Traveling during Covid19 Pandemic

Traveling during this pandemic can be hectic and quite risky. With the coronavirus around public health continues to be a big concern and this has left many of us wondering how safe it is to travel around. While staying home and confining your movement is the best method of staying safe and reducing the spread of this virus, it keeps us feeling limited. We want to go out and explore places and we can do so but with precautions.

There are a few things to be noted whenever you think of traveling during these strange times, most notably:

What Destinations are Open?

The countries which are open, completely or partially, keep changing every now and then. Some are opening for all international visitors, while others are opening only for neighboring countries. Some Countries like the US and Canada have bans on visitors from areas which are affected badly by Covid19, while there are other countries like the Bahamas which allow tourist only if they have RTPCR test result negative. There are also countries like Australia which have temporarily banned all international travels. Also, countries like Mexico, Dominican Republic have no restriction whatsoever for tourists. But as the travel regulations change quite often, I have some recommendation for you from where you can check about the restrictions in the country which you are about to visit.

First, start with this handy map from the International Air Transport Association that shows you which countries are open for travel. But this is a more of statistical method and is not very user friendly.

Second option, use the useful lists that The Points Guy and Travel Off Path  have created. These two sources link together to give you a great overview of what’s open in different countries and what is limited. These are the best places to start if you’re looking to see what countries are open.

If you’re heading to the US, Skyscanner also has a handy list of state-by-state restrictions as well as restrictions by country and flight cancelation policies/information.

You can also download the mobile app App in the Air for ongoing travel restriction updates. App in the Air will let you know what airlines are on what flights. It will also let you know what airports are doing. App in the Air is a handy set of tools for travelers with information about health checks, vaccination requirements, and even boarding passes.

 And if you’re heading to Europe, this official map from the European Union will let you know which countries are open.

Third, check around the Foreign Office or tourist board. They are always more up-to-date than the official government's foreign affairs and tourism websites.

If you’re not sure how to find those websites, simply Google “(country name) foreign office” or “(country name) official tourism board.”

Additionally, “(country name) COVID travel update” will get you a good list of official websites too. They’ll have the best information on potential quarantine rules, test requirements, and other restrictions.

Things to Take Care About When Planning to Travel?

Taking flights

One of the most important part of our travel is how we commute or reach to our destination. We usually take flights to travel from one place to another. In the future, flying will be a much different experience. Passengers will still wear masks for protection; however, those who do not want to wear the mask can simply set it to "off" via their phone, tablet, or computer in order to avoid being shocked by the flash when they are boarding. Additionally, there will be a new system of boarding passes that uses more visual cues and less physical interaction with security officers. Many airlines are disinfecting their planes between every flight, as precautionary measures against the rise of deadly diseases. You can visit the airlines website for more information.

Also follow these basic rules when you are in a plane:

• Wash your hands frequently (or consider wearing latex gloves).
• Use sanitizer after exchange of objects from anyone.
• Wear a mask.
• Refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wipe down your seat or seating area with disinfectant wipes (because people are gross and so are planes).

Traveling by car

While air travel may be the safest way to travel during a pandemic, there are risks associated with traveling by car. Among those are stops at rest areas and gas stations, staying at hotels along the way, and eating while driving. Pack hand sanitizer, face masks, and other personal hygiene products to protect yourself from germs you'll come in contact with on the road. If you can, pack your own food, like sandwiches or salads. Pack water bottles and snacks in case you get hungry while traveling. When stopping for food, choose a fast-food restaurant or drive thru.

Accommodations while travelling

To help ensure the safety of guests and employees, many city hotels are closed or operating at reduced capacity. Most of the major brands that are open (or reopening) have taken extra precautionary measures to ensure the safety of their staff and guests. Also, hostels may not allow guests to share rooms with strangers. Many dorms will no longer have shared rooms, which may mean that each guest will have his/her own room. Cleaning procedures in accommodation are likely to be more thorough, and hotels and villas that would have mid-week cleans will have these now (to avoid cross-contamination between guests who may otherwise share beds).

Always remember not to travel if are unwell. Book Tickets and accommodations with refundable options and always have all the documents with you.

Enjoy your trip!