Travelling with Family in a Post-COVID World: Essential Tips

Traveling with my family has always been a rewarding yet challenging experience that I look forward to every time. Since the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way we live and move, family travel has undergone significant changes. From new health protocols to shifting destination popularity, families must adapt to a new travel landscape. This post explores the key updates and practical tips for families planning trips today, helping you travel smarter and safer.

Health and Safety Protocols Are Here to Stay

Even as restrictions ease worldwide, health and safety and cleanliness remain top priorities for family travelers. Many airports, airlines, and hotels continue to enforce measures such as:

• Mask requirements in crowded indoor spaces

• Enhanced cleaning and sanitation routines

• Availability of hand sanitizers and contactless services

• Proof of vaccination or negative COVID tests for entry to certain countries or venues

  
  

Families should check the latest guidelines for their destination and transit points before booking. Some countries still require quarantine or health declarations, so planning ahead avoids surprises.

Flexible Booking Policies Make Travel Easier

One positive change since the pandemic is the rise of flexible booking options. Airlines and hotels now often offer:

• Free cancellations or changes up to a few days before travel

• Vouchers or credits for postponed trips

• More lenient refund policies

  
  

This flexibility helps families manage uncertainties, such as sudden illness or changing travel restrictions. When booking, look for options labeled “flexible” or “refundable” and consider travel insurance that covers disruptions.

Choosing Family-Friendly Destinations Has Shifted

The pandemic influenced where families want to go. Many now prefer:

• Outdoor and nature-focused destinations like national parks, beaches, and rural retreats

• Less crowded places to maintain social distancing

• Locations with good healthcare infrastructure

  
  

For example, families are exploring national parks more than ever, enjoying hiking, camping, and open-air activities. Internationally, countries with strong safety records and clear entry rules attract family travellers.

Transportation Changes Affect Family Travel Plans

Travel modes have adapted to new health concerns:

• Air travel has rebounded but with new boarding procedures and limited in-flight services while regularly changing

• Many families opt for road trips, direct flights to control their environment and avoid crowded airports

• Train travel is regaining popularity in some regions due to less hassle and more space

  
  

Families should prepare for longer wait times at security and customs, and pack essentials like masks, sanitizers, and snacks to stay comfortable.

Technology Plays a Bigger Role in Travel Planning

Digital tools help families navigate the complexities of post-pandemic travel that significantly help my family during travel:

• Apps provide real-time updates on flight status, health requirements, and local restrictions

• Contactless check-in and mobile room keys reduce physical contact

• Virtual tours and online booking platforms make research easier

  
  

Using these tools can reduce stress and streamline the travel experience for families. Also, consider when travelling- to protect data, encrypt devices, use strong passcodes, back up data, and consider using a "burner" phone with minimal information.

Packing Tips for Families in the New Travel Era

Packing now involves more than clothes and toys. Consider adding:

• Extra masks and hand sanitizer for each family member

• Portable disinfectant wipes for surfaces (my go-to always for hotel rooms, airplanes, train or bus rides, etc)

• Health documents organized in a digital folder and/or printed copies

• Comfort items for longer waits or unexpected delays

  
  

Packing smart helps families stay prepared and comfortable throughout their journey.

Managing Travel Stress with Kids

Travel can be stressful for children, especially with new rules and longer waits. To ease this:

• Explain safety measures in simple terms before the trip to kids

• Bring entertainment like books, games, or tablets with headphones

• Plan breaks during travel for stretching and fresh air, water break

• Keep snacks and water handy to avoid hunger-related meltdowns

  
  

Being proactive helps families enjoy their trip despite the extra challenges. Families with kids or individuals with invisible disabilities may want to consider the Sunflower lanyard at Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Billy Bishop (YTZ) airports.

Accommodation Choices Reflect New Priorities

Families now look for accommodations that offer:

• Private spaces such as vacation rentals or family suites

• Enhanced cleaning protocols and visible hygiene practices

• Flexible cancellation policies

• Amenities that support health, like air purifiers and contactless services

  
  

Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have seen increased demand from families wanting more control over their environment and may have stricter cancellation policies, generally higher service fees, and less diverse, less unique inventory.

Staying Informed About Changing Travel Rules

Travel rules can change quickly. Families should:

• Follow official government websites for the latest updates- in Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

• Sign up for alerts from airlines and travel agencies

• Use apps that track COVID-19 restrictions worldwide

  
  

Staying informed helps avoid last-minute disruptions and ensures compliance with laws.

Budgeting for Family Travel Post-Pandemic

Costs have shifted in some areas:

• Some destinations offer discounts or incentives to attract tourists such as "kids stay free"

• Flexible bookings may come at a premium

• Health-related expenses like tests and/or travel insurance - consider adding to the budget

  
  

Families should plan for these factors and look for deals or packages tailored to family travelers.

Want More Help with Your Family Travel Plans?

Feel free to contact me when you want to consider and book a family getaway! maria@roundbrilliantravel.ca