Have you already planned your summer trip?

Travelers have been making up for lost time early in 2021, scheduling trips after staying at home in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Travel polls suggest 66% of Americans are planning a summer trip. Of those, about one-third already have made reservations.

After more than a year of being cooped up, Americans are ready to get back out into the world and travel again. So ready, in fact, that travel bookings are skyrocketing for some places and experiences to the degree it’s actually getting hard to book them at all. (If you haven’t heard of the great rental car shortage of 2021, you’re living under a rock, and trying for a weekend vacation rental in some popular coastal towns is downright laughable at this point).

There is still plenty of time to plan and enjoy a wonderful summer trip, if you are willing to be a little flexible.

Start your research now. Even if you aren’t planning to take a trip until late summer, now is the time to do your research. The earlier reservations are made, the better chance you have of getting a decent deal or getting the destination you prefer. You also have a better chance to lock in rates and prevent higher prices.

Be wary of travel scams. Broad internet searches, such as “best deals,” can bring up fraudulent websites designed to rip you off. Also, watch out for phone calls or letters claiming a “free trip” or websites offering prices that appear too good to be true. The vast majority of these are scams.

Get everything in writing. Before making a final payment, get all the details of the trip in writing. This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties and names of the airlines and hotels. Also, review and keep a copy of the airline’s and hotel’s cancellation and refund policies, as well as the cancellation policies of the travel agency or booking site used.

Pay with a credit card. Paying with a credit card provides additional protection if something should go wrong with the travel reservation.

Check for advisories. Planning to travel internationally? Check with the U.S. Travel Association to see if there are any advisories for U.S. travelers.

 

 Have a Happy and Safe Summer!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wilkes Barre Farmers Market – https://www.wilkes-barre.city/farmersmarket

 

Electric City Trolley Excursions – http://www.ectma.org/

 

Pocono Pirate Rafting – https://www.poconowhitewater.com/pocono-pirate-rafting/

 

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – https://www.lgsry.com/regular-schedule