There is no doubt that travel is still off most people’s list for now. Even with the vaccine in sight, nothing happens quickly, and jumping on a plane to a dream destination may not be prudent or viable. However, hope is in sight, and it’s fun to dream of your next big trip. In the meantime, here are a few post-pandemic travel etiquette tips to keep in mind. It will make your wait seem less like a fantasy and more like a real possibility for the future.
Post-Pandemic Travel Etiquette
Enroll in the TSA Precheck Program Now
Standing in a long security line is never fun and having to take off your belt, shoes and jewelry is a big hassle. You also don’t have to put your liquids or laptop in separate bags and bins. TSA Precheck is a great way to bypass the hassle and advance the airport security procedure. You can simply apply online and schedule an in-person visit. During the pandemic, TSA has launched the “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” campaign, which encourages protective measures at security checkpoints to make the screening process safer for passengers and employees. One thing I found interesting is TSA is giving a temporary exemption from the 3-1-1 rule, allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in their carry on bags. These containers will need to be screened separately, adding some time to your screening, but the wait is worth it.
Use a Travel Advisor
You may not have considered using a travel agent pre-COVID-19 but there is value in considering it post-pandemic. Rules, restrictions, flight cancellations and unexpected delays may likely be part of life as we return to a new type of flight travel normal. Peace of mind will be a factor when working with someone who can coordinate your travel itinerary and put the various legs of your trip together. Knowing you can call them if there is a complication is worth your peace of mind.
Enroll in STEP
A program to be aware of in the future if you plan to travel abroad is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service allowing U.S. citizens (and nationals) traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The benefit is that you will be contacted in an emergency, whether it is a natural disaster, civil unrest or family emergency. It also allows family and friends to contact you if there is an immediate need. Do your research so you will be familiar when you start making your plans.
Update Your Travel Checklist
You may have previously used a simple list or have followed an elaborate plan you keep in a special book to keep track of what to pack on your trips. Now is the time to update your emergency contact list, ensure your health and travel insurance are current and add a few more items to your checklist. Masks are not going away, nor is the need for hand sanitizer, tissue, lip balm and a few extra changes of clothing. Bring your own pen in the event you have to sign a credit card receipt. Invest in a good set of earbuds to enjoy your in-flight movie and use them now for work and exercise. Getting small details in order will alleviate the rush when you are finally able to travel (without hesitation) in the future.
You may also like Create Your New Year’s Goals in Color. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.
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