Got your shots? Itching to Travel? Great! Here are a few key things to plan for:
Does your destination require a vaccination? There are many destinations open to non-vaccinated travelers. Some may only waive quarantine or testing depending on the type of vaccine. Think about if you want to stay longer and work remotely or if quarantine doesn’t fit into your schedule.
What are the testing requirements for entry and return? Make sure you confirm the test taking window. Is it with in 72 hours or 3 days? Is it based on the departure or arrival flight time? These little nuances can add up to a big headache so pay attention! Also, many clients thought that only the negative Covid test results had to be received with in 72 hour period and were planning to take their tests at the wrong time before we reviewed the guidelines together. Do your research in advance to make sure you can get an appointment for a test and receive the results in the required window prior to travel. Likewise, you need to make an appointment for your negative test to return to the US if traveling internationally.
Some destinations, such as Hawaii, have a list of trusted partners for testing. Double check their Safe Travels site to make sure you’re using an acceptable testing partner.
Is there paperwork you have to fill out prior to departure? Most recently, I’ve had travelers have to fill out forms for Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, and Hawaii. Some will let you begin the application process well in advance of departure while others have a specific window. Others still have a deadline prior to departure by which the paperwork must be submitted.
Is insurance required? Some destinations are requiring that you buy a local insurance, while others are requesting you purchase insurance through various providers. Mostly, they want you to be covered with evacuation insurance should you contract Covid 19 and become seriously ill. I definitely got a few last minute calls on this one. There are plan options that are very affordable that don’t offer cancelation insurance (giving you back the cost of your trip), but do offer only medical and evacuation insurance. I recommended this prior to Covid 19. Trying to get coverage from insurance providers in network is hard enough. I shudder thinking about trying to get reimbursed for an international hospital visit!
Does your passport have 6 months validity from the END of your trip? This one always catches people off guard even when we’re not in the middle of a pandemic. The passport office is currently taking about 12 weeks for regular renewal and 6+ weeks for expedited! That’s longer than regular renewal usually took prior to the pandemic! There’s a backlog from closed offices and reduced staff during the height of the pandemic, combined with a surge of people realizing their passports expired in the last year.
If you have to get a passport for minors, that will take even longer. I called my local passport agency and was instructed to call when they opened the following day. They would then assign an appointment 2 weeks later! (tack that time on to the processing time listed above)
There are lots of nuances, depending on where you plan to travel. They are also constantly changing those rules! Keep checking those requirements right up until departure so you don’t get caught off guard. Also, be prepared for snags. Even though the country changed the requirements, the airline personnel may not be up to date. It’s always good to have the information printed or on your (fully CHARGED) phone to show them for reference. These are uncertain times. Everyone is doing their best and positive attitude will help you avoid stress and encourage others to help you when speedbumps pop up.
Safe Travels!