The Future of US Travel

While the pandemic has derailed many of our vacation and travel plans, it doesn’t have to prohibit them completely. Many families are adapting to this new normal by including creative, simplified travel into their families’ vacation itineraries. A recent article in National Geographic, Here are 8 ways travel will change after the pandemic, explores experts’ opinions on how Covid-19 will affect American’s travel plans in the future. The experts agree that travel is going to change, that is inevitable; however, the change can be a positive experience for families that embrace each challenge and plan accordingly. After all, travel and vacation is a necessity for our mental health and well being. “A 2013 survey of 483 U.S. adults found that travel improves empathy, energy, attention, and focus. Planning a trip is just as effective—a 2014 Cornell study showed that looking forward to travel substantially increases happiness, more than anticipating buying material goods,” according to the article. So, get out your maps and utilize the following tips to start planning your next family adventure.

Think Closer to Home

Traveling doesn’t need to include expensive plane tickets. Road trips are safe, inexpensive ways to discover unique cities nearby. You can choose a new city each month to check off your list. When you cross city or state borders, get out and make it a big moment by capturing a family photo. You can discover local hiking or biking trails, taste new foods, explore each city’s landmark, and pop up a tent or stay in a local bed and breakfast. While safety regulations are mandated, your family can relax and enjoy the fresh air wearing a mask and social distance as needed. What’s more, these trips can be done on a weekend, allowing you more time to plan your next road trip. 

If you prefer to stay in your area due to Covid-19 restrictions, don’t let that stop you from planning a family “stay-cation”. Many cities have campgrounds you can rent for $15-50 for a weekend stay. Pack your camping gear: tent, portable grill, flashlights and fishing poles. Explore the scenery, catch and grill your dinner, sit back and gaze at the sparkling stars as the kids roast marshmallows and catch lightning bugs. Even more, your backyard can be quite a different experience if you plan it correctly. You can camp out without having to load up the car! Creating something unique out of the ordinary can be just what your family needs to increase feelings of happiness and joy during these times. 

Start Planning for Future Travel

While Americans are limited in where we can travel abroad, that shouldn’t stop us from planning future vacations. There are numerous U.S. cities that offer fun family activities. This is the time to acknowledge and experience our country’s diversity and culture. Research areas of our vast, beautiful country that you’d like to explore and start planning a weekend or week long vacation. You can choose a location with direct access by one flight making it a simple in-and-out trip. Be sure to check off the notable landmarks, restaurants, and cultural spots you want to explore. In fact, we have some excellent trip itineraries featured here like South Lake Tahoe, Yellowstone National Park, Dollywood (Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, TN), Santa Cruz, and Myrtle Beach. As the National Geographic article describes, the country’s airports are being held to more vigilant safety and cleanliness standards making it more comfortable for Americans to travel to farther U.S. destinations. What’s more, flights are less expensive due to decreased numbers of travelers. The experts believe that U.S. airline travel will be much safer and reasonable for families in the future. By involving your family in choosing which cities to visit and planning your next vacation, you can give them something to look forward to as you go through all the activities you’ll embark upon.

Have you explored any new cities near you? Did you take a road trip to a fascinating destination? What vacation plans have you made for your family’s future? We’d love to hear your feedback and advice. Please connect with us on Instagram @MapsCookingKids or on Twitter @MapsCookingKids. Until next time, agape, be kind, and happy parenting.