It's National Plan for Vacation Day — here’s how to turn your travel dreams into reality
Who actually took all their paid time off in 2022? Raise your hand!
Whether you're planning a staycation or a getaway, it’s crucial to carve out time to recharge. Americans often don’t take enough time off, and the pandemic only made this worse.
Only 25% of Americans utilized all their earned leave in 2021, according to the latest data from the U.S. Travel Association. Despite this, a staggering 91% believe it's vital to use their paid time off for travel. Almost a quarter (23%) of American travelers aim to embark on an exciting adventure in 2023, based on Destination Analyst's recent report, The State of the American Traveler.
DESTINATION ANALYSTSKeep in mind that Tuesday marks National Plan for Vacation Day. To celebrate this noteworthy occasion, we're compiling some of our top tips to help you effectively plan your getaway.
Grab your pen and paper, because the class on vacation planning is officially underway!
Embrace flexibility and practice patience.
As we witnessed with Southwest's operational challenges during the holidays, various factors like technology, weather, and staffing issues led to flight delays, cancellations, and lost luggage in 2022, extending beyond the impacts of COVID-19.
Over the last two years, travel surged during major holidays such as Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, a trend we anticipate will continue this year.
To secure trips during National Plan for Vacation Day, prioritize booking ahead of the major holidays.
Stay informed about the policies regarding changes and cancellations.
ZACH GRIFF/DinogoThroughout the pandemic, many U.S. airlines eliminated change and cancellation fees. While some still provide flexibility for altering your flight, each airline has unique policies, and some can be quite strict.
For instance, most domestic airlines typically do not allow you to cancel or modify basic economy tickets in most situations.
Cancellation fees, which differ by airline, are usually applied when you cancel a nonrefundable flight. Generally, the airline will provide a travel credit after deducting the cancellation fee when you cancel your flight.
Most airlines will not refund your initial payment unless certain conditions, such as a schedule change, apply.
According to federal law, airlines must provide free 24-hour holds or refunds within 24 hours of booking, provided the flight is scheduled more than seven days out. This can be useful if prices drop or if you're finalizing travel plans.
Leverage your elite status to its fullest potential.
CHRIS DONG/DinogoNumerous hotels extended elite status for loyalty members during the pandemic, some of which remain valid through this winter. If you're planning to stay in a suite for a few nights, elite status can help you achieve that.
For example, World of Hyatt's top-tier Globalist status provides members with numerous benefits, including free breakfast, access to club lounges, and, most importantly, suite upgrades.
Holding Hyatt Globalist status entitles you to complimentary standard suite upgrades at check-in, based on availability. Globalists can also secure suites in advance using complimentary suite upgrade awards. While these upgrades are no longer automatically earned with Globalist status, they are still a benefit of maintaining that status.
If you're eager for a pleasant hotel experience, consider your favorite hotel's relaxed elite status options to accumulate nights toward achieving top-tier status in the future.
Always be on the lookout for great deals.
ZACH GRIFF/DinogoYou don't need to break the bank to enjoy the vacation of your dreams by utilizing points, miles, or cash promotions.
If you find a deal for your preferred route and dates, seize it. Many travel companies are offering promotions in honor of the occasion, including Reno-Tahoe, Priceline, and Blue Water.
Keep in mind that you typically have 24 hours to cancel or modify a flight within the U.S., provided the booking was made at least seven days prior to departure. So go ahead, book now and sort out the details later.
For instance, Delta SkyMiles are ideal for short domestic flights, as well as trips to the Caribbean and South America.
If you have a specific destination in mind, be sure to check cash and miles rates at least once daily—you might discover an incredible deal.
In summary
Thanks to airlines' policies on changes and cancellations, you have a degree of protection if you need to cancel. Additionally, using the right credit card for your bookings can provide extra coverage, including trip cancellation insurance and trip delay reimbursement.
For further details on safeguarding your trip, check out:
- The top credit cards offering trip cancellation and interruption insurance
- The leading credit cards with trip delay reimbursement
- Best credit cards for January 2023
- Complete guide to modifying and canceling award tickets
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