The Covid pandemic has changed the way we travel. Whilst the number of people travelling has returned to pre-pandemic levels in most countries, there are still plenty of things to be aware of before jetting off to the beach. For example, some countries still have very strict restrictions in place, so it’s important to check before you travel to avoid getting caught out.
Here are a few more tips for travelling safely as we move on from the past two years:
- Get travel insurance
If you’re planning to travel abroad, it’s important to get travel insurance from a provider like one sure insurance. Travel insurance will protect you in case you get sick whilst travelling and have to cancel your trip. It will also cover you if your flight is cancelled or if you have to change your plans due to new restrictions coming into force. With staff shortages in airports across the world right now, insurance is especially important to ensure you don’t leave short-changed. Be sure to read the fine print of your policy before you buy it, so that you know what is and isn’t covered.
2. Have your booster
Unless you’re exempt, you’ve probably had both doses of your vaccine by now. However, booster programmes have been a little slower off the mark. If you’ve not yet had your booster, get it as soon as you can. In that regard, you may want to visit Ham Parade Pharmacy (hamparadepharmacy.co.uk) or other such travel clinics near you that can help you get a booster shot. The longer ago you had your booster, the higher your immunity, so ideally you don’t want to be getting it the day before you travel. Some countries also require a booster shot as a condition of entry, so hold on to your proof of vaccination if you don’t want any issues at the gate.
3. Wear a mask in crowded spaces
One of the best ways to protect yourself (and others) whilst travelling is to wear a mask. A mask will help prevent you from spreading the virus if you are sick and protect you from breathing in the virus if someone nearby is infected. It’s important to wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth and to make sure that it fits snugly. Whilst mask mandates are no longer in place in many countries, it’s now just a common courtesy to wear a covering, especially in queues or enclosed spaces with little ventilation (i.e., a plane).
4. Social distance
Social distancing is still important, even with the majority of the population vaccinated. You should try to keep a distance of at least six feet from other people and avoid crowded places. If you can, travel outside of peak times so that you can have more space to yourself. After two years, you would think people would be pretty good at social distancing by now, but some people aren’t very good at respecting personal space. If you want more space whilst standing in a queue, use your luggage to take up more room – people should get the hint!
5. Get tested
Getting tested for Covid before you travel is a good way to protect yourself and others. If you test positive, you can cancel your trip and avoid spreading the virus. If you test negative, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are not sick and that you are unlikely to get sick whilst travelling. Be sure to get tested a few days before you travel so that you have time to get your results back – some airlines require a negative test result before travel, so make sure you have proof of your negative status if needed.
6. Maintain personal hygiene
Washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face are two of the best ways to protect yourself from coronavirus. Be sure to wash your hands often, especially before you eat or after you have been in a public place. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you do touch your face, be sure to wash your hands right away to prevent the spread of germs.
Wrapping up
As you can see, there’s still quite a lot to think about if you want to travel right now. Things are slowly improving, however, so it’s much easier to travel now than it used to be. Whilst restrictions are becoming less strict, sticking to the tips above should ensure you’re safe to travel, no matter what.