As Managing Director of Marketing for AAA Northeast, Sandra Marsian has had her finger on the pulse of all the recent changes in vacation planning as the coronavirus pandemic, and its restrictions, begin to ease.
Though the travel landscape seems to be changing almost daily, Marsian shared the most recent tips and advice she could collect as Prime went to press this month.
Here’s what she told us about planning for that summer getaway in 2021:
COVID-19 numbers keep changing, and with them, local and state protocols. How can vacationers know the latest rules at their destinations?
“I am a big fan of directing would-be travelers to AAA.com/CovidMap as it is a great
resource for people to go to so they are prepared for any restrictions in advance. The Map depicts restrictions by state on a user-friendly point-and- click map. This resource is free and available to all.
“If people have special attractions in mind, I strongly urge that they call in advance of their visit. Many attractions have changed their processes and in some instances are not updating their websites as often as they change their policies. Know before you go by calling in advance to see if reservations or tickets are required for entry, and also to understand what, if any, COVID-19 protocols they may have in place, to ensure you are prepared.“
Are there any updated steps travelers should take regarding hotel and plane reservations? What about travel supplies - what should we pack this summer?
“It is easy enough to obtain hotel and plane reservations and it is highly encouraged to prepare in advance. A travel professional can help you properly navigate the ever-changing impact COVID-19 has had on the travel industry. State mandates and CDC guidelines are also ever changing.
“As more and more people become vaccinated we have seen a significant influx in travel bookings for both US travel and beyond. Fully vaccinated international travelers arriving in the United States are still required to get tested three days before travel by air into the United States and a travel agent can help guide you through this process.
“That said, even vaccinated travelers are still required by the CDC to wear a mask on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States, and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations, so you still need to pack some masks. More details can be found on CDC.gov.”
It’s summer, and we know gas prices will start to rise. How can we keep travel costs down? Is this the time to rent an electric or hybrid car for your big road trip?
“Interestingly we always see an uptick in car rentals for the summer travel season and this year is no exception. Many people consider this option if they have an older, less reliable vehicle or if their daily ride is not fuel-efficient. Hybrid vehicles are a popular choice each summer season.
“To help reduce the overall impact of gas prices on your trip, plan your route ahead of time using the shortest route possible. Triptik.aaa.com is a great resource - you can plan your route, note gas station locations, hotels and other useful markers using a mobile device friendly planning tool.
“AAA Members can also save 5 cents per gallon at Shell gasoline locations and to learn more they can visit AAA.com/shell. Using more quality gasoline can positively impact your fuel efficiency. “How you drive, what you take with you and proper vehicle maintenance can all have an impact on your overall fuel efficiency. Some examples of making sure your vehicle is road trip ready include checking your tires for proper inflation and replacing your engine air filter if necessary.
“Traveling light can keep gas prices low. Less cargo improves your overall fuel efficiency. An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel economy up to
1 percent. Eliminating a rooftop cargo rack will reduce drag and improve your gas mileage.
“Driving conservatively by avoiding hard braking, ”jack rabbit” starts and rapid acceleration can improve your fuel economy by 15 to 30 percent. Observing speed limits is not only safe but can
increase your fuel economy by 7 to 14 percent , as fuel economy peaks at around 50 mph on most cars.
“Looking for more tips? Visit www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/how-to-maximize-fuel-economy for more tips on maximizing fuel economy.”