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Photo collage of a plane over a map, passport and two boarding passes with a tag that says  Pay Later
Money; Getty Images

Stir-crazy vacation-seekers are starting to book trips again, fueled by low fares, discounts, and “book now, pay later” deals from the hard-hit travel industry.

Nearly 90% of Americans plan to travel this summer, many more than once, according to a survey from the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). But while people are feeling more secure in booking getaways now that vaccination rates are up, there’s still plenty of uncertainty — like whether vaccine passports, COVID-19 tests and quarantines will throw a wrench in vacation plans.

About 60% of Americans think planning a 2021 vacation will be more complicated than in the past, according to the survey. Vacationers "are confused by the numerous COVID-19 restrictions, and they want a level of reassurance to make sure they know how to travel in the post-Covid era,” says ASTA spokeswoman Erika Richter.

To protect yourself, and your travel budget, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Should I snag a cheap travel deal now or hold off?