The COVID-19 pandemic has dragged on for much longer than most governments and health advisors had anticipated in the early weeks and months of the pandemic.
And, although most people haven’t gone on a holiday during this period, many have traveled abroad during the pandemic, as they needed a break and wanted to benefit from slashed hotel fees and in some cases cheaper flights.
With the pandemic and the related restrictions set to remain in place for at least the next few months, you may also be tempted to go on a trip in the coming weeks.
If so, read on to discover some great tips to help calm your nerves and reduce the stress of traveling during the pandemic.
4 Tips For Traveling During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Book Flexible Options Whenever Possible
Due to the nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, flight cancelations are quite common and many governments are frequently changing the lists of which countries you can travel to and enter from.
All of this means that booking a non-amendable flight or hotel puts you at a great risk of losing out on your money. So, to avoid this additional stress, you should always try to book flexible options whenever possible.
In some cases, you’ll find that these amendable packages are more expensive, but for most people they are worth peace of mind they provide, as you can simply reschedule your flight or hotel in the event you can no longer travel to a certain destination on a certain date.
Stay Up to Date On Entry Requirements
Entry requirements are also constantly changing – and they may vary depending on which country you are entering from. Many countries currently require proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR swab test conducted up to 72 hours before your flight, or you won’t be allowed to board your flight or enter the country.
Other common requirements include filling out a health declaration form prior to your arrival and having valid international health insurance cover which will cover the cost of your treatment in the event you contract COVID-19 and need to be hospitalized while abroad.
You should stay up to date on these requirements and closely adhere to them, as failing to do so may result in you not being allowed to enter the country.
Purchase a Solid Health Insurance Policy
Even if you’re traveling to a country where purchasing travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement to enter, it’s nevertheless strongly advised to do as it ensures you will have access to healthcare should you contract COVID-19 while on vacation.
Be sure that the policy you purchase doesn’t have a coronavirus exclusion, as this could leave you having to foot a hefty medical bill.
Pack Plenty of Face Masks & Sanitizer
This may seem like an obvious point given the fact most countries require you to wear a face mask in public areas, but it’s nevertheless worth mentioning.
You should be sure to pack plenty of face masks and sanitizer, as you don’t want to have to go out of your way to resupply while on vacation (especially as these goods might be much more expensive in some countries than in the US.)
Should I Travel?
Health experts and most governments in the world are advising their citizens not to travel abroad unless necessary, as traveling can increase your chances of contracting and spreading COVID-19.
Ultimately, it’s down to you to assess the risks and determine if it’s worth it for a break after almost a year of not having much of social life.
But, if you do decide to travel, be sure to follow the health protocols and social distancing measures that have been introduced in the country you’re visiting– and keep in mind that you may be handed a hefty fine for breaching these rules while abroad.