How to Travel Safely Post-Pandemic
Are you ready to do some travelling now that the world is starting to open up again? Here’s what you should know.
THE STORY: Now that more and more people have been vaccinated against Covid-19, the world is slowly starting to open back up. For a lot of us, that means travelling again (particularly to see those people we haven’t seen in person in over a year). But how do you travel safely in this starting-to-be-post-pandemic world? Whether you’re just traveling to the next state over or are planning on going out of the country, here’s what you should consider.
POST-PANDEMIC TRAVEL TIPS:
1. Whether you’re vaccinated or not will affect where and how you can travel. The CDC recommends unvaccinated people NOT travel unless absolutely necessary. CDC recommendations for unvaccinated people traveling domestically include getting a viral test 1-3 days before travel, wearing a mask and social distancing, and taking another viral test + self-quarantining after your return. CDC recommendations for fully vaccinated people travelling domestically include wearing a mask on public forms of transportation (planes, trains, buses, etc), social distancing around people you don’t know, washing your hands frequently and self-quarantine after travel.
2. If you’re planning on travelling internationally, you’ll need to check and see whether countries are open to U.S. travelers. You’ll also need to check the safety requirements for the country you’re planning to visit (ie whether masks are required, etc).
3. The safest way to travel right now is by car, BUT planes should be fine due to how air is filtered on them. That said you’re also in closer quarters to strangers on a plane.
4. Check mask requirements for places you’ll be going and places you’ll be staying to see where you’ll need to wear one.
5. Eating outdoors is still safer than eating indoors so check if your restaurant has outdoor seating.
6. Since coronavirus is airborne, it’s not necessary to wipe down surfaces in hotel rooms, etc.
7. Travel insurance is becoming more popular after the pandemic. If you decide to go that route, make sure the policy covers anything Covid-19 related!
8. Remember now is not the time to let down your guard. Even if you’re fully vaccinated, inoculation doesn’t offer 100% protection. Consistently following mask and social distancing guidelines, plus washing your hands frequently continue to remain important.
THE ROUND-UP: Travelling after Covid-19 will likely require a bit more time and planning than you’re used to, but it will be worth it. So, enjoy your travels and stay safe!