In the midst of the pandemic, travel ground to a halt. Airlines canceled flights indefinitely, and shutdowns occurred all over the travel industry—hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Nothing was spared, and wanderers’ worst fears were realized: people stopped traveling.
Now, after more than a year, you may be wondering: are people traveling again during COVID-19?
The answer? Yes!
In 2022, travel is finally starting to perk back up again, and more and more people are traveling. But with new airport rules, updated travel restrictions, and more rapidly changing guidelines than ever, you’ll need to arm yourself with more information to ensure your travels stay safe.
If you’re ready to travel, here’s how you can get back to exploring the world. It’s been waiting for you.
Table of Contents
- Is It Safe to Travel Right Now?
- Should I Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
- Where in the World Are People Traveling? 12 Countries That Are Currently Welcoming US Citizens
- Domestic or Worldwide, Next Vacay Finds You the Cheapest Flights to the Destinations You Love
Is It Safe to Travel Right Now?
Traveling amid a pandemic can feel daunting, especially when testing or quarantine requirements and travel recommendations are constantly changing.
Up-to-date information, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), states that fully vaccinated individuals can travel safely domestically and internationally on airplanes and other modes of public transportation.
That said, for the following travelers, the CDC recommends delaying travel until it’s safer to do so.
- Those displaying COVID-19 symptoms
- Those recently diagnosed with or suspected of having COVID-19
- Those who have come into close contact with someone recently diagnosed with or suspected of having COVID-19
Health officials still advise against traveling on cruise ships, regardless of vaccination, because the close quarters inevitable on a cruise ship can lead to a high rate of spread.
If you decide to travel anyway, make sure you’re aware of the risks of traveling on cruise ships. Most cruise lines require travelers to be fully vaccinated to sail, so you’ll need to be up-to-date on all your COVID-19 vaccinations.
Instead of cruising, consider air travel as a safer alternative. For example, almost all planes come equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to prevent the spread of COVID-19 onboard the plane. Another safe option to consider is a road trip across the country or to a national park, where you can spend more time outdoors and come in contact with fewer people.
Even so, if you decide to set off for busier streets, you can still stay safe. Some notoriously popular destinations like New York City and France have vaccine requirements to enter some businesses and enjoy certain attractions.
If you are unvaccinated and traveling, the CDC recommends you continue to wear a mask and practice social distancing to protect yourself and others while you travel.
Should I Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Whether you should travel during the COVID-19 pandemic remains a personal choice, but travel recommendations from the CDC and WHO are available to help inform your decision. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), more and more people are opting to travel again in 2022 as restrictions ease worldwide.
The start of the new decade saw some of the worst numbers for travel in years. An average of 880,000 airline passengers flew per day, and that number was down over 1.4 million from 2019.
Fortunately, things have improved since then. Based on numbers provided by the TSA, including pre-pandemic data, travel is undoubtedly on the rise again, with airports reporting more activity and airlines recording increased passenger traffic.
The travel industry is still far from what it used to be, but one thing is clear. After two years of very little travel, people are eager to see the world again.
Travel Safely: Guidelines for Unvaccinated and Fully Vaccinated People
Guidelines for fully vaccinated travelers are simple and easy to follow. If you’ve traveled at all in the past year, you’ll likely recognize a few of these recommendations.
Reminder: Always remember to check up-to-date information to ensure you’re following the latest practices and keeping your travels safe!
Before Traveling
Before you head out, the CDC recommends checking the COVID-19 situation at your destination and getting tested 1-3 days before departure in order to help mitigate the spread of COVID.
While Traveling
For the duration of your trip, the CDC continues to recommend the following safety protocols to protect yourself and those traveling around you.
- Wear face masks covering your nose and mouth on public transportation.
- Follow state and local requirements and recommendations.
- In high-risk areas with large numbers of COVID-19 cases, wear masks in and outdoors when in close contact with unvaccinated people.
For international travel, remember to check specific country requirements provided by the State Department.
After Traveling
After returning from your travels, the CDC recommends the following steps to ensure your continued health and safety.
- Get tested.
- Self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19; self-isolate and get tested if symptoms develop.
- No quarantine or testing is required, though the CDC recommends quarantine if you were exposed to a person with COVID-19.
Additional requirements for international travel:
- Before boarding your return flight, show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result that is no more than 1 day old.
- You may also show proof of recovery from COVID within the last 90 days.
Where in the World Are People Traveling? 12 Countries That Are Currently Welcoming US Citizens
Feeling that itch to get a new stamp in your passport? You’re not alone. We’ve been doing nothing but dreaming of travel, talking about travel, planning travel … you get the idea.
Several countries have eased their travel restrictions, including destination favorites in the European Union that have been quite strict in the past due to surging numbers of coronavirus cases.
But if you’re wondering where you can go on your next holiday abroad, check out these popular countries that are currently open to American travelers.
1. The Bahamas
Travelers can once again delight in the stunning pink sand beaches and shining blue waters of the Bahamas.
Testing is required, regardless of vaccination status; however, there is no mandatory quarantine period.
Travelers aged 18 and older are required to fill out a Travel Health Visa, the cost of which includes insurance coverage for COVID-19.
2. Belize
Home to the magnificent Belize Barrier Reef, ancient Mayan ruins, and diverse wildlife, this Central American nation that sits along the Caribbean Sea is sure to steal your heart and whisk it away to the deep.
Testing is required for unvaccinated travelers, while vaccinated visitors can skip testing by providing proof of vaccination. As of February 15th, all travelers must purchase Belize Travel Health Insurance.
3. Canada
As of November 8th, 2021, the land border between Canada and the US reopened to leisure travel. Meaning travelers can once again hop across the border to enjoy the liveliness of Canada’s vibrant cities and the breathtaking beauty of its national parks and wilderness.
American travelers must be fully vaccinated for entry via land or air and are required to enter their travel details into Canada’s ArriveCAN app. Unvaccinated visitors are not eligible for travel to Canada, but unvaccinated kids can accompany vaccinated adults into the country.
4. Croatia
Visitors can again return to this idyllic country nestled against the Adriatic Sea. Delight once more in Croatia’s colorful towns, stunning landscapes, and cascading falls.
Croatia’s temporary travel restrictions expired on April 30th, 2022, meaning there are no longer any Covid-related requirements for entering Croatia.
5. Denmark
Savor the little things in life again with a visit to dashing Denmark and revel in the Danish hygge lifestyle of cozy contentment.
As of March 29th, Denmark has removed all travel restrictions in regards to COVID. All travelers, regardless of vaccination status, can now visit.
6. France
France is open to American visitors, which means travelers can again delight in fine French cuisine, delicious wine, and the beautiful historical landmarks that help make it the most visited country in the world.
Unvaccinated travelers can now head to France with proof of a negative COVID test. Fully vaccinated Americans can skip the pre-travel testing with proof of vaccination and a sworn statement that confirms they:
- Don’t have COVID-19 symptoms
- Are not in contact with someone who has a confirmed case of COVID
7. Iceland
Untouched beauty abounds in Iceland, from magnificent falls to glacial lakes and famed black sand beaches. Each trip to Iceland feels like the first time: full of wonder.
Travel restrictions in Iceland have all been lifted. Visitors do not need to meet any COVID-related testing or vaccination requirements for entry.
8. Israel
From Tel Aviv to the Dead Sea and the holy city of Jerusalem, Israel has opened its borders to foreign nationals and American travelers.
All tourists may enter Israel with a negative test. In addition, they must undergo testing upon arrival and quarantine until receiving a negative test result, typically within 4-24 hours.
9. Italy
Famously the birthplace of the Roman Empire, Italy’s historic ruins, unique architecture, and diverse cities offer an enchanting escape.
To enter Italy, American citizens have the option of showing proof of vaccination, evidence of recent recovery from COVID-19, or a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Unvaccinated travelers unable to provide proof of recovery will be required to quarantine for five days and test negative to leave isolation.
10. Mexico
As with Canada, the land border between Mexico and the US reopened to leisure travel on November 8th. Though travelers have been permitted to fly to Mexico, the opening of the land border is a welcome return. This Central American country’s gorgeous beaches, impressive cenotes, and vibrant culture have been sorely missed.
Currently, no travel restrictions, either testing or quarantine, are necessary for Americans to enter Mexico.
11. South Africa
Finally, the rainbow nation is open to American travelers to delight in marvels like the Table Mountain and colorful Cape Town. Incredible history, beautiful scenery, and awe-inspiring wildlife await in this foreign country.
Regardless of vaccination status, visitors must present a negative test for entry or quarantine at their own expense.
12. Thailand
A kingdom of palaces and natural wonders, Thailand is a cultural experience and stunning escape after months spent at home.
Fully vaccinated people are exempt from quarantine requirements through the Test and Go Program by:
- Registering on Thailand Pass (free)
- Providing requested documents, including proof of vaccination
- Providing proof of insurance with coverage of at least $10,000 for medical treatments
- Post-arrival testing is no longer required
Nonvaccinated travelers can either choose to quarantine upon arrival or follow the same steps as vaccinated travelers with the addition of taking a pre-travel COVID test.
Domestic or Worldwide, Next Vacay Finds You the Cheapest Flights to the Destinations You Love
Despite the easing travel restrictions worldwide, many Americans still hold back on travel because of the significant expense between transportation, accommodations, and everything else.
After surviving a global pandemic, the last thing that should hold you back from exploring the world and doing the things you love is expensive travel.
Though certain countries are still closed to travel, many destinations are open to US citizens with full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test. And if you’re not ready to travel abroad just yet, there are still plenty of opportunities for a fantastic vacation right here in the US.
Let Next Vacay help you fly wherever your heart is set, with the cheapest deals on flights to domestic getaways and foreign destinations.
Our team of deal hunters will send the latest flight deals to your inbox, so you never miss incredible savings, and more importantly, never miss the perfect opportunity to travel.
The wait is over … It’s time to make plans for your Next Vacay!
