Last Updated on April 21, 2021 by travelingwithsunscreen
The year 2020 will go down in the books as the year the world stopped. Almost every nation went into lockdown around the same time and even local travel halted. Like most of the world, you may be feeling a little stir crazy and ready to leave the bubble you’ve been in.
As the news of a vaccine came on the scene and the most vulnerable are building some immunity, travel is seeming more and more possible. With no global pandemic, travel requires planning. But during a pandemic, there are even more considerations that come into play.
Jessie from Soulful Travel shares some information and budget-friendly advice to consider if you’re seeking some much-needed adventure.
Next Stop…
While there’s great progress being made regarding COVID-19, many areas of the world, including within the United States, are still suffering from high positive test rates, hospitalizations, and death rates. Due to such numbers, certain areas restrict travel from visitors by either requiring a quarantine period, an affidavit of health, or negative test results upon entry.
As you book your travel plans, keep in mind that cancellations or rescheduling may be required. Therefore, you may want to plan for alternate destinations. It’s also a good idea to purchase travel insurance. While it takes a chunk of your travel budget, it can prove cost-effective if your plans fall through. Keep in mind that there are more considerations for travel insurance during the pandemic than usual! Make sure, for example, that your pandemic travel insurance includes “cancel for any reason” coverage.
Accessorizing (COVID-Style)
Along with understanding current travel restrictions and remaining flexible with your plans, you want to make sure you have all the supplies you need to protect yourself and others during travel. Fortunately, there aren’t many things you need: face masks, wipes, and hand sanitizer will go a long way in helping to keep yourself and those around you safe and healthy.
Hittin’ the Road
When it comes to safe, budget-friendly travel, it doesn’t get any better than road trips. Traveling in a vehicle is also the best way to see the most sights and go on the most adventures, and it helps you avoid some of the risks of air travel or train travel. Whether you take a trip across the state or the country, you’re likely to have plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation, especially if you take your time. Here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you have a blast on your road trip while staying within your budget:
- Stay in short-term rentals. When you lodge at a short-term rental, such as an Airbnb, you’ll get more privacy and amenities than you would at a hotel. And you’ll pay less.
- Rent an RV. If you want the ultimate road trip experience, this is the way to do it. You have everything you need for comfortable lodging in an RV, and you don’t have to worry about booking a room or house at every stop. Can you say freedom?!
- Pack food and drinks. Dining out will eat your budget. Load the cooler with sandwiches, non-perishable snacks, and drinks. That way, you don’t have to dine out every meal.
- Avoid big cities. Lodging and restaurants tend to be more expensive in big cities. Pass through to sight-see, but stay the night outside of the city.
Travel is quite different during a global pandemic, but you don’t have to wait until it’s over to take that vacation you’ve been planning. Keep up to date on any current travel restrictions, and make your plans adaptable. Stock up on any safety accessories you need, and save money by implementing the tips above. Here’s to an awesome, COVID-friendly trip!
Planning a vacation on a budget? Visit Soulful Travel to find new destinations and strategies for budget-friendly travel!
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