travel during pandemic

Since so many people have been stuck in one place over the past year, everyone is likely itching to get out there and travel to another location. However, travelers will still have to undergo and conform to oftentimes rigorous stipulations to ensure everyone’s safety.

Temperature scans, symptom screening, and quarantining after travel are just a few. It might be a hassle, but it’s in everyone’s best interest. As always, safety has to come first. Just ask this San Francisco wrongful death attorney how important the slightest of safety precautions can be.

Even with these checks and requirements in place, you’ll probably still want to travel as the summer months are quickly approaching. You’ll want to do it in a manner that keeps you, your family, and others safe and healthy. In order to take that much-needed get-a-way, it’s important to stay patient, flexible, and learn more about how to travel in the new normal.

1. The Covid-19 Tests

If you’re traveling by plane within the country or traveling abroad, you’ll likely be required to take a Covid-19 test. Most countries will ask for verification that you do not have Covid within 24-72 hours before traveling to your destination. You will need a PCR test, which detects if the virus is in your body. Don’t confuse this with the antibody tests. Most countries will not accept those.

2. Mask Up

You should expect to wear a mask during your entire time of traveling. This includes in airports, on the flight, while you’re on any other form of transportation, restaurants, and hotel lobbies. Be sure you have at least one comfortable mask, because you’ll likely have it on the majority of your trip if you’re around others. To be extra safe in crowds, consider double masking.

3. Don’t Be Surprised If Things Change

Regulations and requirements are changing every day, so you need to expect the unexpected. Some places changed their quarantining requirements from no requirement to 14-day quarantine after returning home, so make sure you understand that if things change you might not be able to return to work right away. Know the risks and have a plan in place.

4. Check Ahead for Cancellation Policies

If things do change and you have to cancel or change your reservations, it’s a good idea to know ahead of time what you will be responsible for financially and what you can be refunded. Some places don’t offer a money-back guarantee if there is a change in travel restrictions, so check ahead and be sure that the possibility of losing money is worth booking a vacation.

5. When You Return

Before you take a vacation or travel during Covid, you should consider what happens after you get home. Keep in mind that during travel there is an increased risk of contracting the virus. Is there anyone in your household or at your workplace that is at an increased risk if they do get sick? Are your local hospitals overwhelmed? Think about others and how they’re affected.

To sum things up, before you travel you’ll want to consider several things. Increased virus transmission, tests, quarantine regulations, and possible missed work are just a few things to keep in mind. Most countries still advise travel only when necessary, so if possible hold off on vacationing or unnecessary traveling for your safety and the safety of others.