What to know about coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel

We know things are changing by the minute and, as travellers ourselves, it can be overwhelming to know what to do. That’s why we’ve gathered the information you need on the latest restrictions and changes, whether you have travel booked or are considering future travel. From new filters and alerts to partners’ cancellation policies, we can help you make travel decisions for you and your loved ones.

 

Note: As things change, so do policies. We’ll do our best to stay on top of things, but always be sure to check with a provider directly.

  Health Advisory – Do not travel

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What you need to know

Airlines

What to know if you need to cancel or change upcoming flight bookings, including the airlines with flexible change policies.

Hotels

What to know if you need to change upcoming reservations, including the hotel chains with flexible change policies.

Car hire

What to know about hiring a car during coronavirus, including lowered age restrictions and flexible change or cancellation policies.

Travel restrictions

See a current travel policies by country as we map out COVID-19 restrictions and advisories around the world.

Flexible search filters and travel alerts

We’re continually updating search filters and providing timely travel alerts within your results.

Flexible Options filter

As airlines and hotels update their policies, we’ve added a filter that lets you sort your search results to see the providers offering free cancellations (usually in the form of travel credits) or waiving change fees. (As always, it’s good practice to check a provider’s full policy when you book.)

 

New alerts on the KAYAK site

Route-specific alerts: For destinations that may have current travel warnings issued by authorities, we’re including alerts on our site when you search.

Most frequently asked questions

As the COVID-19 situation is constantly developing, it’s always best to first check your local health authority’s travel recommendations before you make or change plans. Stay informed here.

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KAYAK now offers a Flexible Options filter on the search results page to help you stay informed about airlines and hotels waiving change and cancellation fees, plus current travel advisories – so you have all the information you need to make a smart decision.

Travel insurance is generally a good idea when travelling internationally (be sure to also check for possible coverage offered by your credit card companies). However, if you’re purchasing insurance due to concerns related to COVID-19, be sure to read the policy carefully, as rules may differ by company. It also may not adequately cover cancellations or offer the travel flexibility you’re seeking. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine whether you’re covered.

KAYAK is a search engine, not a seller, so reach out to the flight provider who completed your booking (check your credit card statement if you’re unsure). Please consider they’re likely overwhelmed with requests, so unless you’re travelling in the next few days, we recommend filling out an enquiry online. They’ll get back to you as soon as they can.

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Just like with flights, KAYAK is a search engine, not a seller, so reach out to the hotel/travel provider who completed your room booking (check your credit card statement if you’re unsure). Please consider they’re likely overwhelmed with requests, so unless you’re travelling in the next few days, we recommend filling out an enquiry online. They’ll get back to you as soon as they can. More questions? You can visit our support page.

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