Travel safety tips : post-pandemic world

Our first piece of travel safety advice is to think about your destination country and what might be going on there currently. Will you need to quarantine? Get tested again? Provide proof of negative test results? These were questions we had to ask after the pandemic, while COVID 19 cases are not as dominant in society anymore, it is still important to know these things before you travel. Regulations differ from one country to another. A very useful interactive map from travel company Sherpa shows you in real-time where in the world you can travel right now depending on your location and vaccination status, and what restrictions you may face, by simply entering your departure and arrival locations on their website.

 

A number of countries may still require travellers to show proof of vaccination or proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, or both. Make sure your vaccination card is filled out with the date of your dose or doses (if you received a two-dose vaccine). It's a good idea to make a copy of the card or have a photo on your phone as backup. In the past, some countries also insisted on a PCR test to determine if you were infected several days before flying into and out of their airports.

Another top travel tip is that masks, hand sanitiser and disinfecting wipes should be always at the ready while you travel, even post pandemic. Carry a travel-size bottle of hand sanitiser for commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, handles and buttons. Don't forget to bring disinfectant wipes to sanitise all the high-touch areas. It’s always a good idea to bring more masks than you think you will need. While you’re out and about, observe local masking and follow social distancing guidelines. 

 

Travel safety tips are important for travelling through busy areas, especially airports where there is a high number of people all in the one place. A piece of travel advice is to try to look for direct flights when possible. This will limit the need to change planes and walk through busy airports. While travelling through the airport, steer clear of crowded areas. Food courts, shopping areas and busy gates should be avoided whenever possible. Find an empty gate to relax in, away from the crowds.

Respect social distancing during luggage drop-off, security checks, boarding and baggage claim. And remember, even if you are vaccinated, you still need to take precautions, such as wearing a mask and keeping your distance, during your travel in airports. Today, it’s still important to keep distance from others and protect yourself from anyone who may be sick. Airports are such high traffic areas so here we must be extra vigilant.

 

The travel safety advice continues as you board the plane. Be sure to check your airline’s website for information on its policies. Pack disinfectant wipes in your carry-on so you can wipe down your seat, tray table, screen and seat belt buckle before you sit down. Check that wipes are at least 60 per cent alcohol.

Turn on your overhead air vent. Although the air in the cabin is generally safe, turning the vent on can help disperse any pathogens in the air around you and ensure you are breathing the freshest possible air. Commercial aircrafts today are fitted with high quality air filtering systems which means that the airflow ‘mirrors the laminar airflow of an operating room with no or minimal crossover of air streams,’. There is no need for extra worry, but taking precautions by wearing masks is always going to help.

 

If you’re feeling anxious or worried about traveling since the pandemic, that is okay. Many people feel the same way. While the world has re-opened, fears can remain the same. Travel safety advice to help with travel anxiety is to avoid social media, ease back into travel slowly by taking a trip close to home, preparing strategies for staying calm on the journey and being kind to yourself.  It’s important to be kind to yourself as you try to navigate the new normal. Find more tips for travel anxiety here.

 

Travel insurance is more important now than ever. Make sure to get insurance for both medical coverage and trip cancellation and interruption. In some cases, it may be sensible to buy specific COVID-related travel insurance that includes some kind of “COVID cover” for disruptions. Don’t assume that your policy will cover this.

It’s also worth paying close attention to international travel restrictions stipulated by certain countries. If you travel before restrictions are lifted, it may invalidate your insurance.

International Health Insurance with Allianz gives both you and your family protection and peace of mind with cover treatment for COVID-19.

 

• Further information about COVID-19 and the vaccination can be found here.
  
• Visit our COVID-19  ─ Your Questions Answered Section to find out more.

Safe travelling and always remember these top travel tips as you make your journey!