If you are planning on flying these days - some advice

[question everything]

[Walleye]

1. And if you act up, federal police will be waiting at the airport for you

[róisín_dubh]

2. I'm happy I don't have to fly domestically.

I'm leaving for England in a few weeks, but I will be driving to NJ to fly out of Newark as opposed to taking a domestic flight from my local airport (Pittsburgh).

[unweird]

3. PIT Travel

We just flew out of PIT 2 weeks ago and then the wife flew out last Saturday. Only problem we encountered was a missing flight crew that pushed our itinerary back six hours. All flights on Delta which I crossed the million mile mark with them on my return trip. Wear a comfortable mask and you should be fine.

[central scrutinizer]

4. You may also need proof of a negative Covid test

Within 72 hours of departure. Hawaii requires this.

[Zeitghost]

6. Only if you are not vaccinated

At least for HI.

[FakeNoose]

5. Thanks, but I'll probably never fly anywhere again

If I can't go in my own (or a close relative's) car, I probably won't travel.

Maybe in the future I might consider taking an Amtrak train - but not this year.

[slightlv]

12. I'm with you

I'll probably never fly again, either. It's either drive or go by train. I've not done the latter yet, but hubby and I've been talking about it more and more lately - even doing the train as the event, itself (without a destination in mind, per se). Going just for the "romance of a sleeping car, the autumn leaves turning, etc.

I can't see ever putting myself thru the indignity of getting onboard a plane. I've got too much metal in my spine, one artificial hip at the present time, and looking at the need to replace my left hip early next year. I can't pass thru the security gate at my local cop shop without setting off every bell and whistle; I sure won't pass thru TSA's gates unscathed. And at 65 now, I'm not stripping down and giving myself and anyone else around me the horror show of the hour.

I'd rather life go a whole lot slower, calmer, and more peaceful, too, Torchlight. We so rarely go anywhere, I'd rather save my money and enjoy the "getting there" as well as the destination. That's what it used to be like in the old days of flying -- the days when you used to "dress up" to get on a plane! And you were always on your best behavior - just because! I really miss those old days of modest civility. We still had more than a modicum of fun. But people were respectful of each other through it all. I do miss that.

[Torchlight]

7. Amtrak for me and mine this year.

Last year too. Lots less frenzied and cut-throat customer base. The cars are roomy, well-vented, and bringing our own snacks is a definite plus. Security is a breeze, boarding and unboarding is as simple as walking across a parking lot and everyone seems so much quieter than airports and airplanes.

Sometimes, a nice, easy peace and quiet, and the lack of the agitated, convulsive and maniacal passengers more than makes up for the loss of speed.

[EX500rider]

8. Most of us don't have the time or $ for that

Tampa to LA is 96 hours by train and costs $311 one way.

Spirit Airlines, $147 round trip, 8 hrs with a 2 hr layover in Dallas.

[Torchlight]

10. We booked no-increase tickets from TX to Chicago for Christmas in August

and got two two-way ticket for $175 each. I think a lot of it comes down to having your itinerary and schedule far in advance.

And since half the time of the trip is sleeping, the increase in time is still a far better fit for my disposition than the frantic, feverish pitch of airports and planes during the holidays.

[Trailrider1951]

9. Yep, Amtrak for me as well

I took a trip last June and loved every minute of it. Passengers are required to wear a mask at all times aboard the train, and can be put off at the next stop if they violate this requirement. You are not confined to your seat, and you may walk around if you get tired of sitting. Bring your own food and drink (no alcohol if you're in coach) and I brought straws so I could drink without removing my mask. Great scenery, friendly people. Train travel is my favorite way to travel!

[question everything]

11. Beautiful! Maybe next summer

[LetMyPeopleVote]

13. Thanks for the warning

[MissB]

14. I'm flying across the country in about a week

Dh and I are going to visit our oldest for thanksgiving. We leave before and return well after.

Other than the hotel and a few meals out, we will mostly be hanging out with our son at his house. Should be fun!

We are all vaccinated and boosted.