Holiday Travel Checklist

Everywhere we go, the question of what to do for the holidays seems to be on everyone's minds. While some have avoided travel since March, others have taken trips by car or plane to get away, visit loved ones, and more. In a recent Hopper survey, 55% of people who plan to travel for Thanksgiving or the winter holidays say that it will be their first trip since March. If you decide to travel for the holidays and you fall into this category, keep in mind that it will look different this year. While the list of changes may seem long, smart planning can help you pull it off.

Plan Ahead

What to know before booking your trip.

• Research your destination before you go and watch out for coronavirus hot spots

• Consider purchasing flights and hotels with no change or cancellation penalties - keep in mind that current lower risk areas of the country could become hot spots by winter

• Communicate early and often with whomever you plan to visit, and have a plan b in case you need to find alternate accommodations

• Review updated airline policies and consider which ones are blocking seats for social distancing, and whether that is a priority for you

• Keep track of the best time to buy airline tickets and book when you can; newfound flexibility means you can change your flights or use a flight credit later as needed

Before You Go - Packing Checklist

Make sure you have these items easily accessible during your trip.

• Hand sanitizer - the TSA now allows up to 12oz in your carry on, so don’t worry if you can’t find a normal travel sized bottle for your flight

• Masks - required in airports, on board the plane, at gas station bathrooms and rest stops, and in most hotels (bring extra so you can replace them throughout your time away)

• Disinfecting wipes or alcohol spray - to wipe down plane and hotel surfaces

• Disposable gloves - if you can find them, these are a great way to remind yourself and your kids not to touch your face

• Snacks - many airport and hotel concessions are closed or have limited hours, so come prepared, especially if you have kids in tow

On The Go

Simple solutions for staying safe on the road and in the skies.

• Wear your mask in public, as recommended by the CDC

• Maintain social distancing where possible

• If you’re flying, turn on your individual vent to filter the air going directly to your seat

• Once on board the plane or at the hotel, wipe down all surfaces that you might touch (that includes oft-forgotten tray tables on the plane and remote controls at the hotel) 

• If you’re traveling with kids, remind them not to touch anything they don’t need to at the airport, on the plane, or at road trip pit stops

• Wash your hands with soap and water once you get to your destination, and remember to not touch your face