How to Plan a Safe Trip During a Pandemic

This is a contributed post.

The pandemic has changed the way we travel for the foreseeable future. Many have postponed trips indefinitely for foreign places, but not all hope is lost. The rise of the staycation has proven to be a success during these turbulent times and there are still ways that we can enjoy travel – with careful planning.

The way we travel will change – and with all of the restrictions in place, more and more people have had to face cancelled flights and lockdowns of their destination countries. What can you do to plan safely for a trip? Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy throughout your trip.

Do Your Research 

Each country will have its own travel advisories, and even within countries different states/provinces/regions will have its own sub-set of restrictions. So your first step will be to check local government websites to check the laws in place within each location.

For international travel – you’ll want to pay close attention to the rules both for entering the foreign country but also for returning to your own country. Many countries are requiring quarantine for up to two weeks upon entry.

Some websites offer overviews of those restrictions and updates as well, such as canitravel.net. Knowing the restrictions and being aware of what you can and cannot do in a given location will be critical for your planning a trip.

Even with staycations care will need to be taken into consideration as different counties/provinces/states will have their own sets of restrictions.

Self Isolation 

Some places will ask you to self-isolate for fourteen days before and after travel.

Two weeks may seem like a long time to wait before being allowed outside. However, in the longer-term, this act will keep yourself and others healthy, minimizing your risk of contracting, and therefore spreading COVID.

You can plan to ensure that your groceries can be delivered, that you have plenty of entertainment at hand, and if you want to work from home during that time frame that the internet is reliable.

Chose airlines wisely 

When I had to fly over the summer I conducted quite a lot of research into the precautions that different airlines were taking, and how they were approaching safety in the time of Covid. It’s important to check their websites to see what actions they’re taking and as to how they are limiting the spread.

Disposable masks will be required on a flight, so bring enough masks to last the duration – you’ll need to change them every four hours. You cannot rely on the airlines to provide these for you so you’ll need to plan ahead.

Make sure to bring snacks and have a meal before flying. While some airlines are still offering food, there will be a limited menu.

Take to the road 

Staycations are becoming increasingly popular and with good reason. It’s still best to travel closer to your home if possible. If you’re looking to escape the rat-race, or the monotony of life at home, taking a trip to the great outdoors and camping could be a good option for you.

Pack a bag of food to limit the need to dine out, and you’ll still be able to show off your great collection of travel snaps without having to hop a plane.

The great outdoors still offers us some safety in these unusual times, and the fresh air is always good for you. Enjoying the natural beauty of your local area is a great way to relax and find some inner peace during these turbulent times.

Staycations also offer a significant amount of flexibility that is often a challenge when travelling by air or other ticketed means.

Prepare to be Flexible 

Travel anxiety has never been as real as it is today. It is important to be prepared for cancellations from both methods of transport and places to stay. Check for cancellation policies and that your insurance will cover and financial losses as a result of these cancellations.

Call ahead any destinations such as restaurants and planned activities. Hotels may have additional logistics such as using specific entrances and exits to limit foot traffic to particular doorways. They may also have to closer off amenities such as spas, gyms and bar areas. Prepare to make changes to your plans in the event of this happening.

Everyone has to make adaptations during these unpredictable times, so be patient with others and yourselves as everyone becomes accustomed to new rules and regulations.

Keep washing your hands

Remembering to keep washing your hands is incredibly important at the best of times, but more so now. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds each time, thoroughly. When soap and water are unavailable, be sure to use hand sanitizer and carry it with you at all times.