Okay, let’s talk about traveling, especially in the midst of a pandemic.
First, let’s separate traveling (getting from Point A to Point B) from exploring (seeing all there is to see in Point B). We like to do both, but more the latter than the former. Travelling isn’t what it used to be, and for a whole bunch of reasons. And while travelling is more complicated and can be a pain, we’ve picked up a few things along the way that make a world of difference for our traveling experience.
What we’ve Learned about Travelling, Part 1: The Airport Experience.
If you’re flying, TSA Pre-Check is easily among the best investments we’ve ever made. Yes, lots of other people have it. Yes, it’s still valuable and handy to have. It’s SO nice to not wait in the long lines, not have to take your shoes/belt/jacket off, and not have to take things out of our carry-on bags. These all sound like small things, and they are, but they add up quickly. And when travelling has become more complicated and can be a headache, why not rack up the small wins when you can? Just in our small hometown airport alone, we can walk in the door and straight through security to be at the gate in about 5-10 minutes. It definitely takes longer at larger US airports but not having to re-dress yourself and cram everything back into your carefully packed bags alone is worth it. Plus, you’re trading that hour long security line for one that’s only a few minutes long. Major win for your stress levels.
Along the same lines, if you’re leaving the country, we’d recommend two different programs to consider, as either can make your life easier when you re-enter the States. First, Global Entry. Being in this program means you have a MUCH shorter process to journey through Customs when you get back to the US (note, this does not change your entry process into other countries). You have to submit your application, wait for approval, and then schedule your interview (at an international airport), during which they’ll ask you a few questions and take your picture. Once complete, you’ll receive your card in the mail a short while later. Because of this, it’s important to plan well in advance to make this happen. Also keep in mind that, as of the time we’re writing this, Global Entry also gets you TSA Pre-Check (win!). If you are a credit card points gathering fool like we are and hold a card with travel benefits, check to see if they cover the cost of Pre-Check and Global Entry. Many do as part of your annual fee and this puts you well on your way to justifying that annual fee.
Second, if you don’t want to shell out the money for Global Entry, we’d strongly recommend an app on your phone called Mobile Passport. You know the form you’ll receive on the plane when you get back asking you to declare things you’ve purchased on your trip? Mobile passport captures your passport information and has you answer those questions, all in a handy app. It won’t work before you land at your point-of-entry back into the US (we do it as soon as we touch down while the plane taxis to the gate), but once you submit and it’s accepted, there’s a different and much shorter/faster line to go through in Customs. Best part? It’s totally free. Usually we do that, even though we have Global Entry, and then just go through whichever line is shorter.
However, on our most recent trip back from Mexico we didn’t have to fill out a paper form and even though we were super prepared by filling out our Mobile Passport App, they never asked for it. We glided through the Global Entry line and on to pick up our bags and re-drop them for the second leg of our trip.
Mental note – they run you through security again after an international flight, don’t buy a giant bottle of water in the airport unless you plan to drink it ALL because they will make you dump it. Sad face. Also, a Kindle counts as a computer these days apparently, take it out of your bag or they’ll make you rescan and wait forever. FOR-EV-ER.
Another thing you’re going to be asked about at flight check-in for an international trip these days is your Covid test. As of this writing you have to have a negative test to re-enter the country, taken the day before your flight (not necessarily 24 hours before). Luckily our resort in Cabo offered us a test so we didn’t have to track one down. If you’re not staying somewhere that offers testing the day before you leave, you can bring an at home test to bring with you to take online. This is where I refer you to the experts – The Points Guy has a whole team of travel experts that stay on top of the ever changing requirements. This article really breaks down the current requirements.
We hope to see you back out there soon. We’re just scratching the surface. Stay tuned for more tips and more travel from us! Have a wonderful Christmas!
