Is Travel Worth the Hassle?

I seem to be having a lot of discussions lately with friends, neighbors, family and colleagues about travel. They keep wanting to pick my brain about travel. Specifically, is travel worth the hassle these days? My answer has been surprising to all those who know me and my passion for travel.

Is travel worth the hassle right now? No! That’s right. I said, “No!” This is the worst time in my lifetime for travel. Ridiculously long security lines and other TSA issues. Flight interruptions. Flight cancellations. Flight delays. Civil unrest. Crime. War. Terrorism. High gas prices. Stagflation. Disease (more on that below). Cruises changing itineraries in mid-cruise. Cruises cancelling destinations. No fly zones. Hefty airline surcharges. Higher prices for restaurants and even fast food. Not to mention a strong anti-American sentiment worldwide.

Now before you call me a Debbie Downer, let me assure you that this too shall pass. I am still a travel gal. I believe it enlightens us, empowers us, rejuvenates us, and restores us! We learn about the world and ourselves when we travel. But it cannot do that if the stars are not aligned, so to speak.

So what I am doing is putting a ‘hold’ on traveling for the moment but I am planning a couple of trips for late 2026 and early 2027. This gives me something to look forward to and gives me a chance to put together the best possible deals. Also, I hope it affords me the chance to save up for bigger and better adventures.

But what if you just really need to get away this summer? My recommendation is to get creative.

By Air

Domestic flights are good now that the TSA situation has been resolved. Expect higher total ticket costs because the airlines will pass along the higher fuel costs to passengers in the way of higher ancillary fees, including baggage fees and fuel surcharges. For example, Delta is now charging $45 for first bag, $55 for second bag and $200 for third bag on domestic and short international flights as of April 2026. If you have an airline credit card or select credit cards, you may be able to avoid baggage fees.

Save as much as you can on costs by being flexible on travel days and airports. It is cheaper to fly through some airports than others. Also, it is cheaper to fly on certain days than others. Set up alerts on Google Flights to keep up with changing fares.

If you can get by with a carry-on only then you can avoid the baggage fees altogether. I like Google Flights, Kayak, ASAP Tickets, Momondo and CheapFareGuru for finding low airfares. Also, be sure to check regional airlines and use points if you are an airline loyalty member. Flights are less likely to be cancelled or delayed early in the day so keep that in mind when booking your flight. Flights with less ‘legs’ (think direct flights or flights with only one stopover or transfer) will cost a bit more but offer greater security against delays and missed flights.

FYI: You will need a Real ID to fly anywhere or you will have to pay a fee.

By Car

Another option is to drive and enjoy a good old-fashioned road trip! The possibilities are endless! Some good options include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Route 66, Coastal Maine and Utah’s national parks. Click here for great trip destinations and planning! Also, be sure to check out AAA’s Trip Canvas, TourBook and TripTik!

By Train

Something else worth considering is a train trip. Amtrak has new and improved cars and routes! Check out all the options! Did you know that Amtrak offers all-inclusive vacation packages? Plus, it is a wonderful way to travel. There are cozy sleeper cars, dining cars, passenger cars and observation cars. And no traffic jams or road work! Just a smooth, steady ride along some of the most scenic parts of America. Did I mention that fares are fully refundable and there are no cancellation fees? Be sure to check out their ‘discounts and deals’ page.

FYI: America is turning 250 years old this summer!

ten tips to pamper yourself, stay healthy, & have fun while traveling

Something to consider is to take a short vacation during the summer and use the rest of your vacation days in the fall or during the holidays. Explore places within easy driving distance of your home that you have never visited or maybe enjoy a staycation with a few day trips. Plan fun activities like picnics, rafting, hiking, biking, state parks, outlet or thrift store shopping, unique museums, zoos/aquariums/science centers, theme parks and ballgames.