Here are 5 tips for family travel in 2021 as the pandemic levels off and the number of cases decreases, we’re ready to be on the road again visiting family. What needs to be considered as we choose and decide the things to see and do on our next getaway.  Here are our top 5 tips to consider for family travel in 2021.

Hotel vs. Airbnb – The reasons remain the same for choosing one over the other.  Hotels give you a brand that’s known, standards that are regulated and pricing that is competitive.  Short Term Rentals greatest advantage is savings; especially when families are traveling together.  It’s less expensive to share a rental home for six people than hotel space for six.

Over the last couple of months Airbnb has become a popular choice for social distancing, limited exposure and having a sense of sheltering in place.  With the popularity in Airbnb more people are considering becoming a host and purchasing a home or using their present home as a short term rental. Airbnb said rental bookings jumped 52% in the first quarter from the same quarter last year.

Surprisingly more hosts and homes on the market is not necessarily translating into happy renters.  Airbnb customers are complaining about excessive fees and host-house-rules for their rental homes.  Some renters on social media are actually calling the hosts and their rental rules outrageous.  One issue is around more concern about cameras popping up and not trusting where cameras may be located in the house.  Another complaint is the increase in Airbnb fees and Airbnb collecting taxes.  What was once an inexpensive option for accommodations is now equal to or more than a hotel stay.

Airbnb has put in place stringent rules around gatherings and parties due to complaints by hosts. This one change provides security for hosts and their property, but puts a big halt on the many parties that were once a common occurrence in Airbnb rentals.  Damages, complaints from neighbors, arrest and injuries were a huge problem for hosts having to deal with the outcome of parties along with the costs of clean up and repairs.

Families heading out for vacation will need to closely compare accommodation options.  Hotels fees related to city occupancy taxes, resort fees, wifi fees, parking and the cost of restaurant meals could keep hotels a second choice for families.

Short Term Rentals with additional fees and tough rental rules, are still edging out hotels in the post pandemic era of travel.  Renters should ask questions of hosts to ensure they have a full understanding of the house rules and get a better idea of the personality of their potential host.  Short Term Rentals are based on trust.  Most people think it is only about the renter trusting the host; but hosts are also evaluating and considering all inquiries and must trust they are making the right decision with each guest.

Road trip vs. flight– What’s your level of anxiety?  Answering that question can help you decide.  Airports are busy again and waiting in line for TSA, Check In and Boarding is showing limited signs of social distancing.  Being aware of how close someone is standing will be monitored by you and not an airport official.  If you feel any anxiety about standing close, sitting beside or close to others, flying may not be the best option for you at this time.

Anxiety aside, airfares are going up, up and up.  And, once you arrive you may need to rent a car.  Finding one may take more time and early planning. Car rental fees are inching up too.  The old days of car rental are not around right now.  The cost to rent a car might be a little shocking.  Planning ahead also helps with budgeting and ensuring you find the best deal.

Traveling by car continues to be the best way to gather everyone in one vehicle, have fun along the journey and connect with the whole family. Road trip memories are ones that last a lifetime.

While driving saves money, remember to bring along a mask for gas stations that require masks, restaurants and stores also. Be prepared for individual businesses and their COVID requirements.

Use an app like Gas Buddy to help you locate fuel stations. As gas creeps up little-by-little, you can place the costs of fuel top-of the vacation budget. Here’s a list of apps to help with planning and organizing your trip.

Check the COVID mandates and regulations in the locations you are considering. Mandates are lifting, however individual businesses will have their own requirements.  Bring along a mask to make sure you are in good shape if asked to place one on.

When checking mandates, consider all of the businesses and activities you will engage; tour companies, museums, attractions, restaurants, airlines.  Check with them as part of the planning process to see what’s open and what the requirements are.

Your favorite guidebook may not be accurate anymore – Do you have a favorite guidebook for the destination you’ve been dreaming about? While guidebooks have always been a great resource and still are, the pandemic has brought about many changes in the travel world.  Open and close times may be incorrect, locations may have changed, just to name a few things to think about.

The pandemic was extra hard on the travel industry and businesses have either restructured or closed and opened under another name.  Sadly, in too many cases, they have closed completely.  Especially many small family owned establishments.  Refer to online travel blogs that have  up to date information.  Also, reach out to the tourism boards, chamber of commerce or the city’s website for the latest information.

Start planning early, but confirm before you go.  Planning early has always been a great way to save money and ensure you have time to price check and get the best deal.  As airfares, Short Term Rentals, car rentals and other travel related businesses continue to increase in costs, starting early and booking is  a great way to stay ahead of the increases.  However, it’s more imperative than ever to confirm and check for changes as you get closer to the day you leave. Avoid disappointments and check-before-you-go.

This is the first of three in a series to help you get back on the road traveling with confidence and knowledge.

Next up –

5 Tips For Traveling With Children – setting their expectations in a travel world with limitations

10 Tips For Pets On The Road  – with thorough planning the whole family can relax and have fun (fur babies included)