The Coronavirus pandemic has forever changed our world, and no industry has been changed more than the travel industry. Airlines have gone bankrupt, travel companies have laid off countless employees, and empty hotels became temporary hospitals.

We are all ready for things to return to normal and are anxious to move about the world. We don't know when travel will recover completely, but before the flood gates open, you need to have a plan so that you are ready when it does. Here are a few tips to consider before paying the outlandish prices we know are coming and getting in line with everybody else: 

Track Flights

Think about where you want to go and begin your research with Google Flights. Once you put in your desired destination, Google Flights will track every flight over $300, giving you an idea of how high or low these prices are. It will also track the history of the prices of these flights compared to what they have been in the past. 

https://support.google.com/travel/answer/2475306?co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid&hl=en

Southwest allows you to switch at the last minute from one US location to another US location for no additional fee. A real plus if you decide to extend your vacation to visit family or friends while you're out and about. 

Do You Have the Right Credit Cards?

Finding the right credit cards is difficult at first, but once you get into it, it's not hard to gain traction. Some cards give you a mile for every dollar spent. Many people travel only using their card miles. To earn miles fast, use your card for everyday items like daycare, groceries, gas  – then pay off the card balance with your debit card, or even by making monthly payments. Some cards give you more flexibility, rewards, insurance or protection while you're traveling outside of the US. 

Have You Heard of the Trusted Traveler Program?

US Customs and Border Protection offers a global entry option. It requires a $100 non-refundable fee and in-person interview, along with a lot of the same items you need to get your passport. Once approved, you receive the benefits for five years. (After five years, you will have to re-enroll.) Some benefits you will receive:

• For re-entering into US airports, you can just check in at the Global Entry kiosk which keeps you moving - saving you two hours or more in lines

• Faster entry into other countries

• TSA pre-check, meaning no paperwork or long processing lines

• Some credit cards will actually reimburse you the $100 fee

https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/how-apply

Refunds

Book hotels that will allow free cancellations. If at some point you are unable to travel, or there is another COVID19 recurrence, you will not be at a loss. 

Handy Hacks 

Make a list of the WIFi passwords to the airports you'll be in ahead of time: 

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1Z1dI8hoBZSJNWFx2xr_MMxSxSxY&ll=40.64131110000006%2C-73.77813909999997&z=8

Go Incognito

Browse through your travel plans in INCOGNITO. Don't do any searches without doing this!

https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95464?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en

Airlines store your cookies, giving them information about your travel plans and leverage to raise their prices. 

Order Ahead

At Grab.com you can order any menu items at the airport you are going to. Your order can be ready for pick up as you breeze your way through to your gate. No lines, no waiting and you get fresher food!

Label Your Luggage "FRAGILE"

 Luggage labeled "Fragile" is usually put on top of the piles, which also means first one out.