Let me preface this by saying this concern is nothing in comparison to what the people who are very sick, the families that have endured the loss of their loved ones and the business owners who are struggling to stay afloat are dealing with right now.

But if you've clicked into this article because you're confused about canceling travel in the coming months, you've come to the right place.

The questions probably swirling inside your mind — Will I lose money that I cannot afford to lose? When can I reschedule? What rescheduling options do I have? — have swirled inside mine as well. As a reporter currently in the process of canceling and rescheduling a trip of my own at the end of April, I've learned there are some essential steps to follow and facts to know before making a decision.

Speaking of decisions, mine was cemented when Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said, "I certainly wouldn't get on a plane for a pleasure trip. It would have to be something that was really urgent."

But making the decision to cancel your flight is one thing. Canceling it effectively, and incurring the least amount of negative financial impact, is another, as one travel expert told me.

"Things are changing so rapidly," the expert said. "[They] need to check with airlines, hotel, and cruise lines, as they all have different policies set … “If [they] are purchasing for future travel, check the cancellation policy."

That's a lot to unpack. So let's do it one by one. Here's what I learned during this crash course of traveling during a pandemic.

KNOW THE CANCELLATION POLICIES OF YOUR AIRLINE

Know your options. For my trip, I learned that Delta Airlines will let me use my ticket at any point in 2020. I will have to pay the difference if an airline ticket goes up in price. I learned that, as far as the hotel I booked, I can reschedule to go at any point in 2020 as well. Of course, your mileage will vary, as each airline's policies are different.

PENALTY FEES

Know when cancellation fees start. For example, the travel agency I am working with needs me to cancel before a certain date to avoid a $100 cancellation fee. Know the dates for when you have to make decisions to avoid fees.

GET YOUR FACTS FROM CREDIBLE SOURCES

The pandemic is evolving day to day, and where you get the facts is crucial. Here are a few good places to start.

So far, for information directly related to flying, go directly to the source. Each major airline has continous updates about prominent changes in their policy and flights.

 TAKE A BREAK

If you are getting overwhelmed, be it waiting on hold for a representative or not being in agreement with who you are traveling with, take a break. Yes, when there is money on the line, it can get stressful, but if you take a break, go for a walk or do something else, you can come back with a clear head to figure out a solution.

For additional guidance, head to the CDC and WHO's pages for travel tips.

QUESTIONS PEOPLE SHOULD ASK THEMSELVES BEFORE TRAVELING

Is it necessary to travel? Or can I travel at a later date?

What are the policies airlines and hotels have in place?

Do those policies change as time goes on?

Am I getting my information from a credible source?