Somewhere somebody once said that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page, but we need to take extra measures when we plan to travel during the COVID-19 crisis.
Throughout the evolution of civilization, travel and transportation have been important activities. This activity has not only led to the discovery of new places but also resulted in the transfer of thoughts and ideas, which inadvertently helped develop humans as a civilization.
But unfortunately, travel during the covid-19 crisis turned 360 degrees and flipped from the traditional ways.
How COVID -19 has affected travelling?
The world was once your platter, where no place was too far. But now, it has become a battleground of sorts where even a simple task like grocery shopping feels like a life & death situation.
The world has become a collection of bubbles, but life has to move on. Governments all over the world have started the careful dismantling of the bubble.
There are many policy changes to a recovery in the post-apocalyptic world. The following measures need to be followed when you plan to travel during the COVID-19 crisis.
1. Is the destination safe?
Before you book travel tickets, you must check the destination properly.
The number of cases rising or falling at your destination is what you need to keep in mind. You will likely get infected during travel, as you will meet new people and visit various spots.
Once you get infected, there is an excellent chance that you won’t even know about it and infect others. So, make sure you check the COVID19 status in that particular area before making a decision.
2. What are the restrictions or requirements for travellers?
Governments have changed the rules and regulations for travellers after this pandemic crisis. Now travellers need to follow some restrictions and requirements while travelling.
For example, a traveller must be quarantined for 14 days after reaching the destination or returning to his place. Once the quarantine is over, the traveller can go to any public place.
This is the basic rule for anyone travelling during this pandemic. If you are travelling internationally, please check the destination’s foreign affairs office and the ministry of health for any details about the restrictions.
3. What are the illnesses you are suffering from?
Coronavirus does not see the age of people. It can affect anyone, from a child to an old person. Older people with low immunity and certain health conditions are at increased risk for this COVID-19. A young adult is also at a higher risk of getting infected if he/she has some critical health issues.
If you plan to travel during the COVID-19 crisis, talk to any health care provider for a full evaluation of your health before you plan any holiday.
If you come out clean, it will become easier for you to travel at ease though taking necessary precautions is still very important. You might get infected and show no symptoms due to your potent immunity, but your loved ones might get infected from you.
What safety precautions to take when travelling during the COVID-19 crisis?
Discussed below are some essential safety precautions that you must take while travelling:
1. Wear a mask
First and foremost thing you should wear a mask. You need to wear it properly, and you can learn how to wear a mask properly if you don’t know by referring to an online source.
A mask should cover your nose and mouth adequately, especially when you are in a public place. You have to wear a mask throughout your travelling.
A surgical or N-95 mask prevents you from getting the infection and prevents others if you are infected. But clothes mask not effective as the above two.
2. Social distancing
The second most important safety precaution is to maintain social distance. Yes, each person must stay at least 1 meter apart from others, especially after the COVID-19 Pandemic crisis. Be it at the airport or inside a flight. Maintain social distancing everywhere you go.
3. Keep washing hands
Washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds is very important. Carry a small hand sanitiser to clean your hands at every 2 hours interval. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth at any cost, especially outside.
You can carry a hand sanitiser for that extra protection. Sanitize your hands frequently with a 70% alcohol-based hand sanitiser and not less than that. Click this link to get more details about hand washing.
4. Maintain a safe distance from sick people
When you travel during the COVID-19 crisis, it is important to stay away from anyone who seems to be coughing or sneezing near you. If they appear sick, sit at least 1 meter apart from them.
Do not make them feel bad about being sick, as this is not in their control. Anybody can get infected. As humans, we should not blame anyone for being sick.
5. Consult a doctor immediately when you see any health symptoms in you
Watch out for any health symptoms of COVID-19. If you develop a fever or dry cough, consult a health practitioner immediately without delay.
6. Avoid the crowd
Do not gather near a crowded area like a parade or a concert. Avoid as much crowd as possible.
7. Self-isolate after you return back
Once you return from your destination and as soon as you land in your city, isolate yourself for at least 14 days. This needs to be done before you contact any family members.
What are the travel needs?
- Pack a few face masks (surgical or N 95) and alcohol-based sanitisers for extra protection.
- Bring enough medicines to help resolve any health issues during travelling.
- Pack certain dry foods and water in your bag in case the restaurants are closed, and outdoor dining options are unavailable in your destination.
The Bottom Line
Though we have all faced devastation and challenging times in the last few months, we are all in this together. Just as it is the rule of nature to change, nothing is permanent.
So, this difficult time shall too pass and bring something better. This is not an individual problem anymore but for everyone living on this planet.
If the tips mentioned above on travel during the COVID- 19 crisis are followed thoroughly, travelling will become much easier and safer for you and your loved ones. Stay safe and stay healthy.
