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Where Can You Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic in [date:custom:Y]?

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As we head into winter, here’s a list of where you can travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fall roadtrip
Fall roadtrip Source: Getty Images

Where can Americans travel now?

While travel has become an increasingly difficult feat, filled with anxiety over testing, social distancing and mandatory mask requirements, Americans can currently still travel to numerous destinations both domestically and abroad.

While the CDC recommends staying home to reduce the chance of spread of the coronavirus, they provide helpful guidelines on best practices to follow if you decide to travel — such as wearing masks and social distancing, and checking local ordinances before traveling.

If you’re looking for a safe and socially distanced getaway, here’s a list of where you can and can’t travel to within the United States and abroad. The following list does not account for any other travel restrictions besides pandemic-related alerts.

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Which countries can Americans travel to right now?

While the pandemic continues to ebb and flow, there are several countries open to Americans right now, though they nearly all still have restrictions in place. The following list includes the countries Americans can travel to as of December 2021.

Click on each country to learn about their specific entry requirements and Covid travel restrictions. Restrictions typically include things like mandatory Covid tests before entry, required proof of vaccination and/or vaccine boosters and filling out a health form. Some countries have complicated entry requirements, like entry only through a neighboring country. It's imperative you do thorough research into your travel requirements before booking your trip.

Savvy traveler tip: You'll also need to make sure to check on the requirements for re-entering the United States from your destination.

Which countries are closed to Americans right now?

The following countries are either completely closed to Americans or have Covid restrictions that are so severe it would be difficult for most Americans to enter at this time. Click on each country for further details on their travel restrictions.

States you can travel to: A-G

If you're looking for places to go during quarantine, the following states currently do not have coronavirus-related travel restrictions for intrastate travelers (these are subject to change):

Alabama: Home to national civil rights sites such as the Freedom Riders National Monument and the cities of Selma and Montgomery. This fall and winter, you can arrange a self-guided tour through the state of Alabama this fall and winter.

  • Most entertainment venues (including tourist attractions), restaurants and bars are open at limited capacity, so be sure to check specific rules at your given destination.

Alaska: Home to striking landscapes and a myriad of outdoor activities, Alaska is a great place for a unique domestic getaway. From enormous glaciers to rugged forests teeming with wildlife, Alaska is one of America's finest gems.

  • There are currently no restrictions in place for vaccinated travelers. Click here for the most up-to-date Covid information.

Arizona: As temperatures start to drop, it’s the perfect time to cross some major bucket list items off your list – including (but not limited to) the Grand Canyon and Lake Mead.

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • "Visit Arizona", Arizona’s official tourism website, has an updated list of open and closed attractions across the state.

Arkansas: Plan your next outdoor adventure for Hot Springs National Park or Buffalo National River, offering an impressive number of hiking trails and water activities.

  • A list of coronavirus-related travel resources for Arkansas can be found here.

California: Enjoy fewer crowds at popular destinations during the upcoming offseason. Whether you want to taste wine at Napa Valley or head up to Yosemite National Park, California awaits you.

Colorado: Known for its national parks, trails and monuments, Mesa Verde and Rocky Mountains are just some of the destinations worth putting on your bucket list.

  • Nonessential travel is not recommended. Click here for coronavirus-related travel updates.

Connecticut: Home to Yale University, charming New England towns, and seafood galore, Connecticut is a wonderful East Coast destination. From New Haven to Hartford, head to this state for a relaxing escape.

  • Click here for up-to-date coronavirus details and information.

Delaware: As the summer traffic slows down, this small coastal state remains charming in the fall and winter. From Rehoboth to Dewey Beach, plan your postcard-worthy getaway.

Cape Henlopen in Delaware
Cape Henlopen in Delaware, courtesy of Getty Images.

Florida: It's no wonder that the Sunshine State is a popular destination in the winter — come find your beach escape here.

  • For the most updated travel information and coronavirus updates, click here.

Georgia: From Savannah to Jekyll Island, Georgia should be on your mind. With mild temperatures in fall and winter, it’s the ideal time for your next vacation.

  • Any COVID-19 resources and travel updates can be found here.

States you can travel to: I-M

Idaho: If you're looking for mountainous landscapes and endless outdoor adventure, Idaho is the destination for you. Perfect for social distancing amidst breathtaking surrounds, head here for fresh air and endless views.

Illinois: Chicago is the gem of the midwest. From sparkling Lake Michigan to magnificent architectural wonders, there is much to see, do and eat in Illinois.

Indiana: For family camping fun, visit the Indiana Dunes National Park to walk or bike over 50 miles of trails.

  • Check county-level coronavirus alerts here for any travel advisories.

Iowa: Experience a kaleidoscope of colors on a trail ride at the Jester Park Equestrian Center or on a hike through Lewis & Clark State Park.

  • Businesses have started to reopen with limited capacity, but will depend on the county. For coronavirus traveler information, click here.

Kansas: Kansas isn’t as flat as you might expect, with must-see Flint Hills and 12 byways with stunning drives. Plus, the state has many civil rights landmarks.

  • The reopening of businesses is contingent on local orders, but find state-wide coronavirus updates and restrictions here.

Kentucky: If caves are your thing, check out Mammoth Cave to learn about thousands of years of human history. Or, visit Cumberland Falls State Park for breathtaking waterfalls, otherwise known as the "Niagara of the South."

Cumberland Falls State Park in Kentucky
Cumberland Falls State Park in Kentucky, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • To check the most up-to-date coronavirus information, click here.

Louisiana: Visit the Bayou country and check out Louisiana’s paddle trails. Indulge in the Cajun culture and cuisine; the latter is a true foodie’s paradise.

Maine: From Acadia National Park to the Appalachian Trail, Maine has much to offer its visitors. Try some of the country's best lobster and admire candy-striped lighthouses dotting the sandy coastline.

  • For coronavirus information, visit this page.

Maryland: Nestled by the Chesapeake Bay, the Maryland Crab & Oyster Trail is a must. With crab season wrapping up and at the start of oyster season, visiting during the fall and winter is a no-brainer.

Massachusetts: The heart of New England, Massachusetts has everything from top-notch sports to superb universities. Head to Boston for some clam chowder and other great eats.

  • Click here to view updated coronavirus information.

Michigan: Nothing beats Michigan’s iconic Great Lakes in summer, and the fall is a great time to visit for peak foliage.

Houghton County in Michigan
Houghton County in Michigan, courtesy of Getty Images.

Minnesota: Stargaze in the Northern Lights at Voyageurs National Park or canoe at Boundary Waters for an outdoor experience of a lifetime.

  • For updated information on Minnesota’s coronavirus reopening plan, click here.

Mississippi: Discover music and history with the Mississippi Blues or Country Music trails and tons of jazz museums.

  • All 13 state welcome centers are open. Click here for updated COVID-19 travel information.

Missouri: Get a taste of the Midwest this fall. Drive through Route 66 and take a visit to the Ozark Mountains for top-notch outdoor recreation.

Montana: In all of its untamed beauty, visit all nine of Montana’s legendary national parks, from Glacier National Park to Bighorn Canyon.

Glacier National Park in Montana
Glacier National Park in Montana, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • Some sites may not be open yet, so it’s important to check their respective websites. For updated COVID-19 travel alerts, visit this page.

States you can travel to: N-S

Nebraska: If you didn’t know, Nebraska’s slogan is "Honestly, It’s Not For Everyone." But don’t sleep on Scotts Bluff National Monument and Niobrara National Scenic River for your next fall adventure.

  • For coronavirus traveler recommendations, click here.

Nevada: Besides the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, Nevada has no shortage of outdoor activities. Visit the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe, or the Great Basin National Park for a beautiful getaway.

  • For coronavirus-related tourism updates, check here.

New Hampshire: Head to New Hampshire for striking fall foliage and quaint New England towns. From Mt. Washington to White Mountain National Forest, this state is full of places to explore.

  • For coronavirus details and information, click here.

New Jersey: From the sandy beaches of the Jersey Shore to bustling Jersey City, New Jersey has so much to offer its visitors. Explore Liberty State Park and take in magnificent views of the New York skyline across the Hudson River.

  • For coronavirus information and details, click here.

New Mexico: Head to New Mexico for a taste of the vast American Southwest. From the rugged Rocky Mountains to charming Santa Fe, you'll never be lacking things to do in New Mexico.

New York: In the city that never sleeps, there's always something exciting going on in New York. Beyond NYC, New York is known for the iconic Niagara Falls, the glamorous Hamptons, and so much more.

  • Click here for up-to-date coronavirus information. Note that you may be required to show proof of vaccination before entering restaurants and other public establishments.

North Carolina: From driving through the Blue Ridge Parkway to hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, relish in the cool weather and mesmerizing fall foliage. Nearby, check out the Biltmore Estate and Asheville for breweries and good eats.

Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • Visitors are advised to check local guidance for the most accurate information. Click here for coronavirus travel resources.

North Dakota: Camp at dozens of national and state parks where social distancing is no problem. Where history and wildlife intersect, you’ll adore the Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

  • Click here for the state's updated list of coronavirus-related measures.

Ohio: From the bustling streets of Cleveland and Cincinnati to the shores of the beautiful Great Lakes, Ohio is a classic Midwestern destination. Check out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or visit The Ohio State University.

  • Up-to-date coronavirus information can be found here.

Oklahoma: Defined by its Western and American Indian heritage, drive through the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway to get to the Wichita Mountains and Lake Lawtonka.

Oregon: An underrated West Coast destination, Oregon has outdoor activities and craft breweries galore. Visit Crater Lake National Park for hiking, water activities and spectacular views, or bike down the Oregon Coast to appreciate both mountains and sea.

  • For any and all travel alerts in Oregon, click here.

Pennsylvania: History buffs can explore from Gettysburg to Valley Forge National Historical Park and beyond. With the longest fall foliage season than any other state in the United States, Pennsylvania is a must-see destination for its autumn leaf-changing colors.

Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania
Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • For travel guidance and resources during coronavirus, click here.

Rhode Island: Head to Rhode Island for charming colonial towns and sandy beaches. This seaside state is home to Gilded Age mansions, top universities and more.

  • For coronavirus information, visit this page.

South Carolina: Enjoy views and crisp fall weather from the Cherokee National Foothills Scenic Highway all the way down to Charleston.

  • For more COVID-19 travel information, visit this page.

South Dakota: Known for Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and its wide array of national parks, make a point to visit South Dakota this season to take the road less traveled.

  • For more COVID-19 travel information, check out this page.

States you can travel to: T-W

Tennessee: Take a much-deserved mountain trip and explore Gatlinburg to the Tuckaleechee Caverns, and bask in shades of red, yellow and amber.

  • For COVID-19 travel safety resources and updates, visit this page.

Texas: Everything’s bigger in Texas: Discover the trails in Big Bend National Park or the Texas Panhandle.

Big Bend National Park in Texas
Big Bend National Park in Texas, courtesy of Getty Images.

Utah: With world-renowned ski resorts, book a mountain lodge to enjoy a winter sports getaway in Utah. An hour’s drive from Salt Lake City, you can access 10 world-class ski destinations, from Park City to Powder Mountain.

  • The list of coronavirus guidelines for national and state parks, public lands, cities and ski resorts is updated daily and can be found here.

Vermont: Head to Vermont to explore gorgeous alpine landscapes and charming small towns. Full of ski resorts and hiking trails, Vermont is a fantastic destination for Covid-friendly outdoor activities.

Virginia: Experience autumn in all its glory cozying up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, home to Shenandoah National Park.

  • For a comprehensive list of coronavirus-related updates, click here.

Washington: Autumn in the Pacific Northwest is truly one of a kind. Beyond Seattle, adventure through the alpine regions of Mount Rainier and the North Cascades for a trip of a lifetime.

Seattle and Mount Rainier in Washington
Seattle and Mount Rainier in Washington, courtesy of Getty Images.
  • A list of coronavirus-related travel guidelines can be found here.

Wisconsin: Head to the Apostle Islands off of Lake Superior for a scenic, adventure-filled trip. From caves to lighthouses, this is a fantastic Midwest destination.

  • For information on traveling during the coronavirus, click here.

Wyoming: Explore Grand Teton National Park and Devils Tower National Monument for some serious hiking and wildlife adventuring.

  • National parks and monuments remain open to the public with some limitations, and any travel updates can be found here.

States with travel restrictions

  1. Hawaii: Vaccination and Covid testing records are required for travelers to Hawaii, but the requirements are complicated and ever-changing, so we recommend visiting the Safe Travels Hawaii website for the most up-to-date information.

Best airline credit cards for international travel 2022

If you're fully vaccinated and planning to take a trip abroad, you'll need a great airline credit card to get you there. Co-branded airline credit cards can offer perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, airport lounge access and more. Plus, the miles you earn on your card can be used toward free flights on your preferred airline. The best credit cards for international travel will also come with some amount of travel insurance and purchase protection to make sure your trip is protected, and will avoid foreign transaction fees so you won't need to pay extra when using your card internationally.

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Responsible travel tips during COVID-19

  1. Do your research. Make sure you're aware of the travel requirements and restrictions in your destination, and the requirements for re-entry into the U.S. before you go.
  2. Wear a mask and wash your hands often. Stay protected by continuing to social distance and maintain good hygiene to avoid getting sick and getting others sick while traveling.
  3. Get vaccinated and get your booster. The best way to keep yourself and others safe while traveling is to get vaccinated and make sure you're diligent about getting your booster shot as well.
  4. Prepare for delays. With national shortages and ever-changing Covid rules, you'll need to make sure you come prepared for long wait times and unexpected cancellations. Arrive early at the airport and make sure your travel plans are flexible.
  5. Buy travel insurance. If your trip gets canceled due to Covid-related complications, you'll want to make sure you're covered. Be sure to purchase travel insurance or check to see if you're covered by your credit card.

COVID-19 travel FAQs

Where can't Americans travel?

There are several countries that are currently closed to Americans, including places like New Zealand and Australia. Be sure to check each country's most up-to-date travel restrictions before planning your trip.

Where can Americans travel right now?

Both domestically and abroad, Americans can now travel nearly everywhere in the world. That said, most international destinations have some restrictions and rules in place, so you'll want to be sure to check the most up-to-date information ahead of time.

Where can I travel right now?

If you are fully vaccinated, you are now able to travel to most places. However, it's important to check the restrictions and requirements in place in your destination before booking your trip.

What are the countries open to Americans?

Most of the world's countries are now open to Americans with some restrictions. See our above list for the most up-to-date countries open to Americans and be sure you can fulfill the requirements before you go.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?

While there are few Covid restrictions in place for American visitors to Mexico, the U.S. Department of State currently urges citizens to rethink travel to Mexico right now due to high Covid-19 levels and crime-related issues.

Is it safe to fly now?

If you are fully vaccinated and take proper precautions, like washing your hands, wearing a mask, and social distancing, you should be safe to fly.

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