How to Travel Safely During COVID 19

Usually people take vacations and trips to anywhere they want, but the outbreak of COVID 19 has either put everyone’s plans on hold or changed them for an indefinite period of time.

People were forced to reconsider where they can travel to, how to get there and what safety precautions they can take.

While we don’t suggest traveling for vacation purposes, emergency trips for any situation can arise anytime.

Hence, it’s better to be prepared for such emergencies rather than get caught unaware.

1) Keep it easy.

While the vaccines have given us hope for the end of the virus epidemic, it doesn’t happen overnight.

Travel only when necessary, keeping your trips only for getting supplies.

It is better if they are direct, because it minimizes the risk of getting infected during various means of transport.

A car is the safest option for wherever you want to go so look for destinations within driving distance.

If you have to fly, board a plane only for family visitations and emergencies.

Also, do keep in mind that direct air tickets to your destination is better than one with layovers as it has less chances of being exposed to the virus.

As a general rule, don’t get tricked by cheap fares to travel on public transport, go for a walk or bike ride, or use your own vehicle.

2) Bring your own supplies.

While you’re out for traveling, do NOT forget to bring your own supplies.

Carry a water bottle anywhere you go, along with something to eat so you can avoid standing in queue for buying those.

Wear a mask at all times you’re exposed to a place with people, and bring your sanitizer and wipes to use at regular intervals. 

3) Research is your best friend.

If you have to travel, research the modes of transport that enforce use of face masks and provide adequate access to sanitizers, hand wash and/ or disinfectant wipes.

Since social distancing isn’t possible on trains or flights, limit the places you touch and use a face mask to avoid any infected person’s breath air droplets.

Instead of just booking low fare flights, consider other factors too. Remember to book online plane tickets instead of buying them in person.

4) Don’t travel if you’re sick.

COVID can spread through an infected person’s droplets of mucus or saliva. So, if you’re sick, don’t travel anywhere.

It also has an incubation period of 14 days as opposed to 2 days for a common flu. Avoid coming in contact with people if you’re sick or they are.

A lot of international airports are conducting temperature checks for people who’re incoming, outgoing and in transit.

There’s no doubt that you’ll not be allowed to board the plane if you have a fever or symptoms of COVID 19. 

5) Check your lodgings.

When you’re staying at a hotel, opt for ones with wide windows or proper air filtration systems.

When the fresh air is circulating, it minimizes the risk for infection. Better yet, camping outdoors in a plain, open field is even better.

A room with a terrace or balcony is also a great option for travelers. If you can’t find a room with either wide windows or a balcony, air filtration systems should be adequate.

However, they are less predictable compared to the others.

6) Get outside.

If you’re itching to get out of the house and explore, go for a long walk near the beach.

Or you can opt for a bike ride along the pavements, or a day hike in the mountains or hills nearby.

This will spend your energy saved during your coop up and recharge your batteries so you start another day with a fresh mind.

Do remember to avoid eating outside in the restaurants and cafes as they can become sources of infection transmission.

Eat something before you go out or carry your food and drink with you.

If you have to eat out in the restaurants, pick the tables outside the restaurant for seating rather than the ones inside. Breathing fresh air is always a better choice.