Are you prepping for a summer travel to Europe? Across travel platforms, I’m seeing travel concerns already happening – due to a few factors. Not only is the geopolitical situation with the Strait of Hormuz a concern, Europe now has a new Entry/Exit System (EES) implemented when travelers arrive at the airport. Europe and Asia are facing the threat of fuel shortages, I’ve seen a few travel accounts talk about how flights have been canceled or delayed. I’m not saying to cancel your plans, rather here are some tips to travel smarter this summer:
-Follow airline and airport media accounts. If any disruptions occur, usually those are the first to post and share updates. Airline contracts may vary with specific airports, especially when fuel shortages. They may prioritize larger airport hubs over smaller city hubs which could disrupt or delay intercontinental travel.
-Know your rights as a consumer! If an airline cancels or delays, make sure you know the terms and conditions of possible entitlements as the customer. Read the fine print! Some airlines may compensate you for any delayed items, others may offer compensation for something like points or airline credit. They’re all different. Separately, the USDOT has a whole page of flying rights for customers. This is an essential and yet fairly forgotten step in prepping for travel.
-Speaking of which, please buy travel insurance! I personally like Faye or Allianz. Check your credit card if they offer insurance coverage (like Chase Sapphire) as well if you are booking on that card. You may want to consider adding on CFAR coverage – Cancel For Any Reason – if you’re getting nervous about going through with plans.
-The new EES in Europe will take some time to implement. If you are landing in a Schengen Zone country, you will have to go through the process. As a US citizen with a valid passport, no application is needed. When you approach the Border Agent, they will do the biometric screening for you. I’m seeing reports of long lines. If you have a layover in any Schengen country, be sure that layover is a minimum of two hours because you will still go through the process. Check out this informational website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees. Again, NO APPLICATION is required. Anything that tells you so is a scam!
I hope this helps with your future travel plans and you feel more ready! Remember: I’m always here to also help you with travel prep logistics!
