5 Tips for Traveling During a Pandemic

With the global pandemic continuing to rage across the world, many travelers are taking on a different approach when it comes to traveling abroad or locally. They not only have to consider high-risk areas but also the constantly changing travel restrictions. Having that in mind, I’ve created a list of 5 important tips to consider when embarking on a journey.

1. Check the latest travel restrictions for the country/area you are visiting

Some authorities from certain countries hold daily briefings to update the public on the latest COVID-19 statistics and if the measures in place will be tightening/loosening. It is important to follow the local news every day to ensure you are prepared and well-informed ahead of your trip.

That way you will know what travel restrictions are in place in the area you will be visiting, what travel corridors are open, where you can travel without having to quarantine, etc.

Be cautious of the spread of false information online and try to rely on verified sources of information and news providers rather than Facebook groups/WhatsApp group chats.

2. Bring vitamins or other emergency medication with you

Vitamins can boost your immune system as they are essential nutrients that help your body function properly and resist infections. While there is no scientific proof that taking vitamins daily can prevent or slow down the spread of Coronavirus, vitamin intake can have several advantages when it comes to your overall performance every day. Vitamins can be taken in the form of tablets or through the daily consumptions of certain fruit and vegetables that are beneficial for your health.

I’ve found a few sources from the British Nutrition Foundation that offer a helpful guide on the benefits of fiber, vitamins, and minerals as well as what foods are rich in them. Of course, you can choose a more local source of information or consult with a nutritionist to ensure you are consuming the right amount of nutrients for your wellbeing. 

Although no one likes to think negatively, you must consider the event of having to self-isolate in a foreign country/different city for various reasons. In that case, make sure you bring emergency medication with you as a last resource in a worst-case scenario. 

3. Check the opening and closing times of the landmarks on your to-do list

It may be the case that the country/city you are visiting is open for traveling but the landmarks such as museums, galleries, and other enclosed spaces are temporarily closed to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. 

It’s best to make a list of all the places you plan on visiting then manually check the working hours of each landmark. Remember that just like travel restrictions may change each day, certain institutions/centers may close down all of a sudden and if you don’t check regularly, it will catch you by surprise. 

4. Bring masks, hand sanitizer, and antibacterial wipes

While there have been anti-mask protests in some areas of the world, the solution to that issue is simple – if you do not wear a mask you will not be permitted to fly. Hand sanitizing is also essential since you are in contact with surfaces that have been contaminated by other passengers. Antibacterial wipes can also come in handy when you want to clean the space around you such as your table, chair, seat, and even seatbelt. If you’re staying at a hotel make sure you wipe down surfaces such as nightstands, shelves, etc. before you place your items above or inside.

5. If possible, use less busy/popular airports

Not only are smaller airports cheaper to fly from, but it may also be safer for you if there are fewer flights with fewer passengers. If that means flying with a low-fare airline company, make sure that the company is taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their passengers while also making sure that distance is maintained between them.

As well as that, consider how you are going to get to your accommodation once you’ve landed. Look into the timetables of public transportation and if you’re arriving late, check if there is transportation late at night/early in the morning as well. 

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With all that being said, consider whether your trip is safe or whether it can wait for a later time when the spread of COVID is less threatening for your health and the health of others. We all make our own decisions, nevertheless, it is important to take into account advice from local authorities as well as specialized agencies such as the WHO (World Health Organization).

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