Expert Tips For Traveling During COVID-19

While the world battles against the novel coronavirus pandemic, there are innumerable questions that are still left to be answered. One of them is the future of travel and tourism.

Traveling provides solace for the mind and energy to the body. People curate a vacation package for several reasons. But the benefits of traveling are the same for all. Spending time with oneself and loved ones help us in more than one way. 

It has been almost three months since international travel has been suspended. Many countries have also halted domestic travel. But off late, many countries are slowly coming back to normalcy. Traveling has started to resume slowly. 

Yet, the virus is still lurking in the corner. Thus, it is advised to act with caution to reduce potential transmission risk. 

Take note of the below tips while traveling to and from affected regions. 

1. Take the test:

Scientists are still researching for a viable vaccine and medicine for the virus. Until then, testing is an extremely important measure to be implemented. While measures such as lockdown and quarantine are issued in various places, travel experts suggest travelers get themselves tested before going on a vacation. 

Testing before undertaking a vacation would help health experts to identify potential carriers. If you exhibit mild symptoms or don’t have the test copy, then you cannot travel. 

Currently, many airports have introduced a system of preflight testing.

2. Medical and travel history:

Gone are the days when you just needed a passport and visa as the primary documents for traveling. As a post-COVID-19 traveler, you need to assess your medical and travel history. This would help your vacation package to go smoothly. 

Your medical history should state that you have been safe from major illnesses and coronavirus at least for the past six months. By providing your medical history to the respected authorities, you make their work easier. 

Speaking of travel history, authorities need to make sure you have not traveled to a COVID-19 hotspot zone for the last five months. 

Make sure you have these documents to avoid hindrances while traveling. 

3. Opt for road trips if possible:

Travel experts ask tourists to consider knowing about the potential risks of traveling via air and train. If you are in the situation to travel urgently due to reasons which cannot be compromised, then the only solution is to travel safely by following the best hygiene practices.

But if you want to travel to have leisure, you can choose to prepare a road trip vacation package. Tourists can plan a customized road trip as per their preferences. 

The pandemic is not off the grid. Hence, there are still safety measures to be taken. 

Foremost, be sure that your vehicle is maintained. Breakdowns may halt your vacation package. Check if the tires and engine are in good condition. 

Don’t plan while on the go. It is crucial to have an accurate plan and location at hand. Avoid stopping at too many places as it may pose a risk. 

4. Necessities to carry:

The new travel essentials are no more just toothbrush, shampoo, and moisturizer, but most importantly, mask and sanitizer. It is to be noted that the utmost hygiene should be maintained while traveling. It is suggested to keep the sanitizer at reach. Travel and health experts suggest tourists carry disinfectant wipes to clean doorknobs and handles. 

Depending on the surface, infected droplets may pose a significant risk. Ergo, gloves are a prerequisite. It helps you be safe from infected surfaces. Moreover, it is ideal while coming in contact with elevator buttons and switches. 

Travelers are urged to carry their food and linen. Many airlines and railways have stopped distributing these essentials since it may increase the transmission of the virus. 

5. Learning how and where to use sanitizers:

In the absence of soap and water, sanitizers do the trick. Alcohol-based sanitizers have proven to eliminate germs. What’s more important is not just using a hand sanitizer, but using a quality one. An effective sanitizer has at least 60% alcohol. Using a substandard sanitizer will not be effective and may cause skin allergies. 

Similarly, sanitizers are strictly not to be used in a car, and other vehicles. A few incidents that happened worldwide suggest that sanitizers, due to their alcohol content, may ignite the vehicle, thereby leading to fatalities. 

A possible replacement for sanitizers is a disinfectant wipe. It is a safer solution as compared to the former while in vehicles.

6. Maintain social distancing:

Social distancing is the new norm. It is to be followed at all costs while traveling. Planes have minimized the seating availability to make sure there is no crowd. Travelers need to maintain a minimum of 2 meters distance while outdoors. 

To be safe from potential risks, it is advised to add outdoor activities to your vacation package. Outdoor activities are conducted in large spaces, thereby helping people to maintain distance. Camping, hiking, and trekking are activities tourists can include in their vacation rather than attending events in closed spaces. 

7. Minimize human contact in the destination:

Travelers are advised to avoid going to large gatherings and places such as restaurants, hospitals, and shopping malls, unless necessary. 

The menu cards used in hotels come in touch with many people. It is the cardinal source of germs. Therefore, travelers need to make sure they consume food from safe places or prepare their meals.  

8. Don’t panic:

It is indeed a hard time for the world. But panicking won’t ease the worries. If you have decided to take the plunge, make sure to be calm and composed. 

In between wearing your mask and sanitizing your hands, refrain from stress and anxiety. Knowing the facts, and restrictions of the destination beforehand, this will help you travel safely and sound. Last but not the least; don’t be afraid to ask for help. 

Have a safe journey!