PLANNING TO TRAVEL DURING COVID-19
RESEARCH, PLANNING AND PREPARING TO TRAVEL DURING COVID-19
We all have planned vacations or business trips and know the drill of successfully executing them. However, this time we will have to do so with added cautious measures. Here are some steps and guidelines to follow when planning to travel during COVID-19.
As countries prepare to reopen and resume business, many airports and airlines are restarting operations, however restricted, in the new normal. The expectation for some semblance of the normalcy of lives, as it was pre-COVID-19, is starting to run high, no matter how limited this might be.
Many people who love travelling or travel for work, are waiting with baited breaths, to see which airlines are flying. They are assessing the new rules and regulations implemented, before getting too excited or planning to travel during COVID-19.
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While all this is taking place, it’s a good idea to research how to go about preparing for travel in the new normal.
Like me, I know many are eager to resume travel and fed up seeing the same surroundings every day. For someone who loves travel, the urge to get away will never disappear no matter how deadly this pandemic might be. Yes, the urge is one thing, but caution and common sense will always prevail.
Many still believe there isn’t a Coronavirus, but whether this is so or not is debatable. Nevertheless, the circumstances and restrictions surrounding the pandemic is what we all must live with and adjust to presently.
1. Review your Health Status
Before you plan to travel, here are some factors you must consider. People in this group should think twice about flying and or exposing themselves to risks;
- People over 65 years old
- Anyone with chronic kidney disease, undergoing dialysis
- People with severe obesity (Bmi 40 or higher)
- High-risk immunocompromised (HIV/AIDS) persons
- Those with asthma, hypertension, heart condition, liver disease
People who fall in this group are most vulnerable, as reported by the CDC – (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). In this case, it is good advice to not expose yourself to unnecessary risks by travelling during this time.
2. Check Websites for Travel Options before deciding the country to Visit
No matter how restrictive travel will be, we are all seeing some possibility of travelling soon. Even so, here are some essential pointers to consider, before investing time, resources, and money into planning to travel during COVID-19 pandemic:
- Visit your Government’s website for information regarding any restrictions/bans, warnings, and travel alerts.
- Check the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and WHO (World Health Organization) websites. Both will have the most updated information regarding the pandemic in countries around the world and protection measures.
- Peruse the airlines and hotel sites for excellent deals (inclusive of price and no penalty cancellations).
- Research countries with the highest/lowest coronavirus concentration and consider visiting those with the least cases.
- Consider local or regional travel (aka Staycation) as presently this is most viable for these reasons:
- More money stays in your country/region, which is much needed at this time to rebuild your economy during this economically challenging period.
- No travel insurance.
- You save more money and don’t need to source Forex to travel.
- Support and boost for local and regional tourism, which is currently almost dead due to the coronavirus.
- No frustrating airport procedures.
- Less COVID-19 exposure and risks of infection if the transmission is low in your country or region.
- You will not be stranded in a foreign country (for possibly months) if they suddenly close their borders. No chance of this happening, when you vacation in your country/region.
- Avoid those countries where there is a mandatory 14 days quarantine rule for all visitors. This is especially if you are on a budget or limited vacation days.
3. Planning your Vacation
The four most important things to focus on when you are planning to travel during COVID-19 pandemic are:
- Countries
- Hotels
- Airlines
- Travel Insurance
3.1 COUNTRIES - Research Countries’ Websites
Start by researching the country you wish to visit for the most recent updates and information regarding COVID-19 such as:
- COVID-19 concentrated areas in said country and death-rate status.
- Restrictions and or travel bans of citizens from some countries or regions. Are these currently active?
- If they require visitors to present a medical/documentation showing they are COVID-19 negative.
- What are the procedures upon arrival in the country? i.e. if you will be on mandatory quarantine (if at your expense) and for how many days?
- Would you need to have travel insurance upon entry? It will be a precautionary measure, should you become sick in said country. Remember, not many countries offer free health care to non-nationals at public hospitals. You will need to research this in case you, unfortunately, contract the COVID-19 in the country. It will ascertain if you will receive free health care.
- Transport to your hotel, will they be providing transportation from the airport? (If you will be on mandatory quarantine on entry) and will it be free? If no, at what cost to you? All this will be to ensure that you do not use public transport and eliminate the risks of you intermingling with the rest of the population/taxi driver on your way to the hotel for quarantine.
- If you arrive in a country where there is no 14 days quarantine for visitors, but COVID-19 testing on arrival. You unfortunately test positive on arrival do you have the option to return to your country the same day? Would you have any options or be placed under mandatory quarantine in said country for 14 days?
You need to know all this beforehand, so do your research, because you can visit a country for a short stay, and end up having to stay 14 days isolated at a hospital or in accommodation at your expense.
These are crucial information you need to know for smooth planning, no hiccups, and to manage your travel budget.
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3.2 HOTELS & Booking Agents Research
Many Booking Agents are reaching out, offering discount codes to encourage hotel bookings at discounted prices. They are trying to entice with deals like book five nights and get one night free (previously ten nights and get one free). Don’t be too quick to book a room until you get answers to your questions.
Read Cancellation policies for hotels and Booking Agents and re-read. Some booking agents debit your card on the day you book, some, one week before check-in. Others like Booking.com as little as three days before check-in (which is the cancellation cut-off time) or pay on arrival at the hotel.
A point to note, even if you don’t check in on that day, your credit card will still be debited. So read the fine print.
Another option is to book directly with the hotel if they are the same price as the agents. They may also be more flexible and have a more personal and relaxed policy due to the circumstances surrounding the pandemic. It should be done in the event you have to cancel and prefer reimbursement, without penalties, instead of credit for future use.
So do your research and compare to see who has the best deal for you before you book a room.
3.3 AIRLINES (Research Airlines Prices, Policies and Change Fees)
Begin by comparing prices of all the airlines flying the route you are contemplating (use a flight OTA like CheapOair etc.), to get the best fare. Read the cancellation policies for the airlines before you spend one dime to buy a ticket, no matter how enticing the price may seem.
Some airlines have been offering specials and deals to passengers as follows:
- For family bookings, children 12 and under are free with one free extra piece of luggage.
- Free tickets to front-line staff and one companion, worldwide. (Qatar Airways).
- 40% discounts on all routes.
- Buy one ticket normal price and the person travelling with you pays 50% int’l flights to/from Greece valid until 31/10/20. (codes are on airlines websites for such deals).
Do your research to see which airlines are offering such deals and more. Most airlines have deals to encourage you to fly with them, so try to get the best deals available.
Airlines are reaching out to past customers offering discounted prices (if you buy tickets now) with the option to modify the dates within a given period or rebook without penalties. What they do not readily tell you is that when you are ready to rebook, the price of the ticket will more than likely be higher for the same route on a different date.
Therefore, before purchasing an airline ticket, be sure to research the answers to these questions:
- If you or the airline cancelled the flight, would you receive a cash-back refund, travel points/miles, or credit towards future use for another ticket?
- You change the date and or destination, will you have to pay a change fee along with the difference in the price of the airline ticket?
- If you cancel the flight, what percentage would be deducted from the total sum paid?
- The airline cancels the trip due to closure of airports or COVID-19-related, what will be your situation? Would you be compensated and or accommodated at a hotel for the period?
Airlines Safety Measures due to the Pandemic
All airlines have made some changes to their policies and somewhat rearranged their operations. They have implemented new guidelines and safety measures for the protection of their passengers and crews.
Notwithstanding, one question I am sure most people want to know, is, will the middle seats be occupied or not? All the airlines I have corresponded with regarding this question, only one have responded and have outlined their seating arrangements. I have also received correspondence from several international airlines, outlining some of their boarding and in-flight changes, as follows:
- No-contact self-check-in and boarding.
- One piece of hand luggage only on all flights (your purse or briefcase only) weighing no more than 4 kg. The 8/10 kg CARRY-ON BAG WILL BE DISALLOWED).
- Hygiene Experts crew will be on flights. They will oversee lavatory disinfectant and enforcement at all times.
- The procedure for entry and disembarking the airplane will be modified. Window seats passengers will enter firstly followed by passengers seated in aisle seats. (It should be known, there was no mention of middle seats).
- Pillow services removed, and blankets available only on flight 4 hours or more (for hygiene purposes).
- Limited personal service on board. One airline advised that water will be served in bottles only, and Air stewardess’ will be less-seen, throughout flights.
- Seating arrangement. Some airlines will be dedicating the last three rows at the back of the plane or first three rows in the front of the airplane. It will be an isolation area for passengers who may show signs of illness mid-flight.
- Single-use headset or bring your own where discontinued.
- Discontinuation of publication materials (magazines, newspapers, etc.). They will be available digitally, before or during flights where WIFI is available.
- Single-use utensils, pre-sealed meals, and limited food and beverages on flights. Bottled water ONLY, on flights under 2 hours.
- Mandatory for all passengers to wear masks.
- No change fees, only fare difference.
- All passengers receive face shields and protective kits. The cabin crew will be wearing protective gowns for extra safety.
- The middle seat on larger aircraft will be blocked for sale and on smaller aircraft (for those who are not travelling together). Most aisle seats for smaller aircraft are also blocked for purchase. This translates to less people on each flight, which aids in physical distancing.
*Do your research to see which airlines are taking these measures before booking.
3.4 Travel Insurance Checks
This is a necessity, especially if you are travelling during this risky time. However, it seems many insurance companies are shying away from coverage of travel to countries with COVID-19. Some insurance companies will cover the testing costs but not cover hospitalizations etc. So do some research before travel and find one that offers comprehensive COVID-19 coverage at a reasonable price. For travel insurance options click here(#Ad).
Those who have travel insurance attached to their credit cards should contact their credit card provider. Inquire into coverage for COVID-19 and the extenuating circumstances surrounding it while travelling. This should be ascertained, before getting on a plane.
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4. Packing your essentials for your Journey
After you have completed your research and have organized your other travel essentials, it’s time to pack for your trip. Such will be a different type of packing in the new normal due to the pandemic. Besides your travel essentials, you will need pandemic essentials, most importantly to keep you COVID-free, while travelling. They are as follows:
- Medicine (flu busting vitamins)
- Bottle water (stay hydrated always)
- Masks (reusable and disposable)
- Hand sanitizer
- Disposable gloves
- Goggles/glasses (for extra protection of the eyes)
- Disinfecting/antibacterial wipes
- Tissues
- Disposable Ziplock bags (to discard your napkins/tissues until you can safely dispose of them).
- Invest in a selfie stick, you won’t want many unclean touching your phone or camera, neither would they be willing to touch your or your items either.
MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS
These are my essentials and gadgets I can never do without for a smooth and stress-free vacation. All are available on Amazon for direct links to the products and information and suggested uses .
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Conclusion
Travelling after 911 was a time-consuming and frustrating exercise and still is, but we have adjusted. The stringent measures and procedures have become the new “normal” way to travel. So, imagine planning to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It will be our “new normal” going forward, and we will all have to adjust to it in some way. I honestly think this virus will be with us for a few years, if not indefinitely. I am sure there will be many hiccups along the way, but such is life! We will overcome them. For those willing to travel, you will weigh the risks, hassle, and the prize.
What could be the possible outcome of traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic? You bet a great adventure! You visited, explored, enjoyed, and made it back home safely. What are the risks? Contracting COVID-19.
Albeit, I think if we follow the safety protocols, health guidelines, practice good hygiene and keep our immune system optimal. We can all enjoy a safe and virus-free vacation and have a great time despite the situation and the surrounding restrictions.
Share with me your plans, if any, to travel soon and the steps you will be taking to achieve a safe and fun-filled vacation or business trip.
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Dear Cory, you could not have explained it better for travel checks, we here in Malta take all the best precautions and our Government have made life much easier for us, but what you said is all true. Now the Maltese Airport and Sea port have opened up again and we still have to take all the precautions before anybody enters our Country.
Thank you Ray..yes I see your borders are reopened and I have seen the cases increasing, even though not by much, so you guys have to keep monitoring this.
Wow!! You’d better stay in your country than take the risk.it may not be safe to travel any time soon..
I know a few people who are currently on vacations..even if i wanted to travel our borders here are closed..no idea when they will be reopened
Very interesting and informative article especially for the brave and super-restless who have no fear of co-vid 19. Some people just can’t stay still for very long, and the airlines just want to be back in business. The same goes for those countries with tourist-based economies. They have to balance the possibility of risking new infections with earning foreign income. It is a fine line to walk! Very well-researched as usual, Cory! Insurance, while traveling in these times, is of paramount importance!
lol.. I am one of those who cant exist without a little flying..but have to manage and cope..yes the problem with the travel industry is a lose lose right now..14 days quarantine..no one is visiting..no quarantine..you put your population at risk..whats the solution?? that’s a tough one.
Thank you information!! Its very good and detailed for all who travel, you left nothing out.
You are welcome Xaris..
Thank you Cory for this article which describes in detail what needs to be done to travel after this pandemic. Unfortunately in Italy, since yesterday, citizens from some countries (Brazil, Peru, Bangladesh and others) can no longer land. hopefully everything will be resolved soon.
Hey Emilio, you are welcome..yes I see many countries have banned certain citizens from entering, so that’s why those travelling need to do some research prior to booking..Its rather ironic that you guys have restrictions though..when everyone was blocking Italy, now its reversed..lol..stay safe my friend.
So many details…Cory you are the best..keep writing the way you are .. I follow you always, easy to read and understand, hope when we can fly again you can come visit us here once again. thanks for the tips
Thank you Cornel, wish I can fly now, but I am trapped.. our airport is locked up tight.. lol.. its for the good of all i guess..
I think taking a trip is still safe even during the entire world crisis.
Europe has proven that they have the virus totally under control
We need to have our protective gears and some cleaning and disinfectant to protect ourselves
I agree 100% with the travelling.. just be cautious and stay bit close to home as well.
Hi Cora….nice hints….the new normal is a bit frustrating but we will get used to it. You named absolutely everything that we have to keep in mind….
Hi D..frustrating is an understatement.. but soon enough I guess we will adapt to this new norm…
Nice article, so easy to read and understand..travel is dead for most people, but maybe some hope somewhere
That was my line before..travel is dead..it will be if the 14 days quarantine to tourist be implemented in countries, and on the other hand if countries allow people in with just a test hen they can be positive but just on that day show negative..then the virus spreads in the country and borders will be closed once again…so mmmm its a tough one for the travel industry.
Excellent writing, tips and suggestion as usual. Some may think it’s far fetched for people to be travelling now but many are. Even I want to go somewhere…I know the feeling of being in one space for so long with a disease hanging over your head..its true frustration. I am hoping to visit one of the countries in my region for Christmas..watching and waiting. These airline deals and specials you mentioned you need to let us know which ones are offering such deals without free advertising for them. Love your article as usual keep up the excellent skill of keeping my attention all the way to the last word.
Hey girl, some may never understand fear over passion and love, thanks again for the kind words, i will message you with the airlines information..lets hope all this soon goes away and life return to normal soon..stay safe.
You are really brave lady. Who traveled in covid 19. Not fear from anuthing. Travel queen you great. God bless u dear
Haha! Hi Goldy, if you love something or has a passion, it never goes away, I know a few people who are already travelling or making plans to do so, after all, planes are flying and I am sure there aren’t only 2 persons on board.
hi.Cory, very good writing as usual, Corona will not be a problem for me to fly, I will protect myself, in fact you should fly to Turkey once again.
I know this Hasan, however, for now, people should travel within their regions or country..just my suggestion, but many are travelling as many airports are open especially in the Caribbean. Sorry my airport is on lock, with no idea when it will be re-opened.
I want to travel but no money, so its not on my mind too much , i can blame t on Covid hahha
Thats a good one…we have a good scapegoat this year for everything…we blame Covid.. lol
Hi good evening this was a well put together well thought out travel advisory on what to do and not to do what to look for and not to look for in your next planed vocation so people please stay safe stay focus. Once again thank you for the information.
Happy you like it..stay safe and happy travels..with caution of course!!
Hi Cory!!!! Im not sure that this disease is real. It us not more than a flu.
Yes, I know you are one who dont believe its real, yet I saw you wearing masks that were not mandatory in your country, I have never seen you wearing masks for the flu before. Well, you are entitled to think as you wish..real or not, we all have to live with the measures surrounding.. hmmm
I think it will be a very long time before they allow you to travel. unless your supper rich.
Contrary to what you just said its going to be quite the opposite for lots of people especially those who didn’t lose their jobs, what were they doing? working and saving..all the shopping and partying and extra curricular activities has all stopped for many and many are cooking more, so more people are saving without even realizing it.