Morning people, now’s your time to shine.
Good news for those of you who prefer those early-morning flights, the sun is back on your side (unless you’re in Hawaii or Arizona). We love an extra hour of sleep when Daylight Savings ends, but if you’re still playing catch up on sleep, might as well catch up on travel news, too.
The pre-check
Between the US border reopening, airport traffic, COVID vaccines for kids, some places to avoid and changes from a certain cruise line, here is the latest on travel news for your week.
- Who’s ready to pack their bags.
Us when we see a spider in the house and international travelers. As of Monday the 8th, the US opened its doors to fully-vaccinated visitors for the first time in 18 months. Great news for those who were waiting to be reunited with loved ones after nearly 600 days – and just in time for the holiday season. - Speaking of a packed airport…
Something we’re going to see a lot more of in the coming days and weeks. According to USA Today, you can expect delays for international travel this week as many airlines are prepping for full planes. Want to get through the gate in time? Try arriving 3 hours early. - Ready for some family fun?
Be sure to pack snacks. With the recent approval of a COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, many families are booking flights for the holidays and into 2022. For many, this is their first time flying in over 2 years. - Hoping for smooth sailing.
Last week, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced that its vaccine requirements will remain in place for the foreseeable future. As there have been ongoing concerns about spreading COVID-19 onboard, the cruise line will continue to require passengers and crew to be fully vax’d two weeks before departure and flash their vaccine card prior to boarding. - Where to tread lightly.
Not just the topic of politics at the dinner table. This week, the CDC came out with a report on high-risk destinations, including the Netherlands, Luxembourg, the Cayman Islands and the Faroe Islands. Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in these areas, it might be better to press pause if you planned to visit these places soon.
Trending travel
Here’s what’s trending according to our data and how it can help you make the most of your trip.
Turkeys can’t fly, but you certainly can.
With approved COVID-19 vaccines and recent international border openings, there’s no doubt that flying this Thanksgiving is going to look different from last year. We want to help you gear up for the airport in time for Turkey Day.
Here’s what to do and expect when flying in for Thanksgiving.
Our advice? Follow these tips.
- Check flight requirements. Read the guidelines for the airlines that you chose for your Thanksgiving flight needs well before your departure. That way you can plan for any COVID-19 tests, mask mandates and other important updates you may need to know before you even pull out your suitcase.
- Leave earlier. We’re all excited to be reuniting with family and friends this Thanksgiving, but many others are feeling the same way. With airlines and TSA potentially being short-staffed, plan for traffic in the security line and on the tarmac.
- Pack patience. With the recent trend of flights getting canceled, here’s your reminder to treat the airport staff (and everyone, really) with kindness. Travel restrictions are constantly changing and we’re all still navigating these recent changes. When in doubt, take a deep breath and remember we’re all just trying our best.
- See what’s open. Though many airport vendors might have been closed in the past year, we expect more businesses will be open – such as bars and restaurants. We love a good pre-flight drink.
- What’s on the bev cart. Speaking of drinks, many airlines will not be selling hard liquor in economy, but it varies quite a bit versus what’s served in business or first class. That being said, a majority do still have wine and beer as part of their in-flight offerings. Take a look at this article for more details.
Tricks of the trade
Where we share stories, tips or hacks that might’ve been missed in your usual content feed.
People spending up to $276/avg on family members this holiday.
According to a report this week by CNBC, Americans are going all-out with the holiday gifts. Whether it’s the excitement of seeing loved ones for the first time in a while or just getting into the spirit, those surveyed expressed some serious numbers on present spending. And since little Bobby Sue will love that flashing robot for all of 20 minutes before it’s abandoned – we have a much better idea on how to spend your cash.
Based on our data, here are 10 destinations you can fly this December for $276 or less*
1. Long Beach, CA – Average flight price $273
2. Houston, TX – Average flight price $262
3. Denver, CO – Average flight price $262
4. St. Louis, MO – Average flight price $256
5. Austin, TX – Average flight price $254
6. Fort Lauderdale, FL – Average flight price $253
7. Atlanta, GA – Average flight price $247
8. Myrtle Beach, SC – Average flight price $245
9. New Orleans, LA – Average flight price $241
10. Miami, FL – Average flight price $240
Social shoutouts
Special shoutout to @wallsofsunflwrs for this tweet – they say not to run away from your feelings, but what about flying?
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Links in this Newsletter are for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with KAYAK Software Corporation whatsoever.
*Methodology: KAYAK US searches were considered for round trip, economy flights from 10/9/21 – 11/8/21 for travel dates 12/1/21-12/31/21.
