I stated a couple weeks ago in my newsletter that three of my planned trips had cancelled but I still had two more trips planned. Well, …those got cancelled too.  So, I have no travel plans at all at this time.  But I have learned through this experience that it plays to your advantage not to cancel trips.  You are better off postponing and rescheduling for the future if possible.   Let me explain.

         If you cancel a trip, you will normally be charged penalties.  Many of the travel providers are making exceptions because of the Coronavirus outbreak.  But the standard practice of travel providers (yes we will return to standard practice) is to provide future credits instead of providing a refund.  During this time, some providers are giving guests a choice of taking a refund or future credit.  By taking the credit, guests are provided an extra percentage of value toward their next trip.  If the provider had to cancel, they provide even larger incentives for you to take the credit and rebook.

         So, here is my point.  Take a look at your options when your travel plans change.  If you pay more penalty by taking a refund, consider the alternate of taking a credit if one is presented. I know people are not comfortable with leaving their money with someone else.  But if you come out ahead by doing so, consider it a wise investment with your money by reducing the loss or even making gains by taking a future travel credit option.