Since the beginning of 2020, the entire planet has been shaken by the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its tragic effects on health, the economy, businesses, society, and our lives as a whole.
To reduce and slow down the spread of the virus, most countries around the world have imposed massive and individual lockdowns as well as suspended much of the activity of many industries, including, of course, the travel industry, both tourism and business travel. Travel restrictions were a fact and citizens around the world were forced to put their travel plans on hold, in anticipation of the pandemic’s effects unfolding.
Hence, after the summer, and while the countries are now making their efforts to return slowly but steadily to the norm, at the same time a strong mass mood for traveling has returned, after so many months of fear and restraint.
This news may make us smile again, but COVID-19 is still here and is still a threat. That is why travelers need to be fully informed and completely safe during their trips, either domestic or abroad. Keeping that in mind, here are all the things you need to know if you decide to travel amid the pandemic
Examine all risk factors
Before planning a trip, you will need to consider all the potential risk factors for you and those traveling with you. Do you or a fellow traveler fall into the high-risk category (meaning you are elderly, have an underlying illness, etc.)? Do you have information that COVID-19 cases have increased in the last few days in your destination? How is the local health system organized in your destination, regarding the coronavirus?
Local travel rules and regulations
Each country or region has its own laws, rules, and regulations regarding travel, many of which were created specifically in response to the pandemic. In fact, in some countries travel restrictions are still in force today, while many impose self-quarantine 14 days before and/or after the trip. Therefore, before making any ticket reservation, it is crucial to first know the relevant rules and regulations, not only of your own country but also of the destination where you are going to travel.
Safety in transportation
How have you decided on getting to your destination? During a pandemic, the level of safety of your transportation type is crucial. For example, if you travel by bus or train, it is extremely difficult to keep a safe 3-meter distance from other passengers. If, on the other hand, you are planning a road trip, it is a given that the more stops you make, the greater your risk of getting COVID-19.
In case of travel by plane, you must be extremely strict with the security measures, as there are almost always huge lines inside the airport and also the many hours inside the limited and non-naturally ventilated area of the aircraft are not indicated this period. However, if for any reason it is necessary to travel by plane, prefer non-economical seats if possible, as business class seats make social distancing easier.
Health and safety above all
If you have checked all of the above and decided that you are still ready to travel during the pandemic, protecting yourself and those traveling with you should be at the top of your list of priorities.
Before you start your trip make sure you have packed all the necessary personal protective equipment, such as face masks, gloves, and antiseptics, and remember that you should always stay at least 3 meters away from others.
Besides, do not forget to wash your hands every time you touch a common surface or disinfect them throughout the trip if soap and water are not available.
Finally, in case you or a fellow traveler feel unwell during the trip, go to the nearest health unit to be taken care of immediately.
It has been many months since the virus entered our lives, infected millions, and killed hundreds of thousands of people around the world. While its spread has been severely curtailed, thanks to global measures, the battle has not yet been won.
That is why those who decide to travel during the pandemic, it is good to take into account all the above factors to keep themselves and their travel companions safe.
