What Summer Travel Will Look Like This Year

As the temperatures rise and winter melts away, many Americans are eagerly anticipating the summer season. Known for its outdoor activities like hiking, beach trips, and park outings, summer is typically a busy time for family vacations. But is it safe to travel this summer? The answer is a bit complicated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still advises against non-essential travel, even for fully vaccinated individuals. However, as COVID-19 cases decline, this guidance may evolve.

Dr. Emily Johnson, a pediatric infectious diseases expert at Green Valley Health, notes that the safety of travel largely depends on the virus’s prevalence in both your local area and your destination. “As vaccination rates increase and transmission rates drop, the overall risk associated with travel decreases,” she states. Certain activities, like camping, are considered lower risk, while visiting crowded theme parks poses a greater threat.

Is Air Travel Safe?

While many have opted for air travel during the pandemic, the CDC recommends avoiding flights when possible due to potential exposure in airports. “Airports can be crowded, which makes social distancing challenging,” the CDC explains. Though airplanes have advanced air filtration systems, close proximity to others on packed flights can still heighten the risk of COVID-19 transmission. If traveling with family, consider driving to limit contact with others. “When you drive, you control your exposure,” advises Dr. Lisa Green, an internist in Los Angeles.

Staying in Hotels

Hotels have significantly improved their cleaning protocols over the past year, with enhanced sanitization practices in place. However, lodging among other guests still carries some risk. If you choose to stay in a hotel, the CDC recommends wearing a mask in common areas and avoiding crowded spaces as much as possible. Opt for contactless payment and consider dining in your room or outdoors. For added comfort, renting an Airbnb might be a better choice.

Mask Guidelines

Regardless of your travel plans, wearing a mask is essential unless you are in a private space, swimming, or eating.

The Safest Types of Vacations

Destinations vary in safety; outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming are generally safer than indoor excursions or cruises. “The ideal vacation allows for social distancing and mask-wearing,” Dr. Max Turner, an expert in infectious diseases, shares. When traveling with unvaccinated family members, particularly children, taking extra precautions is critical.

Traveling with Children

While healthy children face a lower risk from COVID-19, they can still transmit the virus. “Most children experience mild or no symptoms,” says Dr. Rachel Lee, a pediatrician in Chicago. However, severe cases can occur, and it’s crucial to weigh the risks before deciding on travel.

Who Should Avoid Travel?

Individuals at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should stay home, as should anyone feeling unwell. The CDC emphasizes that minimizing exposure is the best way to prevent the spread of the virus. Those who haven’t been vaccinated may also want to postpone travel until they are fully immunized.

With the evolving landscape of COVID-19, it’s important to stay informed. For the latest updates, the CDC offers comprehensive resources on pregnancy and travel that can help guide your decisions.

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