If you are thinking of making holiday travel plans this year, here are some things to think about.
Are you flying? If so, book your flights as soon as you can. This means in the next day or two. Seriously. You have probably read about current flights being disrupted and those have the potential to disrupt your holiday travel plans even more. Last minute flight changes seemingly happen regularly, prices increase as we get closer, and more families just want to travel.
Where are you staying? If your holiday travel plans include Airbnb or VRBO instead of hotels, these companies have already begun to sell out in some popular vacation sites.
If you plan on venturing outside the US, check your passport. If you need to renew it plan on about 16 weeks turn around time. Same goes for a new one. Expedited service is no better. Think about where you are going. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months at the time of travel. Check your expiration date before you make those holiday travel plans.
Do not forget about COVID-19 restrictions. Check, check again, and check once more for any testing and quarantine requirements before you finalize any holiday travel plans. Each country has its own requirements, even if you are just passing through on a connecting flight. Be sure to check closer to your departure date as well. You may need a digital health pass like France requires. You should have copies of your tests, vaccinations, etc. Make several copies to be safe.
Also, remember the US still requires a negative COVID-19 test for all returning passengers entering, over the age of two.
If you plan on taking gifts on a flight, remember you cannot take wrapped gifts. TSA will probably inspect them. It would be best to ship them in advance.
Be sure to check out my posts on packing, packing lists, and what to take. Travel safely this year, wherever you go. https://travelsandescapes.net/category/travel-tips/packing-travel-tips/