Summer Vacation in 2020?

Vacation or not to vacation is a big question in our Covid-19 world.  In Expedia’s Summer Travel Report reveals the priorities and behaviors of Americans wanting to get away.  Expedia used search and demand data along with a national poll of 1,000+ Americans to produce the results below.

• 85% of the travelers are likely to take a road trip this year
• Domestic stays are up 10% year-on-year
• 97% of the stays booked in June were refundable stays, up 20% year-on-year

Who is ready to travel?

• 34% Yes! Already planning
• 28% Likely, not planned yet
• 21% Maybe, it’s a possibility
• 14% No, got other plans

Safety takes priority over price

Flying is still feeling risky to most responders, so road trips are their choice.  Top concerns are:

• 72% Health and safety
• 68% Avoiding crowds
• 60% Budget

Driving time

•  3% 1 – 2 hours
• 20% 2 – 4 hours
• 28% 4 – 6 hours
• 48% 6+ hours

Making a plan

Where to stop.  Before you leave, take some time to determine where to stop for gas, when to drive through large cities, and how long you are going to drive each day.

Where to stay.  Over 52% of road trippers will be staying in hotels and motels.  Plan ahead and ask questions about policies and occupancy rates.  Other choices include family or friends (31%), vacation rentals (28%), and camping (24%).

Get your car serviced.  Car problems on the road isn’t much fun.  Have your car inspected/serviced before you leave. 

Bring some cash.  You’ll need that cash for tips, tolls, and the odd cash one situations.

Don’t forget the food.  Bring snacks and water along with an emergency kit, cleaning supplies, paper towels, valid ID and insurance cards, and a spare car key.

Covid-19 Tips

Our friends at Conde Nast Traveler have some great tips for preparing for your trip.

1. Check the travel restrictions. Stay up to date on federal, state, and local recommendations and restrictions, and check back for potential changes regularly. Make sure you know what your destination, any other destination you might pass through, and your home state and county are asking of travelers. 
2. Talk with your doctor. During the COVID-19 pandemic, immunization rates have decreased, particularly in children, as many kids skip routine check-ups. No matter your age, you should be up to date on vaccines when you travel since there’s always the risk of contracting new diseases beyond COVID-19.
3. Know everyone’s risk status. The CDC notes that those with an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 (including older adults like grandparents and those with underlying health conditions) should limit their travel. In addition to speaking to your doctor about your risk status, consider the condition of those you may visit on your travels as well, including elderly family members.
4. Avoid Corvid-19 hotspots. Choose your destination wisely. Before destinations throughout the world started reopening in May, The World Health Organization (WHO) suggested that rates of COVID-positive tests be less than 5 percent before visitors are welcomed—a rate experts agree creates a safer environment.

Dean and Draper

We hope that you have a wonderful vacation or staycation.  We’re here for you when you have questions about insurance and welcome your call.

Dean & Draper is a Trusted Choice insurance agency representing over 200 insurance companies. For over 36 years we have offered a trusted freedom of choice to our clients.  ContactUs.

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. Dean & Draper Insurance Agency specifically disclaims any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with Dean & Draper Insurance Agency. By providing this information to you, Dean & Draper Insurance Agency does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you.  The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

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Source: Conde Nast Traveler, Expedia