How to "keep traveling" when you can't go far

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips.

It’s summer, so there’s a good chance you had a trip planned in the coming weeks. And there’s a chance you may have had to cancel said trip, or downsize it. While the disappointment of that can be pretty tough to process, there are still a few ways to scratch that travel itch with confidence, even if it means putting off your original plan.

ALSO: Everything you need to know about changing your travel plans right now

Book now, travel later

It’s never a bad time to dream, and start planning your next trip. Given the current flexibility of some airlines, the availability of so many free-cancellation hotels on Orbitz and generally lower prices, you could get your travel fix now by starting to plan a trip a few months out, knowing that it won’t cost you a fortune to make changes later if you need to.

Make it a staycation

Have a summer adventure without leaving your area. Staycations are a great option if you’re looking for an easy getaway, spending a couple of nights in a hotel or vacation rental close to home, and finally getting around to checking out some of those attractions in your area you’ve always been curious about.

Take a road trip

If you had planned to fly somewhere but had to cancel, consider switching to a road trip. The beauty of traveling by car through the U.S. is that you can drive to just about anywhere—beaches, state parks, mountains, monuments and more. We’ve got plenty of road trip ideas for you right here!

Camp or glamp

If you really want to get away from it all, consider glamping. This comfy, outdoorsy option is easily bookable on Orbitz, as are RV’s in some areas (just search “camper” or “RV” as the property name under the “Vacation Rentals” tab).

Look for fully refundable hotels

Most Orbitz hotels offer free cancellation, so consider booking refundable hotels vs. non-refundable. You can easily see which properties offer this in your Orbitz search results. Sometimes prices vary, but it could be worth paying a little more when flexibility matters.

Check which airlines are currently waiving change fees

Many major carriers are currently letting customers book trips now that they can take later—with no change fees, just in case you do have to cancel later. You can find a continually updated list of them here. If you already have a trip booked, many airlines have temporarily updated their policies for that, too, though call volumes are very high right now.

Take an armchair journey

Some people are just most comfortable staying home right now, and we see you. Take this time to read all those inspiring travel novels (The Alchemist, World Walk and On the Road, come to mind). Or Netflix and chill with a great travel themed movie like Under the Tuscan Sun, Lost in Translation or The Beach. Or take this time to find some incredible Instagram travelers to start following. Of course we recommend @Orbitz but we also like @oneikatraveler, @kristasimmons, @hey_ciara and so many others. Take this time to get inspired!

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