Plan Ahead for Summer Travel

Plan Ahead for Summer Travel

The world is back open again and travelers are enjoying amazing new adventures, experiences and making new memories and global connections.   

​Travel numbers to many destinations are starting to compare and even surpass  pre-COVID numbers and major international events are enjoying great attendance numbers again.

If you plan on traveling this summer it is important to plan ahead as many popular destinations were totally booked up last year with limited availability.

Read on for our suggestions for summer travel planning..

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Save and Plan early and consider using a Travel Advisor

Start Saving Early – Put aside savings every month for your summer travel.

Start Planning Early – Flights, accommodations and car rentals in popular destinations will sell out quickly and pricing and will continue to increase.   For example, it was difficult to find rental cars, private drivers and available tours in popular destinations like Scotland and Ireland last summer for last minute planning and travelers had to change plans to later dates or consider other destinations.      

 Insider Tip - Work with a travel advisor for travel ideas and packages that can save you money, time and hassle.  Book refundable fares and packages in case the pricing or your plans change.  If booking internationally, take advantage of the strong dollar and pre-purchase your travel in U.S. Dollars by using a wholesaler or travel supplier based in the USA. 

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Inclusive cruises offer great value

Consider Inclusive Travel Options for Best Value - Most experts are predicting pricing to continue to increase so consider locking in a good price in advance on inclusive travel options such as all-inclusive resorts,  cruises, escorted tours or inclusive travel packages to stretch your budget and control your out of pocket costs during your trip.     

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Health Restrictions – While most destinations, cruise lines and attractions are open again, some are still requiring proof of vaccination so check on this before you lock in your plans if this applies to you (a travel advisor can assist you with this). 

Don't delay on renewing passports

Renew Passports - Check your passport and if it expires in 2023 you’ll need to get it renewed as soon as possible as many countries require passports to be valid (not expire) at least six months past your travel dates.   US passport processing times are also increasing due to high demand with routine processing now taking 10-13 weeks.  Expedited service has also increased to seven to nine weeks.   Previous processing time for 8-11 weeks for routine and 5-7 weeks for expedited service.
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Link to Passport Information is here:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html

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Be Flexible:  The more flexible you are on dates the better savings and opportunities you’ll have. For example, flying mid-week and Saturday mornings can be less expensive and crowded than other dates. If you can push your travel dates to September or Fall will save even more money. 

Don't forget Travel Insurance in your budget

​Travel Insurance – If cruising and travel internationally, add the cost of travel insurance to your budget to protect yourself and investment since travelers are still getting sick and plans always change.  A good travel insurance policy will provide you options in the case of unforeseen circumstances. 

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Hope this is helpful information.   Travel and new experiences always make you richer so get out the door and have some adventures.  You will not be disappointed. 
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P.S. Travel also makes for a great gift for graduation and milestone events.