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Planning is more important than ever, according to Dr. Michael Barnish, an infectious disease specialist at Jefferson Health New Jersey. First, he says, travelers must know pandemic guidelines before hitting the road.
"They have to be somewhat aware of where they're going and what the rate of disease is. Are they going someplace that has outbreaks that are out of control? Are they going somewhere where there are restrictions in place?" he said.
"They may have to quarantine if they go there and may not necessarily realize that and they might have to quarantine when they get back."
It's especially important to know the rules if traveling overseas, as many countries still haven't re-opened borders to Americans.
Barnish says staying in hotels will be different from before. A smartphone may be needed for registration and as the door key. And forget about maid service.
"If you have a stay there, they're not coming in and changing the bedding or the towels. They are yours. If you want new ones, put them outside the door and they'll leave the clean ones outside the door," he said. "They're not emptying trash. A lot of hotels don’t actually have restaurants or eating inside anymore you have to kind of find your own places."
He suggests travelers pack several masks, antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer. And anyone in a high-risk category for COVID-19 complications, might be better off staying home.