While each country has its own guidelines, it’s important to know the risks and specially the precautions you need to take. Travelling may increase the chances of spreading the new coronavirus and it’s important to understand how to travel safe.
With the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus, most countries advised its citizens to stay at home and avoid non-essential travels. That was the first governments’ action and helped saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
But now that the situation looks under control in Europe, most countries are starting to lift the bans on free circulation, opening borders and recover airline routes. Getting the tourists back is now one of the top-priorities inside the European Union, while keeping the virus under control that’s why it’s so important to understand how to travel safe during Covid-19.
At this stage, most people are looking to new concepts of travelling based on proximity – in places you can drive to and probably in your own country – the so called staycations. This is definitely a great option, specially for families or people at higher risk.
For those who are well aware of the risks and still want to travel internationally, there are precautions that need to be taken. Airlines and other transportation companies are working to provide the safest environment possible. Besides the companies’ efforts, the protection starts in your own actions. It’s important to keep social distancing and having the necessary hands and breathing hygiene.
What is the risk of getting the Covid-19 on an airplane?
The risk of getting the virus inside airplanes is relatively low. The frequent air circulation (that is filtered with HEPA filtration systems) helps to create an environment almost germ free. Having this is mind is key that the necessary measures are taken while entering and departing the airport. Many countries are following procedures to check passengers before departing – measuring the temperature and, in some cases, even testing for Covid-19. Other countries are applying a 14 days quarantine for every international passenger, so don’t forget to check the travel restrictions of your destination country.
Which precautions should we take to travel safe during Covid-19?
Use Hand Sanitiser
Although the risk may be low, try to avoid touching things unnecessarily. Passengers are allowed to bring hand sanitiser so make sure you bring a 35 ml, 60%+ alcohol hand sanitiser with you. Or/and, try to wash your hands as often as you can for at least 20 seconds. I personally like to keep this hand sanitiser with me in my bag and was always able to travel with it.
Use Your Mask. Yes, it’s Mandatory.
Masks are mandatory for all passengers inside the airplane and also inside the airport. Make sure to bring your mask and try to keep social distance while waiting in line for security screening. A 2 meters distance is normally the minimum recommended.
I personally don’t like to wear mask, but it’s important to be conscious and respect the places where it’s mandatory. I’m currently using these face masks which are washable and look good.
Don’t Forget Your Gloves!
Using Gloves is a really good precaution if you know how to use them. If you are not using them correctly you might still be able to spread the virus around.
Make sure you follow this tips to use gloves properly:
– Always clean your hands before and after using the gloves;
– Clean things like your phone, keys and glasses that you have touched with your gloves on;
– Don’t touch your face while wearing your gloves (this is a mistake I made sometimes!);
– Make sure you take them off from the inside out and wash your hands after;
Bring Wipes
Using alcohol or anti-bacterial wipes is also a great way to keep things clean around you. I normally order these small once because they fit perfectly in my bag and are allowed in the airplane.
Check Your Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is something we normally pay for, but almost never use it – and that’s a good thing!
Now it’s a good time to check your insurance details and clauses. Ensure you are properly protected to the current uncertain circumstances and avoid unexpected surprises.
Carry More Cash
I mainly use my card while travelling, but during the Covid-19 it might not be a bad idea to carry a bit more cash. Be prepared just in case of delays and to avoid touching the cash machines more than necessary. If you really need to use the cash machine, don’t forget to wash your hands after or use the hand sanitiser.
