A lot of places around the world have been on lockdown, which is only natural given that we are facing the most contagious and widely threatening pandemic we have had in a lifetime. However, even as many countries are starting to pull back on the restrictions they had in place, and travel is becoming more possible for some, it’s still wise to be safe. Here are a few tips to that end.
Practice caution no matter what
Remember the essential coronavirus hygiene advice whenever you’re outside of the home, whether this is for a couple of hours or a couple of weeks. Bring face masks, sanitizer, and cleansing wipes. Wash your hands as often as possible. Avoid touching your hands and face. Practice social distancing. These rules should be followed no matter where you go.
Keep updated on local restrictions
Not every country is following the same playbook in regards to the pandemic. Each is dealing with its own rates and trends of infection and recovery. As such, whenever you are planning any travel, check how to fly safe and arrive well during COVID-19 based on the countries in question. Make sure they are open to the kind of traveler you are (whether citizen or international) and whether it’s open for the type of travel you’re planning, be it essential or tourism.
Staying safe on the ground
If you are traveling by your own car, you have more control over your own surroundings. As such, planning a road trip should follow the usual tips, such as ensuring you take as many stops as necessary. However, you should also prepare for the external sources of contamination you might find along the way. Pack cleaning supplies, your own food to eat along the way, and be sure that you take precautions with any fuel pumps, food wrappers, or other external surfaces you touch along the way.
What about flying?
There are airports that are still open throughout the varying stages of lockdown, and they are only likely to become more accessible as travel restrictions ease off. However, air travel may change, including a need for more detailed scans in security and proof of immunization as soon as such a thing becomes available. As such, keep checking the news from any airport or airline you are flying with if you do get to book a flight.
If you’re staying at accommodation
Most businesses in the hospitality industry are going to assure you that they are following the best practices to help guests and employees stay healthy. When choosing a place to stay, make sure they are putting in the effort for enhanced cleaning and social distancing in shared areas, as well as masking for staff and guests and improved training on hand-washing procedures and the like.
Even if you can’t travel just yet, there is a distinct possibility that you will be able to in the coming months. No matter what, it’s vital that you continue to act as if the coronavirus is a present danger when you’re traveling. It may well be.
