We’re back folks! According to AAA, projected holiday travel numbers have nearly returned to 2019 levels! However, the way we travel has forever shifted. Here are 5 Services + Products, I won’t travel without this holiday season.

#1 PLANNING THAT TRIP

Use a TRAVEL AGENT! First off they have connections to travel companies for upgrades, special treatment + amenities, and who are also up to date on vaccination + testing requirements, the most flexible travel companies + cancellation policies. 

These expert’s fees are typically covered by the airline/hotel, not the consumer. When that flight is cancelled + you are going to miss that connection – you’ve got someone to call who is going to take care of business while you are in the air. Some experts I trust: Embark Beyond+ Strong Travel.

#2 GOT YOU COVERED

When you book, buy travel insurance! In addition to covering things like lost/stolen luggage, trip cancellation, most companies now have special COVID policies. Allianz for example just launched their new single trip plan which offers:

1. Proactive flight delay benefits; like no receipt travel or baggage delays
2. Emergency Medical benefits – you don’t even have to file through your insurance first – Allianz takes care of it all!

#3 TO CHECK OR NOT TO CHECK, THAT IS THE QUESTION

Some takeaways from the pandemic? I will pay for any services that make my life easier + safer, most especially while traveling. For example, a travel agent friend introduced me to a service called Luggage Free. They came and picked up my bag from me (you can also drop it off at FedEx or UPS), I didn’t have to pay a bag fee to the airline nor shelp it around the world and my bag arrived at my hotel before me. 

They also do skis, golf clubs, + holiday presents too. Less points of contact for travelers, affordable + hassle free.

#4 MY “PLANE ROUTINE”

It’s not just about looking fabulous anymore, now we also have to consider  staying safe everywhere we go. I literally don’t walk out the door without my hand-sanitizer, wipes + air mist, all by PlaneAire. 

I like them because they’re plant-based and backed by science and they’re easy to take with you wherever you go. I have this little “boarding the plane routine”. After I throw my rolly in the overhead compartment, I get out my spray and sanitize the seat + tray table. Once settled, out comes my hand sanitizer which I’m totally obsessed with because it doesn’t dry my hands out thanks to the essential oils and other hydrating ingredients like green tea extract, vegan glycerin and aloe vera. One of my fave new scents is Sandalwood. It’s so fresh you’ll forget its a sanitizer!

PlaneAire currently has a special for a 2-pack starter set which allows you to save 20% and includes one spray for air and surfaces and one hand sanitizer blend of your choice. Want wipes too? PlaneAire’s travel essentials bundle includes a box of 12 individually wrapped surface wipes, along with the spray and hand sanitizer. 

SHOP the Starter Set here: https://www.planeaire.com/product/starter-set/ 

#5 TRAVEL SMARTER + SAFER

With the TravelSmart app by Allianz. It is free to every traveler, you don’t even need a policy + works internationally. The app provides:  

1. Real time flight updates + boarding gate info
2. International Hospital Search with nearby, pre-screened medical facilities in an emergency
3. Local emergency numbers
4. Rx and First Aid Terms in 18 languages

Pack a bag and a mask + journey on with us this holiday season,

Michaela + the OTPYM Traveling Team.