difficult travel conditions

Amid flight cancellations and airport chaos, is it worth traveling right now?

Professor and Director, Ted Rogers School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Toronto Metropolitan University

Professor, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Toronto Metropolitan University

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We all realized the importance of the COVID-19 pandemic when we were asked by the government to stay home in Winter 2020.

When Canadians were given the green light to travel again , the government and media instilled a fear of travelling and many chose not to.

Although we’re not out of the pandemic yet , when it comes to restrictions, things are looking better. Take the EU for example: Restrictions have been dropped , and as a result, international trips increased 182 per cent from 2021 to 2022 for the first three months of the year.

And while some are still preferring to stay at home or avoiding international air travel , many are eager to fly, but are confronted with difficult travel conditions : Flights are delayed or cancelled, people are waiting in line for hours at airports and missing their flights, luggage is being lost and emotions are high.

So, is it worth travelling right now?

Revenge travel and a labour crisis

On one hand, the good news is many people have overcome their fear of travelling amid the pandemic. They long for a time when they could visit other places, or see friends and family they’ve missed these past 30 months.

Revenge travel — a term coined to define people’s need to travel after being deprived of it — and nostalgia for travelling are fuelling people’s return to travel. And Europe is a top destination.

Compared to 2021, Europe welcomed almost four times as many international travellers during the first three months of the year, while the U.S. welcomed more than twice as many.

On the other hand, the travel rebound has met a labour crisis : Employers are struggling to hire qualified people after many left due to pandemic unemployment. The result? Travel chaos.

From lost luggage to missed connections and cancelled flights, airports are struggling. In particular, Toronto Pearson airport has received poor publicity the past several weeks and been ranked “ worst in the world ” for the number of delayed flights (over 50 per cent of all flights) from the end of May until July 19.

Is it going to be fixed anytime soon? Probably not. But airports like Pearson say they are seeing improvements . In the meantime, it’s a safe bet for travellers to get accustomed to paying more for lower quality services.

Plenty of health benefits

But it is still worth travelling. We know how important travel is: We travel to reconnect with friends and family, to escape our normal lifestyles, to discover other landscapes and cultures. And taking vacations is actually good for your health and wellness , even when it’s a short trip !

Travelling has health benefits , like recovering from mental and physical fatigue, improving household relationships and making people happier. Researchers have shown that satisfaction with leisure travel is positively connected to quality of life. And several studies have even shown that international travel restrictions led to unintended negative health and social consequences.

While travel for vacation is recommended, beware: According to air travel specialists, more disruptions are in the cards and more air travel chaos is on its way . The labour issues that are the main reason for the disruptions are unlikely to disappear anytime soon and will continue to affect all tourism sectors, from transportation to hospitality and attractions.

While travellers should not feel discouraged as the benefits outweigh the costs, it may be time to consider alternative, less environmentally damaging forms of travel: closer to home, without flying and favouring domestic tourism as a substitute to international tourism .

The key to a successful trip is to properly plan for it, consider any alternatives that may be needed and be diligent about checking and double checking travel regulations and restrictions — even while on your trip, as they may change.

Make sure you have digital copies of all relevant documents (like your passport, prescriptions and vaccination records) and pack at least a couple of days of clothes in your carry-on (or don’t check a bag at all). Also remember to be respectful of the people and countries you visit (wearing a mask, for example, may be encouraged or required in some countries or public places).

Finally, bring some patience, flexibility and a willingness for adventure.

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12 Ways to Make This Summer’s Travel Less Bad

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Travel is back, but that doesn't mean it's easy (or cheap).

Airport chaos has made headlines more than a few times over the past couple of years, but if you opt to drive, you'll have to contend with soaring gas prices. Plus, hotel prices have hit all-time highs , even though many properties cut some services like daily housekeeping.

Despite all those deterrents, traveling might be non-negotiable. You might have five weddings to attend this year. Then there’s the work offsite to finally meet the coworkers you’ve never met face to face. And now that your youngest kids are vaccine-eligible, you owe them that (expensive) Disney trip they’ve been begging for.

Ah, suddenly the wanderlust you felt when envisioning your dream “revenge trip” back in 2020 has been zapped away, instead replaced by anxiety and plenty of unwanted expenses.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Combine solid planing with a healthy mindset, and you might skip the common problems with traveling. Who knows? This summer vacation might become the best trip ever.

1. Acknowledge your trip won’t be perfect

Go into your trip with realistic expectations. Delays are all but inevitable, and things might be more expensive than you budgeted for. If you go in knowing the caveats, you’ve already set yourself up better to avoid disappointment.

With that, focus on these next tactics that you can control.

2. Book flights with lower odds of a delay

As if traveling wasn't stressful enough right now, it’s impossible to guarantee your flight won’t be delayed, as even a private jet could still be subject to air traffic or weather delays. But certain booking strategies can at least increase the odds of on-time arrival:

Fly earlier in the day before a previous flight can delay your plans.

Avoid layovers if your budget and route allow.

Book with airlines with strong histories of on-time arrivals (Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines rank highest, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics).

3. Apply for TSA PreCheck

One of the easiest airport lines to avoid: the traditional security line. With TSA PreCheck membership, you can access dedicated, often-shorter lines that enable you to flow through faster. Plus, you won’t need to remove your shoes or laptops.

Applying for membership takes time, and perhaps money, too. But carving out time to apply now is likely better than cutting into your precious vacation time by standing in an annoying security line. The application fee is $78, but many travel credit card benefits include TSA PreCheck reimbursement .

4. Don’t check bags

Another line to skip? Bag check. While you can sometimes skip this line by holding airline elite status , the easiest way to skip it and avoid unnecessary travel obstacles is by not checking bags, period.

There are plenty of other reasons to pack light. There’s no risk of checked luggage getting lost if you fly carry-on only, and you won’t have to stand at the baggage carousel on the other end of your flight. And should you need to make a last-minute switch to another flight, you won’t be held back because your stuff is stuck on another aircraft.

5. Do pack a 'delay emergency' kit

While packing light is essential, make space for some essentials to account for one of the all-too-common travel problems: delays or other inevitable travel snafus. Things to include:

Packable snacks: “Hangry” travel can turn a bad trip worse. Jerkies and protein bars are filling, without filling up too much space in your bag. Plus, you’ll avoid long lines at airport cafes.

Portable chargers: If flights are delayed and the airport doesn’t have power outlets, you’ll stay plugged in.

Copies of your passport, COVID-19 vaccine proof and other important records: You might not necessarily need physical copies, but digital copies don’t take any space and might come in handy.

Entertainment: Bring a book or laptop so you’ve got entertainment if you get delayed.

6. Gift yourself lounge access

Speaking of what to do during a delay, the airport lounge might be your oasis. Airport lounges, which can typically be accessed via programs like Priority Pass (membership is sometimes included with certain credit cards ), can sometimes make a delay not merely tolerable, but actually enjoyable.

Lounges vary in quality, but the best ones have luxuries like nap suites, Peloton bikes, showers and buffets. Consider travel hassles like delays simply as opportunities to treat yourself to another complimentary cappuccino.

7. Let your phone assist you

Smartphone apps can simplify travel. Most airlines and hotels now offer online or in-app check-in, upon which you’ll receive a mobile boarding pass or virtual room key to bypass the physical counter.

Just this year, Starbucks rolled out the ability to order ahead from many airport locations, removing yet another irritating line you might otherwise stand in.

Apps can also notify you of a flight delay, help navigate new routes due to traffic, and find cheap gas stations .

8. Reserve the 'pay later' rate, even if it’s more expensive

Many rental car companies and hotels allow you to reserve now, but don’t require payment until you arrive. Sometimes they offer a discount for paying upfront, which can be worth it if you’re certain you’ll make the trip.

But given the uncertainty of travel issues these days, it might be worth paying what’s likely only a small percent more. The trade-off — no headache of trying to get your money back — can be worth it.

Plus, if prices drop between booking and check in, you can rebook the same reservation at a lower rate. In fact, such occurrences are surprisingly common. Hotel room rates were cheaper 73% of the time when booked 15 days out versus four months out — with an average savings of 13% over the past three years, according to a 2021 NerdWallet study .

9. Consider an all-inclusive or group tour

Group tours and all-inclusives can sometimes be more expensive upfront, but they may entail less headache given there are fewer reservations to book (and worry about going awry). When you book guided group vacations, the trip is in your guide’s hands once you arrive.

Trip challenges — whether a vehicle breakdown, unanticipated closure or something else — are almost inevitable these days. But if the trip is up to the guide you hired, then problem-solving is largely up to them, too.

10. Have travel insurance

Travel insurance can help you get money back for canceled or interrupted trips. It can also fund expenses like additional clothing if your luggage gets lost or an extra hotel room if you need to stay overnight due to a flight delay.

Some credit cards offer travel insurance on trips purchased with that card.

Read the policy, though, as many plans come to your rescue only if you experience a covered reason, like an injury or jury duty. You generally can’t expect a refund if you cancel “just because,” unless you purchase the more expensive “ Cancel For Any Reason ” coverage. And even still, this more-flexible coverage typically only refunds about 50% to 75% of the total cost, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

11. Tip where appropriate

Travel is already expensive, and tipping can sometimes feel like something you do begrudgingly, especially when you’ve already been hit by rapid inflation, resort fees and maybe even a COVID-19 surcharge.

Tipping can help a likely overworked employee (as of May 2022, leisure and hospitality employment still remains roughly 8% below pre-pandemic levels, according to the U.S. Travel Association). Likewise, your generosity might literally pay off for you, too.

Tipping the cleaning staff at the hotel breakfast buffet might net you a complimentary premium drink from the coffee bar. Some cash for the hotel housekeeper might mean chocolates and towel animals on your bed.

12. Be kind to workers and fellow travelers

You don’t necessarily have to tip to get superior service — kindness is free. Berating the gate agent because your flight was delayed won’t get you there any faster (not to mention it’s likely not their fault the flight is late). But, being nice means they’re more likely to pull some strings to get you on another flight.

And try to be patient with and considerate of other travelers. For a lot of rusty travelers, it’s their first trip in years. And for some other travelers, they’re flying to their fifth wedding of the month. They deserve your sympathy, too.

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Wild winter weather brings drastic temperature drops within minutes across the U.S.

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Jaclyn Diaz

Travelers walk through the snow into Terminal 1 Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022 at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport in Minneapolis. Alex Kormann/AP hide caption

Travelers walk through the snow into Terminal 1 Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022 at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport in Minneapolis.

Cities in the West are experiencing drastic drops in temperatures in just a matter of minutes, as dangerous winter weather conditions sweep across the U.S.

In Cheyenne, Wyo., the temperature plunged from 43 to 3 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 minutes on Wednesday afternoon, shattering Cheyenne's previous one-hour temperature drop record of 37 degrees, the National Weather Service said. Later that evening, the temperature continued to plummet from from 42 to -9 degrees Fahrenheit in two hours.

In Colorado, meteorologists reported record drops of 40.8°F in 30 minutes and 42.3°F in an hour in northern Colorado.

The temperature drops of 40.8°F in 30 minutes and 42.3°F in an hour at Christman Field (western Fort Collins) are easily the biggest in the records at this station. (Data back to 1997.) @NWSBoulder #cowx pic.twitter.com/MvoJ4vfEgT — Russ Schumacher (@russ_schumacher) December 21, 2022

The extremely cold airmass is expected to hit at least 24 other states along the Gulf Coast and in the eastern U.S., causing some coastal flooding and creating flash-freeze conditions on roadways across the central and southern plains, the National Weather Service said.

The shocking cold is just part of the dangerous conditions that will add extra challenges to an already-stressful season as millions of Americans travel for the holidays this week, the National Weather Service warned Wednesday .

Americans are traveling for the holidays in numbers not seen since before the pandemic, with nearly 113 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday season, according to the American Automobile Association. It's the third-busiest travel year since AAA began tracking the data in 2000.

Travelers arrive for flights at the O'Hare International Airport, in Chicago, on December 16. Scott Olson/Getty Images hide caption

Travelers arrive for flights at the O'Hare International Airport, in Chicago, on December 16.

The pressure on airlines is leading to thousands of canceled, or delayed, flights and skyrocketing airfares. A handful of airlines already are rebooking flights for customers as the weather makes travel more difficult — and potentially deadly.

Arctic air will blast much of the U.S. just before Christmas, forecasters say

A cold front moving through the northern Rockies, northern Plains, and upper Midwest Wednesday will bring areas of gusty winds, heavy snow and snow squalls, and a sharp drop in temperatures. pic.twitter.com/ePIAPLBGaP — National Weather Service (@NWS) December 21, 2022

Holiday flights will be pricey and packed. Here are 5 things to know before you book

Exposure to severe windchill can lead to frostbite, hypothermia and death, meteorologists warned — and will be made even more dangerous in some areas by the prospect of blizzard conditions.

"What adds to the rarity of this event is that significant blowing snow and possible blizzard conditions may occur at the same time," the NWS in Des Moines, Iowa, tweeted on Wednesday. "People may have little to no experience of these combined conditions."

Eastward, in the Great Lakes region, heavy snowfall and wind gusts could lead to tree damage and power outages.

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The Latest on U.S. Travel Restrictions

By Lauren Hard Oct. 19, 2021

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What to Know: U.S. Travel Restrictions

Beginning today, international visitors who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus can enter the United States by air or across the land borders with Canada and Mexico.

Here’s the latest →

The new policy ends an 18-month ban on nonessential travel from 33 countries, including China, Brazil and European Union members. The ban had affected tourists and those hoping to visit family and friends in the U.S.

The rules reorient the U.S. approach to vetting its visitors during the pandemic.

Instead of basing entry decisions on travelers’ countries of origin, the U.S. is focusing on vaccination status.

International visitors flying into the U.S. now need to show proof of vaccination before boarding and a negative coronavirus test taken within three days of their flight.

The three vaccines available in the U.S. — Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson — are accepted, as are vaccines cleared for emergency use by the W.H.O., including AstraZeneca and Covaxin.

Unvaccinated foreign visitors cannot enter the country, with limited exemptions.

Unvaccinated Americans returning home need to test negative for the coronavirus within one day of their flight and show proof they have purchased another test to take after arriving.

The hope is with these longstanding bans being lifted, the U.S. tourism industry will start to recover. The halt on travel caused a loss of nearly $300 billion in visitor spending, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

Keep up with the latest travel news, trends and feature stories.

Our Coverage of U.S. Immigration

America’s Brutal Visa Lottery: For Chinese seeking educational opportunity, the United States has long been the top spot, but as more want to stay to work, their paths are full of roadblocks .

A Migrant Family’s Struggles: Margarita Solito and her family fled violence and poverty in El Salvador, hoping to build a better life in San Francisco. The city often wasn’t what they thought it would be .

Home-Buying Assistance: Gov. Gavin Newsom of California rejected a Democratic proposal  that would have extended first-time home-buyer loans to some undocumented immigrants. Republicans had widely criticized the bill.

When One Partner Is Deported:  American citizens whose spouses have been deported face wrenching decisions on what is best  for their future, especially when they have children.

Asylum Restrictions:  The Biden administration is considering actions that would make the president’s tough but temporary asylum restrictions almost impossible to lift , essentially turning what had been a short-term fix into a central feature of the asylum system in America.

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States of emergency declared in Southeast ahead of winter snowstorm

The governors of several southeastern states declared states of emergency ahead of a massive winter storm that has roughly 64 million Americans under some type of weather alert.

The storm dumped heavy snow across parts of the Midwest on Friday, causing difficult travel conditions and leading to school closures. The weather is expected to hit the Southeast on Saturday before moving into the Northeast.

"On Saturday, the system will produce snow and rain over parts of the Middle/Lower Mississippi Valley," the National Weather Service said . "The rain will move into the Southeast as the snow starts falling over parts of the Central/Southern Appalachians by Saturday evening."

As the rain moves into North and South Carolina, "pockets of rain/freezing rain will develop over southern Mid-Atlantic/Southern Appalachians," according to the agency.

In preparation for the storm, the governors of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia declared states of emergency.

“The main message to my fellow Georgians is just be winter weather aware this weekend,” Gov. Brian Kemp said at a news conference on Friday. “By being ready and knowing what to do in the event of winter weather, you can help us minimize risk, reduce the time it takes to recover and most importantly keep everyone safe.”

Kemp said the state has already started mobilizing and is prepared “to deploy resources needed to protect our state." 

Northeast Georgia is under a winter storm warning from 10 p.m. Saturday to midnight, according to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City. The area is expected to get snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches as well as ice accumulations, the agency said.

In Virginia, then-Gov. Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency on Friday to allow quick coordination in response to snow, according to NBC Washington . Northam said the state is still trying to recover from a snowstorm earlier this month.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who was sworn in on Saturday, said in a tweet that forecasters are predicting "significant" weather conditions over the weekend and urged people to consider staying home.

The D.C. metro area is expected to get up to 4 inches of snow, NBC Washington reported. Up to 8 inches is possible for areas of Fauquier and Loudoun counties in Virginia and Frederick County in Maryland.

In Southern Maryland, up to 2 inches of snow is possible, but people living in that area should expect mostly rain, according to the news station.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster warned that residents could start to feel the effects of the storm system by Sunday morning.

“There is a potential for very dangerous conditions caused by accumulations of ice and snow, which will likely result in power outages across the state,” he said.

The National Weather Service said winter storm and ice storm warnings were in effect for parts of the state, and a winter storm watch had been issued for Columbia and surrounding areas.

In neighboring North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper signed an emergency order and urged people to stay home and off the roads once the storm hits.

"This storm will bring significant impacts from snow, sleet and freezing rain in different parts of the state, with likely power outages and travel disruptions," Cooper said in a news release . "North Carolinians should pay close attention to their local weather forecast over the next few days, and make sure they are personally prepared before Saturday afternoon."

With a staffing shortage due to the pandemic, Winston-Salem had to borrow workers from other departments in order to prepare streets ahead of the snowstorm.

“We just don’t have as many people to drive the trucks or operate the equipment,” spokesman Marcus Thompson at the North Carolina Department of Transportation said.

Snow should begin to fall around 5 a.m. on Sunday but then change to freezing rain, according to NBC affiliate WRAL of Raleigh.

Raleigh is expected to see roughly a tenth of an inch to a quarter of an inch of freezing rain on Sunday with wind gusts up to 40 mph, the news station reported. Up to half an inch of freezing rain is expected near Charlotte.

After battering the Southeast, the storm will move toward the Great Lakes region on Monday. Cities including Cleveland, and Syracuse and Buffalo New York should expect a mix of snow, freezing rain and rain. The storm will then hit parts of Canada on Tuesday morning.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

The Associated Press

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Travelers with Chronic Illnesses

While traveling abroad can be relaxing, the physical demands of travel can be difficult, particularly for travelers with chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or arthritis. Learn more about what you can do before, during and after travel to stay safe and healthy.

Before Travel

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist  that takes place at least 4-6 weeks before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations.

Make sure to bring a copy of your official immunization records with you when you travel.

Check CDC’s destination pages for travel health information . Check CDC’s webpage for your destination to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

Take recommended medicines as directed. If your doctor prescribes medicine for you, take the medicine as directed before, during, and after travel. Counterfeit drugs are common in some countries, so only take medicine that you bring from home and make sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Learn more about traveling abroad with medicine .

• To prevent drug interactions, ensure your healthcare provider knows what medicines you routinely take before they prescribe any medicine for travel. Some vaccines cannot be given to people taking certain medications.
• Some medicines, such as steroids, can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to travel-related infections.
• Sometimes insurance companies will pay for only a 30-day supply of medications at a time. If you plan to be gone for more time than your medicine will last, talk to your healthcare provider and your insurance company about how you can get enough medicine for your trip.
• Check with the US embassy or consulate to find out if there are any medication restrictions in your destination. Some countries do not allow visitors to bring certain medications into the country.

If you need oxygen or other medical equipment, notify your airline well in advance. The TSA Cares Helpline (toll-free at 855-787-2227) can also provide information on how to prepare for the airport security screening process with respect to a particular disability or medical condition.

Get travel insurance.  Find out if your health insurance covers medical care abroad. Travelers are usually responsible for paying hospital and other medical expenses out of pocket at most destinations. Make sure you have a plan to  get care overseas , in case you need it. Consider buying  additional insurance  that covers health care and emergency evacuation, especially if you will be traveling to remote areas.

Plan for the unexpected. It is important to plan for unexpected events as much as possible. Doing so can help you get quality health care or avoid being stranded at a destination. A few steps you can take to plan for unexpected events are to  get travel insurance ,    learn where to get health care during travel ,  pack a travel health kit ,  and  enroll in the Department of State’s STEP .

Locate medical services by contacting the US embassy at your destination. They can help you locate medical services and will notify your family and friends in the event of an emergency.

During Travel

Carry a card with information about your health conditions and bring a list of your medications from your healthcare provider, written in English and (if possible) the local language. You may also want to bring copies x-rays or other imaging, most recent lab results, your most recent electrocardiogram (ECG), and any other documentation you think might be useful to health care workers who may treat you. If appropriate, wear a medical alert bracelet or other medical jewelry with this information on it.

Practice healthy habits during travel, including eating healthy and exercising regularly. Continue to take recommended medicines as directed. If your doctor prescribed medicine for you, take the medicine as directed during your trip. 

Airplane travel, especially flights longer than 4 hours, may increase your risk for blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Some chronic diseases also put you at greater risk for blood clots. Lean how to prevent blood clots during travel.

After Travel

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about any areas you recently traveled to. 

If you need medical care abroad, see Getting Health Care During Travel .

More Information

CDC Yellow Book:  Travelers with Chronic Illnesses

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Write down your conditions, medications in the country's language: How to travel with a chronic illness

• Medical professionals say those with chronic illness can travel safely by taking extra precautions.

Always wear a mask, preferably a KN95 or N95, she says, especially on airplanes and when in close proximity to other people.

• You should have a list of your medications and dosages (in different languages), in case you lose them or must go to a hospital outside of your network.

The last 20 months have changed almost all aspects of daily life. And if you have a chronic health condition, and have travel planned, there are added precautions you should implement to protect yourself even more.

We asked health experts for advice about how those who live with chronic health conditions can plan ahead and stay safer. So if you're visiting relatives or friends for the holidays, or just have a long-awaited trip planned, here's how you safely can enjoy a reunion with loved ones and your pent-up wanderlust. 

In general, medical professionals say those with chronic illness can travel safely by taking extra precautions. However, in the era of COVID-19, more of a risk/benefit analysis should be considered to determine if the travel makes sense with your condition.

You'll want to keep your health needs at the top of your to-do list.

What precautions should someone with a chronic illness take while traveling?

"First, make sure you are vaccinated and have gotten your booster," says Alaina Brinley Rajagopal, a Southern California-based emergency medicine physician. The next step is to evaluate the location to which you are traveling.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Rajagopal suggests asking these questions: Are infections rising there? Are there precautions in place for everyone – for vaccinated travelers and for unvaccinated travelers? 

►Travel tips: What airlines owe you when flights are canceled, delayed

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She stresses the importance of understanding testing, masking and social-distancing regulations at your destination.

"Mask fit is very important for effectiveness so be sure it fits firmly against your face and stays over your mouth and nose at all times," Rajagopal says. "Stay at least  6 feet away from other people and avoid large group gatherings whenever possible."

If you are gathering with family and friends for the holidays, an outdoor setting is preferable. If your doctor is supportive of your travel plans, Rajagopal says it's vital to have a discussion about what to do if your condition should worsen. You should also know where the local medical facilities are and how to access them. 

Finally, make sure you have enough of your medications to last the trip plus a bit extra in case there are delays or you have to be quarantined, she says.

You should bring enough medication for your trip but also pack extra medication.

"Before the pandemic, I recommended one week of extra medication but in the era of COVID-19, I usually recommend 2-3 weeks of extra medication just in case of a quarantine situation," Dr. Rajagopal advises. 

Whether you are traveling or not, you should have a list of your medications and dosages, in case you lose them or must go to a hospital outside of your network, she says.

To provide an added layer of protection, you also may want to consider wearing a bracelet or necklace listing your medical conditions. In addition, always keep your medical supplies close.

"You should always pack your medications in your carry-on, never in your checked luggage," Rajagopal cautions. 

If you have dietary restrictions, travel can present added risks. "Try to pack some snacks that you can eat in case your meal requirements aren't available while you're in transit," she recommends.

Getting there needs some planning, as well 

Since air travel has mandated mask requirements, planes are relatively safe, Rajagopal says. However, it can be difficult to predict who your seatmates are and how compliant they will be regarding the regulations.

"Try to travel with family or close friends so that you can occupy an entire row on the aircraft and distance yourself from others," she says.

"Ideally, your destination should have masking, social distancing, and entry testing requirements to maximize safety," Rajagopal adds. "Once you have determined that your destination is safe enough for you to travel, you should visit your doctor and discuss your individual condition and any extra precautions you may need to take."

Be aware of your surroundings.

"While current regulations ask people not to travel if they are sick, it is possible someone will still fly while ill," she says. "If you are seated next to someone who is coughing, or appears unwell, you may want to explain your condition to a flight attendant and ask to move next to someone who is not coughing."

How to plan for international travel

So whether traveling in the U.S. or internationally, check in with your health care professional well in advance of  your trip.

"Depending on your specific condition, the advice may be different," says Jan Carney, Associate Dean for Public Health & Health Policy, Professor of Medicine and Director, Graduate Public Health Programs at Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont.

International travel may require additional preparation. Before you go, check on your specific health insurance coverage. Will you be covered in a different U.S. state if you need medical care? What about international travel?

►Which EU countries are open to US tourists?: A breakdown of EU travel restrictions by country

►Going south?: Here are the travel restrictions across Central and South America due to COVID-19

Carney stresses you should know how and where to get health care if you need it. "Check in advance about local hospitals and clinics in the area where you will be staying. If you need a specialist, ask your health care professional for a recommendation before you leave," continues Carney.

Also, if you are visiting a foreign country, Rajagopal advises making sure you know how to translate words "help," "hospital," "emergency," plus the names for your particular medical conditions in that language.

Rajagopal also suggests you have your medical conditions written down in the language of the country to which you're traveling so you can show the doctor if needed.

Story continues below.

Try and stick to your normal routines

Whether it's taking your prescription medication at proper times, sticking to a healthy diet, staying hydrated and exercising, don't underestimate the importance of your own health habits.

"Keep your best health routine for sleeping, eating, and taking any medications you need," Carney says.  "This is especially important for longer trips. Remember to drink plenty of water, wear comfortable clothes, and stretch or walk around on long flights."

Press Release

For Immediate Release #8-22

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES HAZARDOUS TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR FRIDAY EVENING, JANUARY 28, THROUGH SATURDAY, JANUARY 29

Winter storm warning in effect for new york city friday evening through saturday evening, snow and frigid temperatures expected, alternate side parking regulations are suspended for saturday, january 29.

January 28, 2022 — The New York City Emergency Management Department today issued a hazardous travel advisory for Friday evening, January 28, through Saturday, January 29. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for New York City in effect from 7 p.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Saturday, January 29. A Winter Storm Warning is issued when heavy snow of 6 inches or more is expected to significantly impact mass transit, utilities, and cause difficult travel conditions. New Yorkers should prepare for snow covered roads and limited visibility. New Yorkers are advised to avoid travel Friday night through Saturday evening, as roads will be dangerous.

According to the latest National Weather Service forecast, light snow will develop Friday evening, becoming steadier and heavier overnight into Saturday morning. Snow will continue through Saturday afternoon and begin to taper off in the late afternoon. A total of 8 to 12 inches of accumulation is expected with this event, with locally higher amounts possible. Temperatures will be in the low 20s to mid-teens with wind chills near or below zero from Saturday morning through mid-day Sunday. Wind gusts may also be as high as 50 mph with strong gusts continuing through Saturday night, producing low visibility due to drifting and blowing snow, even after snowfall has ended.

"We are working closely with the National Weather Service and key City agencies to monitor and coordinate the City’s preparations ahead of this storm," said New York City Emergency Management Acting Commissioner Christina Farrell . "The combination of snow, potential strong winds, and the quick drop in temperatures will cause extremely dangerous road conditions. We are advising all New Yorkers to avoid all unnecessary travel and stay off the roads on Friday night to Saturday evening."

"New Yorkers may wake up tomorrow to find a significant overnight snowfall, with more to come throughout the day. The 10,000 employees of the Department of Sanitation will be working 12-hour shifts today and throughout the weekend to get the City moving again. Residents can help us by staying off the roads as much as possible so that our plows and salt spreaders can get through safely," said New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Edward Grayson .

The City’s Sanitation Department has issued a " snow alert " beginning on Friday, January 28, at 4 p.m. The Sanitation Department is pre-deploying over 700 salt spreaders to pretreat roadways ahead of the first snowflake and is prepared to dispatch plows in all sectors when more than 2 inches of snow accumulates.

Safety Tips

• Stay off the roads as much as possible. If you must travel, use mass transit.
• If you must drive, drive slowly. Allow for extra travel time, and exercise caution when traveling. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.
• Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs.
• Take care when walking on snow and ice, especially if you are an older adult. Seniors should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.
• Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.
• If you have to go outdoors, wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves. Stay alert for signs of hypothermia, like intense shivering or dizziness, and anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek medical attention or call 911.
• Be careful when shoveling snow. Follow your doctor's advice if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who may need help in cold weather &mdashs; especially older adults or people with disabilities — to make sure they are safe inside and have heat.
• Immediately tell your building superintendent, property manager or owner if you do not have heat. Call 311 if the problem is not fixed quickly and go to a warm place, such as a friend's or family member's home. If you stay at home, wear additional layers of clothing to keep warm.
• Improper use of portable heating equipment can lead to fire or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Take precautions to ensure you are heating your home safely. Do not heat your home with a gas stove or oven, charcoal grill, or kerosene, propane, or oil-burning heaters.
• Always keep an eye on heating equipment. Never leave children alone in the room where a space heater is running. Turn it off when you are unable to closely monitor it.
• Be careful not to overload electrical circuits.

For more safety tips, visit  NYC.gov/SevereWeather . Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels including Notify NYC, the City's free emergency notification system. Through Notify NYC, New Yorkers can receive phone calls, text messages, and/or emails alerts about traffic and transit disruptions and other emergencies. Sign up for Notify NYC to receive free emergency alerts and updates in your preferred language by visiting NYC.gov/NotifyNYC , calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for your Apple or Android device.

MEDIA CONTACT: Press Office (718) 422-4888

STAY CONNECTED: Twitter: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications) @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info) Facebook: /NYCemergencymanagement

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National Program

Winter Weather Warnings, Watches and Advisories

Winter weather related Warnings, Watches and Advisories are issued by your local National Weather Service office. Each office knows the local area and will issue Warnings, Watches or Advisories based on local criteria. For example, the amount of snow that triggers a “Winter Storm Warning” in the Northern Plains is typically much higher than the amount needed to trigger a “Winter Storm Warning” in the Southeast.

+ Warnings: Take Action!

• Blizzard Warnings  are issued for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely, leading to whiteout conditions making travel extremely difficult. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive.
• Winter Storm Warnings are issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards.  Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations. Delay your travel plans until conditions improve.
• Ice Storm Warnings are usually issued for ice accumulation of around 1/4 inch or more. This amount of ice accumulation will make travel dangerous or impossible and likely lead to snapped power lines and falling tree branches. Travel is strongly discouraged.
• Wind Chill Warnings  are issued for a combination of very cold air and strong winds that will create dangerously low wind chill values. This level of wind chill will result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. Avoid going outdoors and wear warm protective clothing if you must venture outside. See the  NWS Wind Chill Chart .
• Lake Effect Snow Warnings  are issued when widespread or localized lake induced snow squalls or heavy showers are expected to produce significant snowfall accumulation. Lake effect snow usually develops in narrow bands and impacts a limited area. These bands can produce very heavy snow with sudden restrictions in visibility. Driving conditions may become hazardous at times.

+ Watches: Be Prepared

• Winter Storm Watches  are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event (heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storm, heavy snow and blowing snow or a combination of events.)
• Wind Chill Watches  are issued when there is the potential for a combination of extremely cold air and strong winds to create dangerously low wind chill values. See the  NWS Wind Chill Chart.

+ Advisories: Be Aware

• Winter Weather Advisories  are issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements is expected but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet warning criteria.  Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties. Use caution when driving.
• Wind Chill Advisories  are issued when low wind chill temperatures are expected but will not reach local warning criteria. Extremely cold air and strong winds will combine to generate low wind chill readings. If you must venture outdoors, take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia. See the  NWS Wind Chill Chart.
• Lake Effect Snow Advisory  are issued for widespread or localized lake effect snowfall accumulation (and blowing snow) remaining below warning criteria. Expects lake effect snow showers and assume travel will be difficult in some areas. Some localized snow bands will be intense enough to produce several inches in a few areas with sudden restrictions in visibility.

Here are some more key terms to understand:

• Freezing Rain:  Rain that freezes when it hits the ground; creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
• Sleet:  Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
• Wind Chill : A measure of how cold people feel due to the combined effect of wind and cold temperatures; the  Wind Chill Index  is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin. Both cold temperatures and wind remove heat from the body; as the wind speed increases during cold conditions, a body loses heat more quickly. Eventually, the internal body temperature also falls and hypothermia can develop. Animals also feel the effects of wind chill; but inanimate objects, such as vehicles and buildings, do not. They will only cool to the actual air temperature, although much faster during windy conditions.

Find the current forecast at  weather.gov .

US Dept of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Weather Service Safety 1325 East West Highway Silver Spring, MD 20910 Comments? Questions? Please Contact Us.

Upcoming winter storm will cause difficult travel conditions and closures

Winter travel alert.

Colorado - Colorado Department of Transportation crews in southwest Colorado continue to tackle snowy conditions from the weekend and are ready for the upcoming winter storm that will bring another surge of heavy snow to the region starting in the late afternoon on Monday, Jan. 16, and most of Tuesday, Jan. 17. The storm will intensify and pick up speed as it moves over the Continental Divide into Tuesday night and will continue on to eastern and northeastern Colorado where it will potentially bring heavy snow and intensify into Wednesday.

“Motorists should be prepared to see a significant amount of snow moving from southwest Colorado to the eastern portion of our state,” said John Lorme, CDOT director of maintenance and operations. “Motorists should expect to see closures on many of our mountain passes for avalanche mitigation over the next few days and prepare for slick and hazardous conditions in the metro area, particularly during the Wednesday morning commute. The eastern plains may also experience white-out conditions which may prompt safety closures.”

Travelers are urged to “know before you go” and pay close attention to weather conditions before hitting the road. The storm will move into the Great Basin today, kicking off an active period of weather through much of Wednesday. The southwest moisture flow will favor the San Juan Mountains, foothills and adjacent canyons beginning late this afternoon. These areas will see heavy snow overnight through most of Tuesday before the storm moves further north and east by Tuesday evening. This is when the Northern Mountains and areas near the Continental Divide will see their best pulse of precipitation.

Storm totals will heavily favor the southern and western ranges, with lighter totals expected further north and east. The storm will intensify and pick up speed as it crests the Divide Tuesday night. Despite some uncertainty in the storm’s speed and track, models still agree northeast Colorado will receive a healthy dose of moisture Tuesday night through Wednesday morning.

CDOT crews west of Golden and in southwestern Colorado have been on full snow shift since before the storm as these regions experienced winter weather conditions over the weekend and will remain on snow shift throughout this next storm. All maintenance crews throughout the state will be on snow shift starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 17.

During periods of snowfall, plows will make continuous passes on state-maintained roads and spread deicer materials to help break down the snow and ice. CDOT uses both liquid and solid deicers to help melt the ice once it has started to stick on the pavement. Motorists often believe that CDOT maintains local and residential roads, including neighborhood streets. However, cities and counties are responsible for local and residential roads — not CDOT.

CDOT crews are prepared statewide 

Denver Region and the I-70 Mountain Corridor east of the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel

• Impacts in the Denver region are expected to start late in the evening on Tuesday, Jan. 17, and continue  into Wednesday morning. Pavement conditions will be slick and hazardous in spots on Tuesday night into the Wednesday morning commute. Heavy snow is predicted for the Plains east of Denver through Tuesday evening, with white-out conditions expected. 
• Crews make continuous plow passes on the most heavily traveled state maintained routes first, including I-25, I-70, I-76, I-270, I-225, C-470 and other major routes. Once the storm subsides, crews will plow other state routes. 

Northeast Colorado

• The worst conditions, starting Tuesday evening, will likely be found east of I-25 where the heavy snow will overlap with breezy northerly winds into Wednesday. Motorists should be prepared for white-out conditions and safety closures on state highways and I-70 in this region. 

Southwest Colorado

• Heavy snow accumulations are expected for the mountain ranges of southwest Colorado through Tuesday. Travel is expected to be difficult with potential safety closures. Heavy snow will create icy, slick and snow-packed road conditions. Once the storm has cleared, periodic road closures can be expected on mountain passes to allow for avalanche mitigation operations, possibly through Thursday.    

I-70 Mountain Corridor and Northwest Colorado

• Snow expected along the I-70 Mountain Corridor with higher totals between Frisco and Vail starting tomorrow afternoon. Motorists should be prepared for potential safety closures if conditions warrant it. Significant snowfall will occur in the Grand Mesa area and along US 50, which will create treacherous driving conditions. CDOT will conduct a safety closure of Douglas Pass (Highway 139 from MP 30 to MP 72) starting at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16. Crews will reevaluate the need for the closure at daylight tomorrow morning. 

What motorists should know

• Avoid or limit driving during the brunt of the storm. Many areas of the state will experience pavement impacts and blowing snow due to strong winds
• Work from home if you can
• If you plan to travel, know before you go by checking out the latest weather conditions and visiting COtrip.org for road conditions (see information resources below)
• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready with the appropriate tires for the weather and have a snow emergency kit
• Once you are out on the road, take it slow, no sudden stops and leave plenty of following distance
• Give plows space! Stay back three to four car lengths from snow plows

Safety closures

• A safety closure is a precaution taken during inclement weather to reduce the probability of traffic incidents, increased congestion or other safety-related factors. During a safety closure, traffic may be stopped on the interstate, turned around or directed to an exit. Safety closures help decrease delay times, and, above all, keep travelers safe.

Chain and Traction Laws

• When weather conditions warrant, CDOT will activate the Traction Law. If weather conditions deteriorate, CDOT will activate Chain Laws for passenger and commercial vehicles. Motorists will be alerted to an active Traction or Chain Law by highway signage,   COtrip.org   and traffic/roadway condition alerts. For more information on the Traction Law and Passenger Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit   codot.gov/travel/winter- driving/tractionlaw . For more information on the Commercial Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit   codot.gov/travel/colorado- chain-law . To learn more and view helpful tips for winter driving, visit   winter.codot.gov .

Download the COtrip App!

If motorists must head out during this winter storm, they are urged to visit COtrip.org and download the COtrip Planner app ahead of time. Motorists are now able to sign up for travel alerts through COtrip.org to see if there are any highway closures or impacts along their favorite routes. The COtrip Planner app also offers a “Trip Planner” feature that allows motorists to map out their routes and receive updates about road closures or incidents along the way. Motorists can turn on the “Hands-Free, Eyes Free” feature to receive these alerts via voice notifications and avoid routes with impacts. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube