Has it been that long since we could find a great last-minute deal and escape on a whim for the weekend? Spontaneous travel opportunities have not disappeared, but our ability to take advantage of them freely is limited. Much has changed in the travel industry over the last couple of years, but one thing remains the same – our commitment to helping plan a seamless and worry-free experience as possible for our customers.

Remember when planning an upcoming tropical trip was relatively worry-free as you shop for a new swimsuit or flip-flops? Well, there’s much more to consider these days like regularly reviewing entry and exit requirements for constantly changing protocols that are announced, sometimes with little warning. Other things to consider include examining travel insurance coverages or quarantine requirements to ensure that all the ‘what if’ scenarios are covered. These considerations are simply an essential adaptation to an enjoyable and worry-free travel experience and your local and trusted Vacation Consultant can help guide you through the details.

Here are five tips and tricks to help you navigate travel waters with confidence:

1. Know before you go.
Your Vacation Consultant can assist you in reviewing all the requirements needed before you go, including testing requirements, quarantine requirements for both arrivals in your destination and for returning home. The government websites and destination tourism board sites also offer valuable up-to-date information for entry and exit requirements.

Wouldn't it be great if we could head to one website that covers all the information in one place? Wait, there is! Sherpa is a new online tool that helps travelers and travel planners find out specific and up-to-date travelling requirements anywhere in the world, and your Consultant can help ensure you have all the details you need for a seamless journey

2. Stay flexible.
Many tour operators and hoteliers have offered reduced deposits for booking and as much flexibility in their packages to assist travelers plan in a world of uncertainty. Read through the terms and conditions carefully to know what you book and understand your options should you need to change or cancel your plans. Flexibility for permitting changes is key to planning with confidence, making the non-refundable deals with restrictions much less attractive than they used to be. Check with your Vacation Consultant for clarity on any of the terms to ensure you have all your bases covered so you’re prepared for anything that may possibly arise during your trip.

3. Be covered.
Travelling without travel insurance is one of the riskiest decisions you can make, even in pre-COVID times and planning your trip without proper coverage is an unnecessary risk that can be disastrous.

However, not all travel insurance plans are created equal. When reviewing your travel insurance needs, know the difference between travel protection, trip cancellation, and emergency medical coverage, as they are all different components that are a part of your overall travel insurance needs.

Since March 2020, COVID-19 has been identified as a "known event" and may not include traditional trip cancellation insurance coverage. Some plans may cover emergency medical costs during your trip, but will it cover quarantine costs in destination due to a positive test result? Tour operator travel protection plans can provide you with trip cancellation options for planning but may not include emergency medical coverage or COVID-related concerns and quarantine costs. Review all your options with your Vacation Consultant, who is licensed and well-versed in the fine print of travel insurance plans to ensure you choose the policy that best suits your needs.

4. Plan accordingly.
Reservations are required almost everywhere you go, whether for restaurants, excursions or many tourist attractions and activities. Gone are the days of just showing up and planning your days "on the fly." Some places may be operating at reduced capacity allowances or reduced hours. Avoid disappointment by making your reservations early so that you can plan out your vacation days. Your Vacation Consultant can ensure that the experiential vacation components of your trip are carefully curated so that you can focus on the fun!

5. Don't forget your mask.
Sunscreen, check.
Hat, check.
Sunglasses, check.
Passport, check.

In addition to the typical tropical vacation packing must-haves, travelers must also pack personal protective equipment such as masks and sanitizer to protect themselves and those around them. And depending on the final destination, proof of vaccination and negative COVID-19 test results may also be required for travelling. While airlines and resorts may offer personal protection tools, it's always a great idea to have extras on hand to stay safe.

And lastly, pack your patience. With new entry requirements everywhere you go, the extra steps to ensure safety require additional time to execute. Lines will be longer at the airport to check in for security, immigration and customs. All those involved will appreciate patience to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.