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By RYAN BUBAKER
Guest columnist
There is one main constant in the travel industry. Regardless of the generation, destination and duration of the trip, the consumer wants to travel with confidence. This has never been more important than now.
As many of us plan and embark on a journey, we can’t help but feel the weight of doubt. The reasons why consumers experience these uncomfortable feelings are changing – ie the potential for illness/disease, other health issues, travel costs, international tensions, regional conflicts, extreme weather, risk of natural disasters, etc. Along with fears often shared by many travelers, there are many different reasons why individuals may experience travel anxiety of their own. Maybe you’ve had a negative experience traveling before, or maybe this is your first time traveling alone.
In any case, in 2022 it is very common for travelers to want a sense of security and protection.
With all of this being said, I would argue that we are more prepared than ever to travel safely in many ways. From a technological point of view, this is 100 percent. While our parents and grandparents were tasked with traveling through travel agents and guidebooks, we have the ability to use resources like Google Maps, Airbnb, other travelers’ blogs, and more to get the most out of our trip. .
As a leader with Seven Corners, I can advise consumers to use travel insurance to protect their financial investments. I also have a platform to show users how technology can be a guide. Whether you’re traveling across the state, the country, or the world, here are three top tips to help you travel with more confidence.
- Certainty is created through research.
Just as you wouldn’t attend an interview without properly researching the company and opportunities, you don’t want to find yourself in a new destination without any knowledge of top attractions, dining options, and available transportation.
Two great resources that are sometimes not to be missed include the city’s tourism website and the Chamber of Commerce. Both typically list information about local establishments, upcoming events, places to stay, and parking availability. These forums will help you decide what activities are available and appropriate for the ages you are traveling with.
Another way to learn more about your destination is through YouTube videos and TikTok videos of other individuals showing past travel experiences in a specific area and usually highlighting their greatest moments from their trip.
- Your mobile device should be your best friend.
We often see consumers looking for travel opportunities when they want to disconnect from the technology they use in their daily lives. This is completely understandable; However, this is not the right choice, especially when traveling long distances or going to new destinations. With just a few clicks on our phones, we can share our new arrival time with loved ones, book our flight tickets and contactless hotel check-in.
The industry itself is starting to rely on technology like never before, in part because of the pandemic. In fact, data.ai’s Winter 2021 reports show a 20 percent increase in travel/navigation app usage compared to previous months and times of the year. Travel apps are available, and it’s smart to use them. If you’re not sure where to start, the Apple App Store and Google Play Store have some of the best free and paid travel apps available today.
- Use technologies that promote your safety
Now, there are a number of technologies you can use to ensure the safety of yourself or your group while on the go.
Companies like Seven Corners offer 24/7 communication through multiple channels like mobile apps, text messaging, WhatsApp and more. This is a growing trend in the industry with many insurance, airline, accommodation booking and rideshare companies prioritizing round-the-clock communication with their customers. Apps like “Find My” let you share your location with select individuals, helping you track their whereabouts and stay in touch with each member of your party.
Resources like Sherpa are available to navigate changing travel requirements and restrictions around the world. Finally, keeping up with local news from around your destination is a tried and true way to stay safe while on vacation.
A trip to Disney World with your family has a completely different energy than a ski trip with friends, a conference with colleagues, or your student’s study abroad semester in Europe. In all these situations, your safety should be a priority, and technology is here to support you every step of the way.
Ryan Brubaker serves as chief information officer and executive vice president of Seven Corners, a Carmel-based travel insurance company.
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