Traveling During The Pandemic

I know there are lots of opinions and feelings about traveling right now, and I understand both sides. I also know some of you are judging me for traveling and that's OK, I had moments of hesitation myself.

In June I booked a trip for July to South Dakota. COVID-19 cases were low in both the state I reside in (Kentucky) and South Dakota, and my plans were to visit national parks which would be easier to be socially distant than some other alternatives.

The hotel offered free cancellation up until the day of arrival, and the rental far company offered the same thing but for a higher price of course. The airline offered one free change fee so I felt better about taking the financial risk.

I flew on American Airlines, which I never do, but they were the airline offering the cheapest flight. Then the week before my trip they announced that they would begin booking flights at full capacity. I felt a little nervous about that, but also remembered that American requires all passengers to wear a mask which made me feel *a little* better. Two of my flights weren't completely booked and they did move passengers around (myself included) to distance us a little more. There were also several reminders on the flight to keep your mask on.

I brought extra masks just in case someone needed one. I told you all, I come prepared! I know the airlines say they have some to give out, but I really just wanted to make double sure that people were respecting each other and wearing one. Especially if that person ended up sitting close to me either at the gate or on the plane. I also used disinfectant wipes on every flight even though the planes are supposed to be cleaned more frequently. There was no food or beverage service, but drinks were available upon request. I didn't see anyone request a drink on any of my flights.

At every airport (Rapid City, Louisville, Chicago O'Hare), most passengers kept their masks on while walking around and while sitting at a gate. People sitting at the few restaurants that were open did not. I didn't experience any flight delays due to disinfecting the planes in-between flights, nor did I see any unruly passengers. All in all, the flight was almost normal really.

If you decide to travel I would highly recommend checking the cancellation/change policies for your hotel, rental car and flight, because even though this pandemic feels like the new normal, rules and regulations can still change very quickly, and how big of a drag would it be to have spent your money and then not get to travel or get a refund? Also, don't be that person who delays the flight because you won't wear a mask. It sucks for all of us, but that's the choice you make if you decide to get on an airplane right now.

#tips