How to travel safely during covid

Travel around the world stopped in early 2020 and has been dormant throughout the year. This left many people yearning for the missed vacations. However, people are realizing that they can travel safely now, even if it means taking a few extra precautions. Here are some tips to help you travel safely during the COVID pandemic.

Get the test before and after your flight

Testing is a vital component of stopping the spread of any infectious disease. After all, you can inadvertently spread it to others without even realizing that you are sick. This has been a problem of tuberculosis transmission for many years.

Even if you have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you should still get tested before you travel. Ideally, schedule a test within 48 hours of leaving, but make sure you get your results in time. It’s also a good idea to check with the carrier and officials at your destination for their testing requirements. For example, a cruise in Italy and Greece may have stricter rules than either country per se.

Take basic precautions

Unlike earlier in the pandemic when everyone was flying blind just to try to get some information, scientists now know that taking basic safety precautions can help slow the spread of COVID. It is up to each individual to do their part in making this happen.

If you are concerned about your health, be prepared to take extra precautions to compensate for those around you who are sluggish a little. What does it mean? Here are some examples of how to protect yourself:

• wear a face mask (or two)
• Get vaccinated well in advance of your flight
• Try to keep a distance between you and others
• Eat and gather outdoors whenever possible
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available

Limit your travel companions

The more people you are with nearby, the greater your chances of coming into contact with someone with COVID. That’s why it’s a good idea to limit the number of people you come in close contact with while you’re travelling. If you are planning a large group trip, you may want to reconsider. However, scientists agree that smaller, more intimate vacations can be safely taken.

You will undoubtedly have contact with people other than your immediate travel companions, but you may be able to limit that as well. At the very least, you can focus on the outdoors where you have access to fresh air — and less germs.

Find your destination

Where you plan to go can make a huge difference in how your trip develops this year. This is why research is more important now than it was in previous travel seasons.

If you’re traveling internationally, start by seeing if there are any travel warnings set to your destination. Is it unusually high? Have there been reports of new outbreaks that might interfere with your ability to go home? You should also carefully consider restrictions on travelers coming into the country. Will you have to quarantine for a long time upon arrival? If so, how will that affect the length of time you should enjoy the trip?

Checking local destinations can be easier, but not always. Look at trends in case rates and how stressful medical systems are in the area you’re going to. Ask carriers and hotels what precautions they take so you’ll be prepared.

Be polite to other travelers

This seems to be getting harder and harder for people as the pandemic continues. But the truth is, everyone is trying to get through the same mess. Use empathy and consideration when interacting with others on your journey. It will make the experience better for you and everyone around you.

Travel can be done safely if you use common sense and take a few extra precautions. Basic safety measures, testing, and researching your destination will help keep you safe.