By Traci Magnus
As of right now, everything is a bit up in the air. We don’t know what the next month will bring as the coronavirus pandemic continues to flare up in certain areas of the country and calm down in others. However, we are hopeful about traveling in the fall. Countless people had to cancel their summer vacation plans as a result of COVID-19, so it’s left many of us itching to get out of town even for a few days. Luckily, it does seem like some traveling may be in the cards for us this September and October. Experts worry that as the weather changes and flu season sets in, coronavirus cases may rise which is why it might be best to get your vacation in at the beginning of the fall before the temperatures drop too low. If you’re keeping your fingers crossed for a getaway this season, check out our update on the latest COVID-19 travel information.
Can You Travel This Fall?
The short answer is possibly. As the summer continues on, many airlines and airports are easing up on some of their more strict travel restrictions, allowing more people to travel for pleasure—not just business. However, international travel is still very iffy as many countries have placed bans and other restrictions on who can enter the country in an effort to prevent a second wave of infections. International travel is also risky right now as things with the pandemic can change quickly and may cause travelers to get stuck in their destination for longer than originally planned.
Instead, we recommend planning a domestic trip to reduce your chances of running into travel issues. If you can plan a road trip to a beach destination and find a Charleston, SC, vacation rental or another coastal destination, you’ll have tons to do during your trip as these types of destinations offer many outdoor activities. Making the effort to stay outside and avoid places with large crowds will help keep you safe and prevent the spread even while enjoying your vacation.
Precautions to Take While Planning a Fall Getaway
Check Current Restrictions in Your Destination
During the research stage of your vacation planning, it’s extremely important you look into the current restrictions in your intended destination. Many cities and towns across the country have enforced their own local laws like mask policies or limited hours for bars and restaurants in addition to any statewide policies. It’s essential you’re aware of these restrictions before you head to that location to make sure you’re prepared to follow the rules and to ensure there will be activities you can participate in.
Some parks and hiking trails may still remain closed while public beaches may be open. If you’re looking for a Folly Beach vacation rental, you’ll find plenty of great properties near the water and the town’s restaurants. This area is a great example of a place to travel this fall as Charleston has a mild climate, making it warm enough to head to the beach even in September or October. In addition, there are dozens of other great outdoor activities that allow for social distancing. Other beach destinations as well as mountainous areas are excellent places to travel right now, thanks to the abundance of outdoor adventures.
Option for a Nearby Destination
Although airlines are easing up on restrictions (many are still requiring all passengers to wear masks), there is still a greater chance of catching or spreading the virus in the airport because there are crowds of people and many items people touch all day long. It’s not necessarily unsafe to travel on a plane this fall. It simply comes with a greater risk. It’s up to travellers to determine whether or not they feel comfortable travelling on a plane. If you’re looking for the safest way to travel this season, we definitely suggest a road trip. These kinds of adventures can be just as fun and even allow you to make multiple stops along the way. Pick a place nearby, pack up the car and hit the road for an exciting new journey.
Travel Somewhere with Outdoor Activities
Experts agree the virus seems to be less likely to spread outside because there is more room for people to socially distance themselves and particles are able to scatter and break up more easily in an open air space, making it less likely someone else will breathe in or touch the virus particles. For this reason, it makes sense many people are looking for Charleston, SC, vacation rentals and mountain cabins near hiking trails and other outdoor activities. Beach vacations will be big this fall as places like Folly Beach in Charleston, SC, have miles of shoreline that allow people to keep plenty of distance between them and other beachgoers. As you’re planning your fall getaway, keep this in mind and seek out similar areas.
Research Return Policies
Before you’re ready to book your fall getaway, you definitely need to pay special attention to any return or exchange policies. Right now, many airlines, vacation rentals and Airbnbs have created more flexible rescheduling policies because of the unpredictability of the virus. As we see what happens with the virus over the next few months, there is the possibility you need to cancel or push back your trip. It’s important to know prior to booking what the company’s policy is in terms of cancellations. Most places will allow you to cancel due to coronavirus concerns, but they often offer a credit for the future instead of returning your money. Be sure you’re okay with potentially pushing back your trip before you dish out the money.
Travel Safe This Fall
We know how much everyone is craving a weekend away these days. Although things are still a bit uncertain when it comes to the pandemic, most experts are saying short, local getaways are a go for the fall. Try to avoid planning any big, international trips and stay within driving distance to limit your exposure to others. As you’re planning your trip, look for Folly Beach vacation rentals or other homes on the beach to give yourself a beautiful beach view and plenty of room to social distance.
More from Traci Magnus
- 7 Surprising Facts You May Not Know About South Carolina
- 4 of the Best Historic Attractions in Charleston
- 5 Beach Getaways Off the Beaten Path
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media