Is traveling safe as the delta variant spreads? Here's what the experts advise

After more than a year, it seemed the coronavirus situation was improving: COVID-19 cases were declining, and countries were reopening to large numbers of Americans eager to travel this summer.

According to AAA Travel, bookings surged by at least 11% compared to 2019, with more individuals planning trips for Labor Day through 2022.

However, with the rise in COVID-19 cases, partly due to the delta variant, many travelers are questioning whether they should cancel their travel plans. To address this, TPG consulted several experts to determine what travelers should know as the delta variant continues to spread.

What makes the delta variant particularly dangerous?

The delta variant is about twice as contagious as earlier strains of COVID-19. Therefore, vaccination rates that used to effectively halt the spread of the virus are no longer adequate. Additionally, because delta is twice as transmissible, a larger number of young people, low-risk individuals, and children are at risk of developing severe symptoms.

The most significant risk lies with those who are unvaccinated. They are considerably more likely to contract the delta variant and can transmit it more easily and at higher viral loads.

This implies that they are far more prone to catch the delta variant and subsequently make others ill.

"Current trends indicate that anyone who is unvaccinated will likely contract delta," stated Dr. Brad Bowman, chief medical officer at Healthgrades (owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures). "Fully vaccinated individuals may also catch and transmit Delta, so it's crucial for everyone to minimize exposure."

Vaccination significantly lowers the risk.

While vaccinated individuals can still contract and transmit the delta variant, the vaccine is highly effective (approximately 95%, according to Dr. Julie Fischer, an associate research professor in microbiology and immunology at Georgetown University) in preventing severe illness.

This allows vaccinated travelers to move around with considerably less risk, particularly when combined with other safety measures like social distancing and wearing masks.

However, vaccination status is crucial for several additional reasons related to travel.

For instance, many destinations—especially international ones—require proof of vaccination for entry. Additionally, more domestic cities are implementing similar requirements for access to indoor venues. Thus, traveling becomes logistically more challenging if you're unvaccinated.

Moreover, certain destinations (both domestic and international) may pose higher risks based on the vaccination rates in those regions.

"This doesn't mean we need to cancel all travel entirely," Fischer explained to TPG. "However, we must remain aware of the transmission levels in our communities and our risk of exposure, particularly in indoor environments."

It's crucial to recognize that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states fully vaccinated individuals can travel domestically with minimal risk. In contrast, they recommend that unvaccinated individuals postpone their travel plans.

Additionally, because vaccinated individuals can still carry the virus asymptomatically and infect others, they should consider who may be at risk. If you find yourself in a setting with unvaccinated individuals lacking the same safeguards, you might inadvertently make them ill.

This applies not only to your travel destination but also upon returning home, which is why effective testing is essential.

Key information regarding COVID-19 testing and travel.

From a logistical standpoint, many international destinations now mandate a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours (or less) prior to arrival. This requirement applies even to vaccinated travelers in some locations, especially as the delta variant continues to spread.

Additionally, all travelers arriving in the U.S. from abroad must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than three days before their journey, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 within the last three months, to board their flight.

With all this testing, you might feel secure about traveling. However, it's important to consider the virus's life cycle.

"Testing is valuable as it can detect individuals who are infected and capable of spreading the virus to others before they board their flight," Fischer noted. "Nevertheless, if you were exposed within those 72 hours before flying, you could still pass the virus to others three to five days later."

This is why the CDC advises even fully vaccinated travelers to get tested three to five days after returning from international trips. Fischer also suggests testing during that time frame if traveling domestically in crowded areas or COVID-19 hotspots.

Updated mask guidance for travelers.

While masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other public transport, as well as in U.S. transportation hubs like airports, many places have lifted their mask mandates.

However, experts agree that it's wise to wear a mask in indoor or crowded settings. The CDC has recently revised its mask-wearing guidelines, recommending that everyone wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status, in areas experiencing high COVID-19 transmission rates.

"Masks should be prioritized on your packing list since regulations and recommendations can differ greatly depending on the location," stated Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a comment to TPG. "Additionally, pack disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and a thermometer to safeguard and monitor your health."

Fischer highlighted that N95 masks are exceptionally effective in preventing the spread of the virus. If N95 masks aren't available, cloth masks with filters or double masking can also significantly lower the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Dr. David Edwards, the inventor of FEND (a drug-free nasal hygiene spray) and an innovative aerosol scientist, advised travelers to consider a set of questions to assess their risk and determine the necessity of wearing a mask.

"Is there adequate air circulation in the vehicles, buses, trains, planes, and stations you'll be using?" Edwards inquired. "Is the social setting one that mandates vaccines and/or masks? Additionally, consider the duration and closeness to others—prolonged close interactions are far riskier than brief encounters. The answers to these questions help define the level of risk involved."

He further stated, "Steer clear of anything that increases the likelihood of airborne viruses entering your lungs."

The CDC has indicated that universal masking during travel, coupled with the airflow and filtration systems on airplanes, significantly reduces the spread of most viruses and germs during flights.

Traveling with children.

Families with children who are not yet eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine face extra hurdles.

The CDC advises that children should adhere to the same guidelines as unvaccinated individuals. This includes opting for safer travel methods like road trips or direct flights. Moreover, families should steer clear of crowded places and limit close contact with unvaccinated individuals in their households.

"I still recommend masking children indoors and promoting outdoor activities for all unvaccinated kids," said Dr. Dyan Hes, medical director at Gramercy Pediatrics, in an interview with TPG. "If you're traveling with kids, verify your school's policy on travel and re-entry. Additionally, ensure you pack masks, including high-quality surgical masks or even N95s for flights."

Keep in mind that all individuals over the age of 2 must wear masks on airplanes and in airports.

Essential tips for safe travel.

Given the high transmissibility of the delta variant and the fact that vaccinated people can still spread the virus, achieving zero risk while traveling is unattainable. However, experts suggest several strategies to minimize that risk.

Explore alternative modes of transportation.

Can you opt for driving instead of flying? If flying is necessary, are there options for choosing less frequented routes?

Steer clear of crowded areas.

Large crowds are known to facilitate virus transmission. Therefore, it’s best to avoid big gatherings, whether indoors or outdoors. Practicing basic social distancing is essential.

Choose outdoor activities.

In general, being outdoors significantly lowers your risk of contracting and transmitting COVID-19 due to natural ventilation and greater ease of social distancing. Whenever possible, select activities that occur in open air settings.

Wear a mask.

Experts now recognize that wearing masks is highly effective in minimizing the spread of the virus. Even if there isn't a mask mandate in place, it’s advisable to wear one indoors and in crowded settings. For those unvaccinated or with unvaccinated children, consistent mask usage is essential.

Get tested regularly.

Even if you are vaccinated and considered low risk for illness, you can still transmit the virus to unvaccinated individuals. Therefore, it's advisable to get tested three to five days after traveling if you'll be in contact with someone at higher risk.

Key takeaway.

"In the end, the decision to travel and the manner in which you do so is highly personal," stated Hall. "Given the delta variant, Americans continue to travel and can do so safely by taking appropriate precautions. Travelers should adhere to CDC recommendations regarding vaccines, mask usage, and other guidelines to safeguard themselves and those around them."