Travelling during Covid-19 is quite different to what we were used to. There are additional steps that we have to go through such as testing and mandatory quarantine as part of the precautions for the virus.
It is crucial that travellers are regularly updating themselves with the latest COVID-restriction updates to ensure safe travel. Here are some of the tips from experts on how you can safely travel during these difficult times.
Know the Covid-19 rate in your destination
Even if you are already vaccinated, it’s still crucial to assess COVID-19 levels in the area and country you are travelling to. If these are high, this puts you at a greater risk of contracting COVID-19, and while you may have protection from the virus, your friends and family may not.
Know the restrictions
While you’re at your destination, there will be local restrictions on activities that may differ from where you have travelled from. This ranges from whether you have to wear a mask to whether the local bars and restaurants are open.
Plan ahead when testing
There is still a lot of confusion about what tests are needed to travel, depending on the destination. This can range from whether they accept passengers who have been vaccinated, or require a PCR or Antigen fit to fly test.
To find an area’s Covid-19 test positivity rate and test requirements, visit the website of its local public health department. This allows you to plan your Covid tests ahead of time, reduce anxiety and save on fees from last-minute testing.
Stay safe when flying
Because of how air is filtered and circulates on aeroplanes, the Covid-19 virus does not spread easily on flights. However, crowded flights can make social distancing difficult so it’s important to limit contact and wear a face-covering during the flight and when boarding and leaving the aircraft.
Instead of using traditional boarding passes or handing them to staff for inspection, opt for an electronic or mobile pass which you can put on the scanner and display yourself.
Choose safe activities
While in enclosed places such as indoor bars or restaurants may be legal at a destination you visit, they carry a significantly greater risk of contracting Covid-19. On entering and leaving any facility or any place for that matter, you should always wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
