With travel restrictions now lifted due to the successful roll-out of various COVID-19 vaccines, year-end holiday travel will likely increase significantly in 2021. That means a lot of travelers can benefit from a refresher course on holiday travel in advance of what promises to be an especially popular year to head home for the holidays.



Plan and book early. The demand for travel spiked considerably in the summer of 2021, as millions of fully vaccinated individuals once again felt comfortable going on vacation. That demand figures to be just as high if not higher this holiday season. Holiday travelers who don’t want to be overcome by such sticker shock or priced out of going home this holiday season can make their plans and book their flights, auto rentals and hotel rooms as early as possible.

Research potential restrictions. Domestic travelers may not experience many restrictions when traveling this holiday season, but that may not be the case for international travelers. Social distancing guidelines and travel bans may be instituted as variants of COVID-19 spread, so travelers should be aware of such restrictions prior to booking their trips. Travelers concerned about cancellations due to COVID-19 should research their travel insurance options so they can be reimbursed if they ultimately need to cancel their holiday travel plans.

Ship gifts. More traditional issues like baggage costs haven’t gone away, so travelers may need a reminder that shipping gifts from home as opposed to taking them aboard flights or in cramped cars is often a more cost-effective way to get presents from point A to point B. Holiday travelers who intend to ship gifts should begin their shopping early to ensure the gifts arrive on time.

Expect delays. After a slow holiday season a year ago, the travel industry will likely experience a few bumps.