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AAA offers shutdown travel tips

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, October 10th 2025 at 13:31 GMT by The Daily News Online
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AAA Launches “Shutdown Travel Tips” to Keep Road‑Trippers Safe and Informed

When the world was forced to halt and pause in the face of the COVID‑19 pandemic, the travel industry found itself in a state of flux. Flights were grounded, borders were sealed, and the usual rhythm of road trips and cross‑country adventures came to a grinding halt. In response, the American Automobile Association (AAA) unveiled a new set of “Shutdown Travel Tips” to help its members navigate the uncertain terrain of traveling during lockdowns and ongoing health restrictions. The initiative, detailed on the AAA website (see [ AAA Travel ]), blends practical safety guidelines with practical tools to keep drivers and families on the road with confidence.

1. Embrace Flexibility – Your Ticket to Stress‑Free Trips

One of the most salient themes in the AAA article is the value of flexibility. Whether you’re booking a last‑minute flight, a rental car, or a hotel stay, AAA recommends always choosing a “flexible” booking when possible. Flexible tickets allow cancellations or changes with little or no penalty—an essential safeguard when travel restrictions can shift overnight.

“A flexible booking is the smartest travel decision you can make during a shutdown,” says AAA’s travel director. “It gives you the breathing room to change plans as new information becomes available.”

The AAA site hosts a quick‑reference chart that compares flexible and non‑flexible rates across major airlines and rental car companies. Members can also use the “AAA Travel Calculator” to estimate the total cost of a flexible itinerary versus a standard one, factoring in potential refunds and change fees.

2. Insurance Is More Important Than Ever

The article emphasizes that the pandemic has highlighted gaps in traditional travel insurance policies. AAA’s “Travel 911” service is now being promoted as a companion for road‑trippers. The service includes:

• Medical Coverage – Up to $1 million in emergency medical expenses for you and your family.
• Trip Cancellation Protection – Reimbursement for non‑refundable expenses if you’re forced to cancel due to a pandemic‑related restriction.
• Vehicle Assistance – 24/7 roadside assistance that’s still available even when local service centers may be closed.

AAA’s coverage also extends to “COVID‑19 related incidents” such as the need for medical evacuation or extended quarantine, provided the policy’s terms explicitly cover “pandemic” scenarios. The article links to a detailed FAQ that explains coverage nuances, allowing travelers to see exactly what a standard AAA policy covers during a shutdown.

3. Health and Safety Protocols for the Road

Unlike flights, which are subject to federal and international health protocols, road travel is largely self‑regulated. AAA’s tips include:

1. Pre‑Trip Planning – Download the CDC’s travel guide (link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html) to get the latest information on state‑by‑state travel restrictions, mask mandates, and testing requirements.
2. Vehicle Sanitization – AAA recommends using a “portable disinfectant spray” that is EPA‑approved for vehicles. The article supplies a printable checklist for cleaning high‑touch surfaces such as steering wheels, seat belts, and door handles.
3. Mask and Hand‑Sanitizer – Pack a supply of N95 masks and hand sanitizer with at least 60 % alcohol. AAA suggests keeping them in a dedicated compartment that’s easy to reach while driving.
4. Driver Rotation – If you’re traveling with a group, plan a rotation system so that drivers can rest and avoid fatigue—an extra layer of safety that reduces the risk of accidents.

4. The Road Ahead – Staying Connected

The article stresses the importance of staying connected, not only to the outside world but also to AAA’s own support network. The AAA mobile app (available for iOS and Android) now includes a “Travel Alert” feature that delivers real‑time notifications about road closures, weather alerts, and sudden changes to travel restrictions. Members can also connect directly to AAA’s 24/7 hotline from within the app, which is especially useful if a roadside assistance request coincides with a local lockdown.

In addition to AAA’s own services, the article suggests subscribing to newsletters from the Department of Transportation and state transportation agencies. These resources provide up‑to‑date information about traffic patterns and any emergency travel advisories that might affect your route.

5. Accommodation Tips for the Uncertain

Finding a place to stay during a shutdown can be challenging. AAA recommends using “booking platforms with flexible cancellation policies.” Their partner list includes major players such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia, all of which have recently rolled out “flexibility” options for reservations made between May and October. The article includes a side‑by‑side comparison of cancellation timelines for each platform, highlighting the most advantageous options for travelers who might need to pivot on short notice.

AAA also encourages travelers to look for accommodations that offer “no‑contact check‑in” options. These not only reduce the chance of virus transmission but also streamline the process in a time of increased scrutiny and reduced staffing at many hotels.

6. When the Road Turns Back – What to Do

Finally, the article acknowledges that “shutdowns” are often temporary, and plans may shift as restrictions lift. AAA’s “Return‑to‑Road” checklist advises members to:

• Verify the latest travel advisories and re‑confirm reservation details.
• Ensure their vehicle’s maintenance is up‑to‑date before embarking on a long trip.
• Check that any travel insurance still covers the new travel dates.
• Remain flexible, because even a brief re‑implementation of lockdowns can happen at short notice.

Bottom Line

AAA’s “Shutdown Travel Tips” is more than a set of guidelines; it’s an actionable playbook that blends flexibility, safety, and proactive planning. The article’s links to the AAA Travel portal, the CDC travel guide, and various booking platforms give readers a one‑stop resource hub. For AAA members—or anyone planning a trip during a period of uncertainty—the article offers a reassuring roadmap: check the latest regulations, opt for flexible bookings, secure appropriate insurance, and stay connected with both technology and the trusted AAA network.

Whether you’re an annual AAA member or a casual driver looking for reliable guidance, the “Shutdown Travel Tips” article is a valuable resource that helps ensure you can keep moving forward—safely, responsibly, and with peace of mind.