Travel plans to Europe or Asia after years of COVID-19 restrictions, fluctuating ticket prices and airline staff shortages may be just as difficult to navigate in 2022 as they were in 2020.
WTOP’s Michelle Basch spoke with CBS News travel editor Peter Greenberg about the travel issues he’s seen firsthand.
Travel plans to Europe or Asia after years of COVID-19 restrictions, fluctuating ticket prices and airline staff shortages may be just as difficult to navigate in 2022 as they were in 2020.
Ever-longer queues, flight cancellations, stories of lost luggage and more have had a significant impact on traffic even as travel demand has eased.
WTOP’s Michelle Basch spoke with CBS News travel editor Peter Greenberg about what airline riders can do to navigate the trying times in the skies.
Greenberg told WTOP that, while airline fares are falling as predicted — some deals are expected in the coming weeks — those visiting parts of Europe or Asia should think about their luggage and the likelihood of getting stuck.
“I just got back from Europe and it’s a mess. It’s chaotic and it’s not going to get better any time soon,” he said.
Those traveling to Europe may end up losing their bags as airlines stop selling tickets for short and long-haul flights. Some like KLM Royal Dutch Airline are not allowing baggage at all, he said.
“So right now, the best thing to do is sit out the summer, at least for European flights, and go after Sept. 30,” Greenberg said.
He added that those trying to keep track of their luggage may be tempted to purchase airline tags or similar tracking devices for their case. However, they can be less effective than a buyer might expect – some trackers are only effective near Wi-Fi and others require specific types of equipment.
Instead, Greenberg suggested a two-article solution that’s much less expensive if someone can read your manuscript.
“The thing that is always safe for me is (to) open your suitcase, take a piece of very strong masking tape and a permanent marker and write on the inside of your bag your name, your mobile number and your email address ,” he said. . “If the outside tag of the bag is removed, they will have no idea who the bag belongs to.”
WTOP’s Michelle Basch contributed to this report.
