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Top 10 Destinations In The U.S. This Fall, According To Airbnb

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Fall is upon us, and travelers are ready to hit the road and enjoy the change in seasons. Airbnb has reported the top ten destinations in the U.S. for fall travelers, pointing out that last-minute beach destinations and college towns lead the pack. With football season beginning, fans are eager to reserve their accommodations for upcoming games. Also, with summer ending, many travelers hope to squeeze in one last trip to the beach before the cold sets in. Below are the top U.S. destinations this fall based on the number of nights booked on Airbnb.

10) Wheat Ridge, CO

Wheat Ridge is part of the Denver metropolitan area, located immediately west of Denver’s city center. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to downtown Denver without being right in the middle of a big city. Fall is a great time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.

9) Lexington, KY

Lexington sits about an hour south of Cincinnati and is home to the famous horse racing track, Keeneland. Fall racing begins in October and lasts nearly the entire month. University of Kentucky fans also pour into the city throughout the fall to catch the Wildcat’s football games.

8) Lubbock, TX

Home to Texas Tech University, Lubbock is set to welcome many visitors this fall as fans pour in from all over the state and country. Football is a big deal in Texas, and fans are highly loyal, leading to increased bookings for the area through Airbnb.

7) Ann Arbor, MI

Another big college football town, Ann Arbor, is home to the University of Michigan. Located to the west of Detroit, Ann Arbor is home to many breweries offering unique Autumn brews. There are also several orchards nearby for pumpkin collecting and hot cider.

6) Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge is a wonderful place to visit in the fall. The weather is still warm but mild compared to summer, and there are plenty of festivals to attend, including the Fifolet Halloween Festival. Football is also a big attraction for the fall, with both LSU and Southern University in the city.

5) La Mesa, CA

La Mesa is just east of San Diego, so it goes without saying that the fall weather is perfect there! If you are in around Halloween time, be sure to check out the Dia de Los Muertos celebrations for an authentic celebration of this Mexican tradition.

4) Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana is in Orange County near Huntington Beach and southeast of Los Angeles. Temperatures don’t typically dip below 70 during the day in November, and evening brings cool weather in the mid-50s. Visit the Old World Village in nearby Huntington Beach for Oktoberfest from September 18^th to November 6^th.

3) Oxford, MS

The Ole Miss Rebels have a massive college football fan following, and it’s no surprise that people are flocking to Airbnbs near the University of Mississippi this fall. Oxford is in northern Mississippi, about an hour south of Memphis, Tennessee. Rowan Oak, the historic home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner is a popular attraction in the area.

2) Bella Vista, AR

Bella Vista is a great fall getaway for travelers who want to take in the foliage. The city lies on the southern border of Mississippi. With almost 100 miles of hiking and biking trails, it’s an excellent location for connecting with nature. Seven lakes and golf courses are in the area, allowing visitors the opportunity to golf, fish, kayak, and paddleboard.

1) Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City is the top destination for Airbnb stays this fall, and it’s easy to see why. Towards the beginning of October, several blocks of Asbury Avenue are closed off for the annual Fall Block Party. Live performances, countless merchants, and artists line the streets, and there is a fireworks display in the evening. If you are in town for Halloween, you can enjoy the yearly Halloween Parade, which has been taking place for over 70 years.

Depending on when you arrive, it may be too cold for a swim. However, the beaches are still open and are great for a beautiful walk without the crowds. Afterward, travelers can head downtown to walk along Asbury Avenue, which is excellent for shopping and is home to many charming cafes.

Where Else Are Travelers Headed?

While the above destinations are the top spots for U.S. travelers using Airbnb this fall, there are several other locations travelers are interested in. We’ve also covered the top European destinations Americans are headed to this fall and the top U.S. destinations they are headed to this fall, according to Tripadvisor. Notable domestic destinations include Las Vegas and New York, while notable international locations include Edinburgh and Munich.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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September 3, 2022
American Airlines And Air Canada Relaunching Nonstop Flights To Cozumel This Fall
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Viva Mexico! Indisputably America’s favorite international destination, the country is experiencing a significant increase in flight frequency lately, with airlines battling among themselves for dominance in key markets. American Airlines and Air Canada are among some of the strongest contenders, having just added new nonstop flights to Cozumel.

Now that the colder months are approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, demand for Caribbean travel could be reaching an all-time high for the first official post-pandemic travel season. Interestingly, Mexico remains a regional leader in bookings, in spite of heavy competition from Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and the like.

Following the latest announcement, Cozumel, one of its most sought-after beaches, is about to get a lot busier:

American Airlines Adding Flights To Cozumel From Two U.S. Cities

As part of their fall and winter program, which also features flights to other sunny spots like Cuba and skiing hubs, American Airlines is reinstating their Cozumel flights. Departing weekly from Charlotte, North Carolina, with a start date set for October 8, Cozumel complements American’s already-comprehensive Mexican flight map.

Although it was originally established as a seasonal offer, customers booking through the carrier’s website will notice nonstop service is available up to July 29, 2023, the furthest the calendar goes on the date this article was written. While we have not obtained confirmation, judging by this schedule, Cozumel is looking like a permanent addition.

In other words, Charlotte-based travelers will have a direct link to the pristine island throughout winter and well into summer 2023, unlike customers residing elsewhere in the U.S. Airfares are considerably higher than the average Cancun flight, starting at $370 one-way, but much cheaper seats can be found when reserved months in advance.

Flights will depart every Saturday at 9:05 from Charlotte Douglas International (CLT), landing in Cozumel International (CZM) at 11:16. Returning home the next Saturday, Charlotteans should be at the gate at 1:00 (in the morning), landing at 5:00, though connecting flights in Austin, Texas are available throughout the week.

Other details include:
- Flight time 3h00 (roughly)
- Operated by an Airbus A319
- Seats distributed between Basic Economy, Main Economy, and Business Classes
- Refreshments are available for Basic and Main Economy customers
- Business travelers have free breakfast
- Features AC power, live TV, personal device streaming and high-speed WiFi*
*WiFi is usually available for a fee

Charlotte is not the only U.S. hub being awarded its own air bridge with the paradise island: Philadelphia will begin hosting once-a-week Cozumel flights from November 5, a seasonal strategy ending April 1, 2023, according to the company’s own online flight schedule. Much like Charlotte’s, the Philadelphia-Cozumel route will be open on Saturdays.

Departure time is 10:40 a.m. and the journey lasts 4h40 approximately, with 2:20 a.m. as the tentative arrival time. On the way back, he flight leaves Cozumel at 2:39 p.m., touching down in Philadelphia at 7:35 p.m. Economy tickets can cost as little as $280 one-way, depending on seat availability and travel dates.

Besides Cancun, Cozumel is the only other destination American Airlines serves in the Mayan Riviera from Philadelphia International. The route is operated by an Embraer 175 under American Eagle, a regional branch of American Airlines. Unlike the Airbus 319 deployed for Charlotte, this aircraft is not equipped with WiFi.

Air Canada Offering Cozumel Flights From Its Toronto Base

Lastly, Air Canada is bringing Canadians much closer to Cozumel, being the latest major airline to announce nonstop flights to the island. Leaving from Toronto Pearson, flights will start November 6 under the Air Canada Rouge logo, a subsidiary of the nation’s flag-carrier. Throughout November, frequency will be weekly, more specifically every Sunday.

Beginning December, this will increase to twice a week, culminating in three-weekly flights from January 2023. Flight duration is 4h20 and one-way tickets start at $425, making it a pricier alternative to Cancun’s busy airport. On the other hand, Cozumel’s arrival figures are significantly lower, resulting in fewer delays.

Luckily, Torontonians no longer face layovers in the U.S. or Mexico vacationing there. Sunday timetables for November are as follows:

Outbound
- Departure from Toronto: 10:20 a.m.
- Arrival in Cozumel: 2:40 p.m.
Return
- Departure from Cozumel: 3:35 p.m.
- Arrival in Toronto: 7:35 p.m.
A few of Cozumel’s top rated attractions are Playa Caletita, in close proximity to the island’s ferry terminal, the landmark Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, and the Mayan monument-packed San Gervasio Archaeological Site. All around the island, snorkeling and open sea swimming are among popular activities.

For more news on the Mexican Caribbean, make sure you keep up with our associated website Cancun Sun.

Read More:

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American Airlines Launches New Flights To Cozumel, Mexico And 2 Destinations In Jamaica

Air Canada Is Reporting Improvements, But Should Canadians Still Be Wary Of Travel?

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

↓ Join the community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 3, 2022
Random Testing On Arrival In Canada Could Force Tourists To Quarantine
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Although a majority of the Western World has dropped all of their entry requirements already, tourists visiting Canada still risk being sent to quarantine when randomly selected for testing on-arrival and given a positive Covid result – even if no longer infectious. Whether you’re vaccinated or recovered, Canada makes no distinction.

From the onset of the pandemic, the North American country has resorted to countless measures to curb the viral spread. Among the most controversial ones, unvaccinated Canadians were, for a period of time, unable to board flights in Canada, and most foreigners, Americans included, were routinely turned away at the border.

These stricter rules have been relaxed and the world has moved on, but Canada still hasn’t fully let its guard down and continues barring international travel:

Canada’s Strict Border Rules Keeps Punishing Tourists Regardless Of Vaccination Status

It’s September 2022, and tourists, Canadian expats and business travelers can enter Canada once more. The country is no longer completely sealed off from the rest of the world, as it had been throughout 2020, and with each passing month, cross-border connectivity with the United States gets stronger – be it more flights, or reinstated railway links.

On the downside, Ottawa lawmakers have shown a firm reluctance in easing Canada’s much criticized travel rules – rules many deem outdated and unjustified by science. Yes, non-Canadians can visit for non-essential purposes, but they must tick a number of boxes to be eligible for travel. Among those there is a requirement to be fully vaccinated.

On top of that, they must submit personal information and agree to being tested on arrival. The policy, briefly paused at the peak of the summer travel chaos, was quickly reinforced as soon as congestion eased. While not all are subject to testing, those who do get picked must comply, and must test at an off-site location, no longer located in the arrival hall.

Interestingly, once their testing is conducted, tourists are not required to isolate while waiting for their results. If positive, they will be contacted by authorities and expected to isolate for 10 full days from the date of issue, regardless of having been allowed to walk freely at first, and irrespective of holding a vaccine certificate or recent recovery proof.

Are Canada’s Travel Rules Even Consistent At This Point?

To further add to the confusion, the province of Ontario, of which Toronto is a part of, has recently ended a five-day quarantine requirement residents faced when testing positive for Covid. Evidently, this goes against the federal resolution and the ten-day isolation period still applying to some tourists landing in Ontario.

The apparent inconsistency has been noted by visitors: as reported by Global News Canada, a San Francisco-based traveler was recently selected for testing upon arrival at Toronto Pearson Airport, soon after the program’s resumption. The result was allegedly delayed for ‘several’ days, until she contacted the lab for further information.

She was then ‘shocked’ to find out it came back positive and she needed to isolate for 10 days from that date. The San Franciscan assumed it was a ‘typo’, considering she and her partner had recovered from the disease recently and had voluntarily isolated for twelve days ahead of traveling. This mounted up to nothing, as a quarantine order was still issued.

The woman, Mrs Denise Chenier, had received a booster dose and reportedly obtained negative rapid antigen tests at their final destination in Thunder Bay while waiting for the official results, suggesting the detailed PCR test picked up a former infection. Prior to that, she had already spent a number of days in Canada quarantine-free.

Mrs Chenier is not the only complying American having their vacation plans ruined by the testing policy: roughly 1 in 20 travelers are affected, with both vaccinated and unvaccinated U.S. citizens facing mandatory isolation when failing to obtain a negative PCR. For that reason, having persistent viral levels is still a concern, at least in Canada.

The Problem With False Positives

Nearly three years into the pandemic, now we know PCR tests may pick up both current and recent infections, even if the patient has already recovered. In some cases, the viral load remains high for weeks or months after the disease has subsided; this can lead to the so-called ‘false’ positives, and in Mrs Chenier’s case, or an arguably unnecessary 10-day quarantine.

Ottawa is aware of these problems, but continues defending PCR usage as the ‘gold standard’ for detecting the virus. Conversely, yet another infectious disease specialist, Colin Furness of the University of Toronto, has rebuked the Canadian Government’s decision, joining a growing list of experts calling for these hurdles to be removed.

‘You’re shooting at a dartboard with a blindfold on‘, argues Mr Furness, in light of the recent data showing fully vaccinated, or recovered individuals who are perfectly healthy and non-infectious may still be required to quarantine when issued false positives. He believes the ‘current plan’ is not at all effective in doing disease surveillance, nor transmission control.

Besides the obstacles facing the tourism sector, these random tests are partly to blame for Canadian airports’ tarnished reputation as some of the worst for delays in the world. With an average 5,000 people being marked for testing each day, bottlenecks at the border have become more common, as well as agitation and other incidents.

What Are The Rules For Entering Canada Right Now?

This is the criteria for being eligible for travel to Canada today:
- Non-Canadians must be fully vaccinated*
- They must have no Covid symptoms upon boarding
- All travelers must download the ArriveCAN app, where they must upload their personal information, including proof of vaccination
- Pre-departure tests are no longer required, but random on-arrival tests are taking place
- Masks are required on all Canada-bound flights, trains, and other cross-border service
*Recovered individuals may be eligible to enter when presenting proof of at least one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, or at least two doses of another Covid vaccine accepted by Canada, alongside their recovery certificate issued within the last year

Read More:

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Canada Is The Only Country In The World Adding Travel Restrictions

Border Officers Are Being Replaced By Electronic Gates For Faster Immigration

Air Canada Is Reporting Improvements, But Should Canadians Still Be Wary Of Travel?

Air Canada and United Expand Travel Connections Between Canada And The U.S.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

↓ Join the community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 2, 2022
Fly To Hawaii This Winter For Under $250 From These U.S. Cities
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Despite rising prices, travelers are still heading to Hawaii in droves. Perfect weather all year, unsurpassed natural beauty, and world-class beaches draw millions of visitors to Hawaii year after year. 2022 is no exception, and high costs do little to deter travelers from planning a trip to The Aloha State. Hotel rates are rising, and Hawaii tacks another 10.25% (13.25% in Honolulu) to the bill in the form of a transient accommodations tax.

Average nightly hotel rates are $390 per night, and Honolulu is 2.94% more expensive than New York City when rent isn’t factored in. Luckily, there are still affordable direct flights to this tropical paradise. Below are U.S. cities flying directly to Hawaii for under $250 this winter. The lowest fares were chosen between December 1st and February 28th, and all fares were found on August 30^th, 2022. Only fares with at least a free carry-on were considered. Unless otherwise specified, the days offering the best savings are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Seattle, WA & Portland, OR (SEA to HNL & PDX to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with two airlines from Seattle or Portland; Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Fares from both cities were equal.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 15 from Seattle, 6hr 5 from Portland
- Cost: $229
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Alaska Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 25 from Seattle, 6hr 10 from Portland
- Cost: $229
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Sacramento, CA (SMF to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with two airlines from Sacramento; Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 40
- Cost: $180
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 45
- Cost: $141
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
San Francisco, CA (SFO to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with three airlines from San Franciso; Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 40
- Cost: $179
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Alaska Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 40
- Cost: $159
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
United Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 30
- Cost: $159
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $35 Checked Bag
San Jose, CA (SJC to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with three airlines from San Jose; Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 35
- Cost: $199
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Alaska Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 55
- Cost: $129
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 40
- Cost: $103
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
Los Angeles, CA (LAX to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with four airlines from Los Angeles; Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 5
- Cost: $129
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Alaska Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 5
- Cost: $129
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 55
- Cost: $103
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
United Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 53
- Cost: $169
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $35 Checked Bag
Long Beach, CA (LGB to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with two airlines from Long Beach; Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 5hr 55
- Cost: $159
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr
- Cost: $103
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
Ontario, CA (ONT to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with one airline from Ontario; Hawaiian Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr
- Cost: $164
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Santa Anna, CA (SNA to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with one airline from Santa Anna; Hawaiian Airlines. Flights are minimal and only operate on Saturdays.

United Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr
- Cost: $209
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $35 Checked Bag
San Diego, CA (SAN to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with three airlines from San Diego; Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 15
- Cost: $129
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Alaska Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 15
- Cost: $199
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 15
- Cost: $103
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
Las Vegas, NV (LAS to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with two airlines from Las Vegas; Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 30
- Cost: $210
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 20
- Cost: $164
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
Phoenix, AZ (PHX to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with two airlines from Phoenix; Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 50
- Cost: $210
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
Southwest Airlines
- Flight Duration: 6hr 45
- Cost: $210
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, 2 Free Checked Bags
Austin, TX (AUS to HNL)

Travelers can fly directly to Honolulu with one airline from Austin; Hawaiian Airlines. Flights are limited and only operate Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 8hr 40
- Cost: $239
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
BONUS FARE: Boston to Honolulu (BOS to HNL)

The east coast didn’t get any love in this list. Flights to Hawaii are more limited and more expensive the further east you look. However, travelers can fly to Honolulu directly with Hawaiian airlines out of Boston this winter without going too far over $250. Flights operate on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Hawaiian Airlines
- Flight Duration: 11hr 20
- Cost: $280
- Luggage: Free Carry-On, $30 Checked Bag
This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

↓ Join the community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 2, 2022
Border Officers Are Being Replaced By Electronic Gates For Faster Immigration
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Years after the proposal was first made, it seems automated border control is finally being rolled out on a global scale, especially after this chaotic summer of travel, when wait times at airports increased dramatically and reduced immigration staff only exacerbated the problem. With several countries in Europe, and now even Canada, introducing electronic gates for ID verification, it may not be long until border officers are no longer needed.

Electronic gates, shortened to e-Gates, allow for a smooth, much faster border experience, where incoming international travelers are required to scan their passport using a machine that reads their biometric information and confirms their identity. When eligible, they are not required to speak to border staff, or undergo any thorough checks.

To all the passport stamp collectors out there, we’re sorry to inform you, but this might soon be a thing of the past:

Why Are e-Gates Becoming More Popular Now?

Although they were not actively discussed until recently, e-Gates have been around for years, introduced to the public as far back as 2007 at Australia’s Brisbane Airport. At the time, this proved an ambitious endeavor, as biometric passports, the main requirement for e-Gate eligibility, had been first issued only a year earlier.

While many expected the concept to swiftly spread to other hubs, the global prevalence remained fairly low. Except when they are available to returning citizens, tourists can only check into countries using an e-Gate in select locations, most notably Europe and a handful of North American entry points. Even then, not all tourists are allowed to ‘scan their way in’.

This year, the demand for travel surged, and as a result, airports struggled to cope with the number of arrivals amid a crippling worker shortage, which involved a lack of border staff. Inevitably, e-Gates rose to prominence once more and proved an useful resource in speeding up identity checks and ensuring the smooth influx of arrivals.

They Are Part Of Canada’s Strategy To Speed Up Border Movements

Now, more nations are turning to e-Gates in a bid to solve their operational issues. This month, Canada’s Toronto Pearson International Airport announced plans to implement a ‘fully digital’ border in the future, replacing bureaucratic procedures with simple-to-use kiosks. These are not just empty promises, either: the first step has already been taken.

As reported by Global News in early August, Canada launched new e-Gates for customs declaration at Toronto’s busy Terminal 1, after the airport came under fire for putting passengers through hell as the worst for delays in the world. As of now, the sole purpose is to ‘combat airport delays’, and border officers remain very much a fixture in the airport.

In order to use an e-Gate arriving in Toronto, Americans who have been permitted to fly to Canada must fulfill two simple requirements:
- Be 16 years of age or older
- Hold a valid biometric passport
The only downside? They still must speak to a border agent, though briefly, once past the e-Gate. Automated border control is a complex project, and numerous security measures need to be in place in order to protect both traveler information, and national security, so it may be some time still until Canada’s border is truly seamless.

Nevertheless, this is an indication Toronto is trialing new technologies to improve its tarnished reputation as a reliable airport. According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the newly-opened e-Gates give international visitors ‘another option to present their customs and immigration declaration‘, as opposed to having it authenticated manually by staff.

Uzbekistan Latest To Add e-Gates For International Border Crossings

Unlike Canada, known to be an overly conservative nation when it comes to borders, the largely unheard-of, but up and coming Central Asian destination of Uzbekistan has just been added to the limited list of countries tourists can enter automatically with biometric passports. Beginning September, eligible travelers will be free to use the fast-track service.

The system is based on biometric information and allows tourists to cross the country’s border easily, ‘with minimal involvement of border control officers‘. This is a landmark moment for Central Asia, seeing that, up until now, the roll-out of the technology had been mostly restricted to the Western World. If anything, this is proof universal change is coming.

As of now, e-Gates are available at Samarkand International, serving the city of Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited in the region and a rising international hub. According to Gayrat Nematov, General Director of Air Marakanda LLC, responsible for the airport management, this is a ‘logical solution for any modern transport facility‘.

Judging by Nematov’s statement, we understand that Uzbekistan’s goal is to minimize wait times travelers face when landing, as well as de-bureaucratize the border. The e-Gates are expected to boost tourism significantly, and they can also be deployed at other road and pedestrian checkpoints. After all, Uzbekistan is a doubly landlocked country.

e-Gates Are Already Available To Americans In Other Major International Destinations

Beyond Canada and Uzbekistan, other nations have already deployed the measure. When entering the United Kingdom, Americans and citizens of 36 other countries can use the fast, automated lanes in locations where they’re available. Those include all the major entry points, such as London Heathrow, London Gatwick, the Eurostar terminal, and Edinburgh Airport.

Similarly, neighboring France extended the e-Gate privilege to Americans recently, granting them smoother entry in at least six international airports:
- Roissy-Charles de Gaulle (the number one airport in Paris)
- Orly (second busiest in Paris)
- Bordeaux
- Lyon
- Marseille
- Nice
Within Europe, U.S. citizens have other options, such as entering via Portugal, where they must be over 18 years old to be granted e-Gate access. Moreover, being the first in Italy to have installed the technology, Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci is another European airport ensuring Americans are screened faster, both electronically and more efficiently.

Other airports in Italy where Americans aged 14 and over are eligible include Milan Malpensa, Treviso, Venice Marco Polo, Bologna and Verona. Following a successful e-Gate screening, they may still be required to speak to a border agent. Other popular countries that are known to have opened e-Gate lanes for Americans are:
- Australia
- Finland*
- Germany**
- Mexico***
*Only when departing Europe’s Schengen Area from Helsinki International – not available on arrival unless you are an EU, EEA, Switzerland, Japan or South Korea national

**Registration for the German EasyPASS card is required

***Only to Global Entry members

As you might have noticed, some countries have fully switched to automated e-Gates, while others are opting for a hybrid system based on enrollment programs or even nationality, but one thing is clear: this is a global trend worth observing.

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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September 1, 2022
This Is The Happiest City To Vacation In The U.S. This Year
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It seems the soaring cost of travel is no match for Sin City’s appeal. While many believed the entertainment capital would suffer heavy losses amid the cost of living crisis, when purchasing power and travel demand inevitably drop, Las Vegas has never been hotter, both figuratively and literally, being named the happiest city to vacation in the U.S. this year.

Recently, we have received reports of hidden hotel fees skyrocketing, as well as other price hikes across a number of venues as the busy destination struggled to come to terms with a surge in arrival figures, and the unstable economy. Even then, the entertainment capital far exceeded expectations, with tourism increasing by a surprising 37% in 2022 alone.

Now, Club Med has an explanation for all this Vegas love, which hasn’t faded in the slightest in spite of a turbulent year:

How Have Experts Come To This Conclusion?

Club Med is a travel operator known for offering luxury all-inclusive vacations around the world. Yearly, they reveal the world’s ‘Top 10 Happiest Holiday Destinations’, based on metrics that travelers normally take into account when planning a trip. Yes, ‘happy’ isn’t just an abstract idea: according to Club Med, it can be measured.

One of them is ‘safety levels’. As the group states, the lower crime rates are, the more ‘at ease’ tourists feel when traveling. Notably, security has been a cause of concern for Americans visiting a number of places in Mexico lately, with some major cities south of the border deemed risky destinations, including Guanajuato and Guadalajara.

Now more than ever, travelers are acting with caution. Other than the crime and safety indexes, important factors considered for the survey were:
- Pollution Index
- Cost of domestic beers*
- Number of outdoor activities per 100,000 population
- Number of day trips per 100,000 population
- Number of spa and wellness centers per 100,000 population
- LGBTQ+ friendliness
- Overall happiness score
*0.5L draught in a restaurant

Conducting the research, Med Club resorted to ‘multiple sources’, compiling data on 50 of the most visited destinations globally. For instance, their pollution, crime and cost of beer data can be traced back to Numbeo, while Tripadvisor provided the ratio for outdoor activities, day trips and availability of wellness centers.

Lastly, Nomadlist is referenced for information on the happiness levels of individual cities and their openness to diversity – namely, how well LGBTQ+ travelers are perceived, and whether there are sexually-diverse activities and events. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Las Vegas ranked at number two within the top ten – the highest-charting in the U.S. and North America.

With an index of 73.7/100 among surveyed U.S. destinations, and 67.1/100 in the international ranking, Vegas faces off heavy competition from places like New Orleans, Washington and Nashville domestically, as well as Barcelona (Spain) and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) globally. In case you were wondering, this is why Sin City remains at the top of its game:

Vegas Love Is At An All-Time High

Vegas is simply the place to be if you’re looking for unique experiences, one of the most important items assessed on this research. Considering other data from Hostelworld, which concluded that, in a post-pandemic world, 74 per cent of travelers are favoring natural world experiences, we can definitely see why Vegas is still such a strong name.

Not only it is a global hub known for the opulence of its top-rated luxury hotels lining the iconic Vegas Strip, and lively nightlife, it is the official gateway into the Nevada wilderness. As Club Med affirms, there are over 40 outdoor activities listed in Vegas and the surrounding zones, explaining its popularity among both partygoers and nature lovers.

Within close proximity to the Grand Canyon National Park, it serves as a hub for millions of adventurers seeking to explore America’s desolate, most famous landscape. Some of the tours visitors can book through Tripadvisor include:
- Deluxe helicopters tours of the Grand Canyon
- 7-day VIP tours of the Grand Canyon
- Kayak tours of the Emerald Cove
- Mojave Desert day trip
- Antelope Canyon
- Primm Valley and Hidden Valley
On the safety front, Club Med mentions it has a ‘high safety score’, corroborating other findings that the Nevada jewel is, indeed, a ‘low risk’ destination. Unlike these other five vacation spots, where the risk of getting scammed is substantially higher, you’ll be under no particularly high threat from robbers strolling Downtown Vegas.

Lastly, Vegas is an LGBTQ+ haven, featuring countless inclusive bars, clubs, and even gay resorts. It is also home to some of the nation’s most sought-after live attractions: stars like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion, Gwen Stefani, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, widely recognized as gay icons, all had, or still have concert residencies in the city.

Perfect for all traveler profiles, Vegas is without a question the happiest vacation destination in America, and this far outweighs its biggest weakness: low affordability. Even then, we find it unlikely those dreaming of a Vegas adventure, and carefully planning it, are doing so on a super strict budget.

After all, this is a city synonymous with splurging.

The Top 10 Happiest Destinations In North America
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. New Orleans, Louisana
3. Vancouver (Canada)
4. San Francisco, California
5. Washington, D.C.
6. Los Angeles, California
7. Portland, Oregon
8. Toronto (Canada)
9. Halifax (Canada)
10. Nashville, Tennessee
Top 10 Happiest Destinations In The World
1. Bali, Indonesia
2. Las Vegas, United States
3. New Orleans, United States
4. Barcelona, Spain
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
6. Budapest, Hungary
7. Vancouver, Canada
8. San Francisco, United States
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
More information on the list and its methodology can be found here.

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 1, 2022
Travel Mexico Like A Local, These Are Mexican’s Top 9 Vacation Destinations
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Mexico is a beautiful and versatile country with so much culture, nature, and fascinating locations to explore. Mexicans enjoy their local experiences and choose the best destinations for holidays and vacations.

If you love Mexico, a new report might provide more insights on what to do and what to visit in this fascinating country. The online travel agency Best Day recently shared data about Mexicans’ vacation habits.

According to the information shared by the Mexican travel news site Reportur, in the report, Best Day shared the top 9 destinations for locals:
- Cancún
- Acapulco
- Puerto Vallarta
- Playa del Carmen
- Riviera Maya
- Riviera Nayarit
- Ixtapa
- Mazatlán
- Huatulco
The report studied Mexican searches and reservations and those were the most visited during the last few weeks. Santiago Elijovich, Best Day Vicepresident, said: “Mexicans really want to go on vacation and summer is an ideal time to do it. This was reflected in this season’s sales since we obtained an increase of 68% compared to the summer of 2021, which makes us very happy”

It is not a surprise that top destinations like Cancun, Acapulco, and Puerto Vallarta rank among the first results. We’ve also noticed common grounds with American vacation interests: Cancun ranked as the most popular destination for American travelers.

Mexicans Prefer Beach Destinations

Best Day’s report stated that Mexicans prefer beach destinations. The top 9 locations are famous for the beautiful beaches with delicious weather and pristine waters, and represent 70% of the sales for vacation purchases made by Mexicans.

The travel agency also highlighted that 40% of Mexicans prefer to book vacation bundles —including hotels and transportation or tours—, and 33% only hotels. The average stay in the Mexican Caribbean is 5 days and on the Pacific coast 4 days. Mexicans have also made reservations for 3 to 4 people on average, demonstrating that summer is ideal for family vacations.

Best Day’s CEO, Alejandro Calligaris, said that it was a good sign to see Mexican travelers’ interest increase. Calligaris stated: “Surviving this crisis and learning from it points us to several opportunities for the future. It became clear that, after so many restrictions, people really want to travel, and it is a dream that we can make come true. And that comes with new travel habits, which we have to be aware of.”

Mexicans and foreign visitors are eager to enjoy the beauty and the relaxing benefits of the spectacular Mexican beaches.

About The Top 9 Destinations

The favorite destinations in the Mexican Caribbean are Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya. The Quintana Roo region has been one of the favorites for travelers from all over the world and it also pleases Mexican travelers’ interest.

Visitors can find all kinds of accommodations, from impressive all-included resorts with private beaches and unique attractions to hostels and rentals that fit everyone’s budget. All visitors can have unforgettable experiences, from VIP access with all kinds of luxury to beautiful public beaches —like Playa del Carmen’s public beach and super tasty and cheap restaurants with incredible tacos and ambiance.

On the Pacific coast, literally on the other side, Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, Ixtapa, Mazatlán, and Huatulco offer adventure travelers incredible ocean experiences and also hidden spots for those who prefer quiet locations.

Puerto Vallarta offers travelers amazing nightlife and a great variety of restaurants. The Riviera Nayarit has “Magic Towns” —recognized by the Mexican government for their preserved cultural and historic richness— such as Sayulita and Mexcaltitán. Surfers and culture explorers can have a blast at many spots in this region.

At all destinations, visitors can enjoy common and popular activities like snorkeling, catamaran sailing, kayaking, and fascinating tours to explore local nature. From impressive cenotes in the Quintana Roo region to amazing rock formations in the Pacific. And, of course, admire and enjoy the Mexican culture and have a taste of its rich gastronomy.

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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August 31, 2022
Best Fall Travel Deals For U.S. Travelers, According To Expedia
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With summer coming to a close and fall on its way, travelers are eager to plan their autumn trips. Fall travel may not see the same demand as summer, but the financial benefits make it worth it for many. Travelers looking to save can take advantage of the fact that flight prices tend to lower once the summer travel season ends. Luckily, Expedia has announced several destinations offering the most savings for travelers looking to get away this fall.

Expedia looked at average prices for round-trip flights and/or accommodation rates when assembling their list of fall travel deals. Rates were compared between two different periods: between June 1^st and August 30^th, 2022, and between September 6^th and November 15^th, 2022. In doing so, they were able to find the destinations that offered the most significant savings for fall when compared to summer prices.

Destinations Offering Most Savings

12) Mexico City
- Average Flight Price: Down 10%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $63
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Seattle (SEA), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and 21 more U.S. Cities
11) Cancun
- Average Flight Price: Down 10%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $135
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Seattle (SEA), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and 39 more U.S. Cities
10) Paris
- Average Flight Price: Down 15%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $126
- Fly Direct (To CDG) From: New York (JFK), Seattle (SEA), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and 17 more U.S. Cities
9) Rome
- Average Flight Price: Down 15%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $99
- Fly Direct (To FCO) From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 8 more U.S. Cities
8) Chicago
- Average Flight Price: Down 20%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $161
- Fly Direct (To ORD) From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 181 more U.S. Cities
7) San Diego
- Average Flight Price: Down 20%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $217
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 64 more U.S. Cities
6) London
- Average Flight Price: Down 20%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $126
- Fly Direct (to LHR) From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 27 more U.S. Cities
5) San Francisco
- Average Flight Price: Down 25%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $154
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Seattle (SEA), Atlanta (ATL), and 86 more U.S. Cities
4) Barcelona
- Average Flight Price: Down 30%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $125
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 6 more U.S. Cities
3) Portland
- Average Flight Price: Down 35%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $136
- Fly Direct (to PDX) From: New York (JFK), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 56 more U.S. Cities
2) Los Angeles
- Average Flight Price: Down 35%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $169
- Fly Direct From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Seattle (SEA), Atlanta (ATL), and 109 more U.S. Cities
1) Seattle
- Average Flight Price: Down 45%
- Average Hotel Per Night: $184
- Fly Direct (to SEA) From: New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), and 89 more U.S. Cities
Fall Travel Tips

According to Expedia, travelers can do several other things to save more this fall. If possible, travelers should plan their vacations for the week of September 26^th if they are planning to stay in the United States. Average ticket prices are predicted to be nearly half off compared to summer fares for this week, making it the best time to fly off for your fall vacation.

If you are planning to jet off to another country, your best week for travel will be the week of October 10^th. Ticket prices will be about 20% less than they were over the summer, and the crowds won’t be a problem. In both cases, flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday will offer the best fares.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 31, 2022
These Are The Most Reliable U.S. Airlines Amid Travel Chaos

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The Department of Transportation (DOT) has compiled an illuminating report which highlights the most reliable airlines in the United States amid a prolonged period of mass travel delays. With airlines canceling or delaying flights in their thousands for several months now, it’s hard to find a traveler that hasn’t seen their travel plans either affected or completely ruined. With the help of this report, travelers will know which airlines they stand the best chance of not having their vacations affected with.

As the chaos surrounding the travel industry shows little chance of slowing down as we enter what’s expected to be a frantically busy fall and winter travel season, doing the research on which airlines are the most reliable has never been more worthwhile for American travelers. Here’s a lot at what the DOT has to say about the messy situation that travel finds itself in, plus a look at what the report has to say about the significant rise in customer complaints over the past few months.

DOT Report Findings – What Travelers Should Know

The handy travel report published by the DOT, called the Air Travel Consumer Report, was published on their website on Friday, August 26th. The report took into account airline operational data compiled for the month of June and for the second quarter of 2022, providing data on issues such as the on-time performance of airlines, the number of consumer complaints received, mishandled baggage claims and mishandled wheelchairs and scooters.

As a whole, the airline industry in the United States scheduled some 602,057 scheduled flights in June, of which 18,473 (3.1%) of which were canceled. Whilst those figures may not appear particularly high, the previous month, May, saw just 2% of all flights canceled, whilst June last year saw only 1.6% of their flights canceled. With almost twice as many flights canceled compared to last year, and the appetite for travel growing, the figures are bound to concern travelers with travel plans this year.

However, some airlines performed notably better than others. Hawaiian Airlines had the fewest canceled flights, with just 0.1% of their scheduled flights being canceled. Alaska Airlines was close behind with just 0.7% of their flights canceled, whilst Frontier receive the bronze medal with a cancellation percentage of just 1.1%. For travelers looking to get away, those are the airlines they should be booking with to minimize the chance of their vacation getaways going up in smoke.

The airlines with the highest cancellation rates are some of the biggest names in the aviation industry worldwide. American Airlines was the worst offender, with 4.4% of their flights canceled – well above the average of 3.1%. The second most-affected airline Delta, with 3.9% of their flights in June being axed, whilst United saw 3.5% of their flights canceled, cementing their status as the third most unreliable airline in the US.

Yet what Delta lacks when it comes to flight cancellations, they make up for with on-time arrival. The DOT reported that Delta saw 78.4% of its flights arrive on time – slightly below the best performing airline Alaska with 78.7%, and just in front of Hawaiian, which had an on-time arrival rate of 77.2%. The three worst offenders in this category were Allegiant Air, 59.0% JetBlue Airways – 61.3% and Frontier Airlines, with on-time arrival rates of 59%, 61.3% and 69.5% respectively. If travelers have connections or bookings they need to meet, Hawaiian and Alaska look like the way forward.

All those cancelations and delayed flights led to a shocking increase in the number of complaints handled by the DOT, with the 5,862 received by the department representing a 270% in the overall number from the same time period before the pandemic in 2019. Most of these complaints concerned cancellations, delays, or other deviations from airlines’ schedules, whilst a significant volume were also related to refunds. There was also an increased number of complaints regarding the treatment of travelers with disabilities and discrimination, whilst the mishandled baggage figures also showed an increase – further cementing the idea of traveling with carry-on only.

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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August 30, 2022
These U.S. Airlines Were The Worst For Mishandled Luggage Amid Travel Chaos
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Air travel has been a significant source of frustration for those looking to get away after years of restrictions kept them at home. Delays, cancellations, and lost luggage have plagued travelers this summer and will likely continue into the fall.

Knowing which airline to fly with, which airports to fly from, and tips for navigating the chaos may help travelers get through unscathed. But what about their bags? Recent data from The Department of Transportation (DOT) shed light on which U.S. airlines were the worst for mishandling luggage amid this year’s travel chaos.

Major airlines considered were; American Airlines Network, Alaska Airlines Network, Allegiant Air, Delta Airlines Network, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Jetblue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines Network. “Networks” include the operator’s self-branded planes and its branded codeshare partners. (For example, Envoy Air, or American Eagle, is a branded codeshare partner of American Airlines.)

2019 Vs. 2022: Surprising Results

To get an idea of how bad 2022 has been, we’ll compare it to the last pre-pandemic year’s data, 2019. This year saw a massive increase in travel demand as the world reopened its borders after years of restrictions. Unfortunately, the aviation industry as a whole is wildly understaffed compared to before the pandemic. This led to the chaos we all witnessed this summer.

Data Source: Department of Transportation

Surprisingly, several airlines performed better this year than they did in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. Allegiant, Hawaiian, Frontier, and United all performed better this June than they did during the same period in 2019. This is based on mishandled bags per 1,000 bags enplaned. American, JetBlue, Delta, Spirit, and Southwest performed worse this June than in June 2019.

Top 6 Worst Performers For June 2022
1. American Airlines – 11.3 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 108,095 Total Bags Mishandled
2. JetBlue Airways – 7.5 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 9,672 Total Bags Mishandled
3. United Airlines – 6.9 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 42,689 Total Bags Mishandled
4. Delta Airlines – 5.6 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 47,502 Total Bags Mishandled
5. Spirit Airlines – 5.6 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 6,737 Total Bags Mishandled
6. Southwest Airlines – 5.5 Bags Per 1,000 Mishandled & 62,337 Total Bags Mishandled
Another surprising result of this comparison is how close the rates were between June 2019 and 2022. Of the airlines that performed worse in 2022, several were very close to their 2019 metrics. With the headlines practically screaming about lost luggage this summer, it’s surprising that the rates were nearly the same for many major airlines. At first glance, this doesn’t seem to add up. However, when you dig into the totals for mishandled bags, it becomes more apparent.

Mishandled Luggage Totals – Why Was This Year Worse?

In total, June 2022 was only about 3.9% worse than June 2019 regarding mishandled luggage. So what was all the fuss about this summer? Less than 4% may not sound like much, but that equates to an additional 10,655 mishandled bags for June 2022. Again, 10,655 may not sound like a large number compared to 283,713 pieces of mishandled luggage. However, the additional thousands of people affected this year by the increase probably feel differently.

Another factor to consider when comparing June 2022 to 2019 is the definition of mishandled luggage per the Department of Transportation; “The number of mishandled bags displayed in these tables represents the number of check bags that are lost, damaged, delayed, and pilfered, as reported by or on behalf of the passenger, that were in the airline’s custody for its reportable domestic nonstop scheduled passenger flights.”

Considering this, we can see a few reasons for this year’s significant increase in chaos and negative sentiment due to a relatively small increase in mishandled luggage. While the total number of mishandled bags may not be overwhelmingly large, this metric doesn’t consider how long travelers are waiting for their luggage to turn up. Piles of lost luggage, luggage turning up in dumpsters, and luggage ending up in cities that the owners have never been to have all been reported occurrences this summer.

The aftermath of lost luggage is much worse this year than in 2019. Thus, creating a massive difference in the perception of the problem. Even though the actual numbers have not increased exponentially, the issues travelers face due to lost luggage are worse than in 2019. If there was ever a year to avoid checking a bag, it’s this one. If travelers must check a bag, they should minimize the chances it will make it onto the DOT’s next report. As the summer season comes to an end, we can all hope that the aviation industry will improve the travel experience as it continues to recover from the pandemic.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 30, 2022