As Memorial Day weekend approaches, travel is on a lot of people's minds when looking for people looking to take advantage of the 3 day weekend. But this year, AAA says with social distancing guidelines still in practice, this holiday weekend's travel volume is likely to set a record low.
When it comes to travel, this year's Memorial Day weekend and summer vacations will undoubtedly look different.
AAA's Kimberly Schwind says people just might not go as far.
"There's that pent up demand for travel and people are going to want to get out and travel in some way. But they want to go to places that are close to home that they can drive to," Schwind says.
Thankfully here in Ohio, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions.
Like Hocking Hills, which has lodging and private cabins for people to enjoy. But the major hiking trails are still closed.
Amish Country is another easy drive, with places to eat and unique shops to visit.
Plus if you enjoy the water, Lake Erie Shores and Islands is a popular attraction.
"For instance, if you're planning on going to Lake Erie shores and islands they have opened the ferries to and from the islands, restaurants, shops are opening at limited capacity but Cedar Point is still closed, the water parks are closed," Schwind says.
Put-in-Bay is also a popular place to visit, but this year guests should expect changes.
"You can rent a golf cart on Put-in-Bay, you can rent bicycles, again there are increased practices, the bars and restaurants will have limited capacity," Schwind explains.
Schwind says the best advice is to contact the destination ahead of time, to see what's open or closed and if you need to make a reservation.
When it comes to local and national travel, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend that Americans stay home and avoid non-essential travel.
Some travelers are still choosing to fly, following new guidelines.
All U.S. carriers are requiring masks and temperature checks will be required at some airports.
For consumers there's good news and bad news when it comes to air travel, because the number of travelers has dropped by more than 90 percent, airlines are limiting their flight schedules.
But flight prices are down and consumers are protected for cancellations.
"The U.S. Department of State now requiring for domestic flights, if the airline drastically changes or cancels the flight and you don't accept it, you can get your money back," Schwind explains.
When it comes to hotels, cabins, and Air BnB's, lodging is starting to reopen, depending on each state.
"If you're planning on traveling out of state AAA recommends you you check with local authorities and health department in that state, not only for what restrictions are in place but also how COVID-19 has impacted that area," Schwind advises.
With cruise lines, AAA is seeing cancellations through July and August.
"If you do have a cruise or another summer trip planned it may be best to wait, if you wait until the company or cruise line cancels you could take advantage of the best travel refunds or future credits," Schwind says.
Speaking of the future, AAA travel agents say now is the time to start dreaming of a trip down the road. And maybe booking for late in 2020 or 2021.