After over two years of being cooped up at home with countless travel restrictions and closure of borders to contain the spread of Covid-19, you probably can’t contain your travel dreams any longer now. Currently, the government has loosen some restrictions including travelling and we’re pretty sure you’re itching to travel far and wide once again.
As much as that would be a dream come true, unfortunately there’s a catch to it. Some of the countries you may want to visit may not have opened up their borders to globetrotters. Nonetheless, you may still be able to set foot at some of the best destinations in the world that are welcoming tourists.
TRAVELLING DURING COVID-19
Travelling in the midst of Covid-19 may require a whole lot of additional preparation and caution than how it used to be when planning a trip. In spite of that, it can easily be done while still minimising the risks from being infected by the many variants of Covid-19.
Keep reading as we have listed down some of the important things you should consider when mapping out your travel schedule for a safe and well travelled trip.
#1 IMMUNISATION OF TRAVELLERS
A key question to ponder before travelling is “Are you fully vaccinated against Covid-19?” If yes, then you may easily proceed with the next step of planning a trip. At the moment, according to the Ministry of Health Malaysia, a person is considered to be fully vaccinated after receiving two doses of Covid-19 vaccine along with an additional vaccine (booster).
#2 CHECK TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
It is a good practice to educate yourself on safety protocols before travelling. One of them would be to check travel restrictions and the Covid-19 rates both from your home State as well as your destination. By doing so, you would be able to prepare yourself for the worst scenarios that may spring up in case the Covid-19 cases inflate.
#3 TRAVELLING REQUIREMENTS (CARE KITS)
As fun as it should be to travel, it is also extremely important to practise self-discipline as it helps to lower your risk of infection. One ultimate way of doing so is by carrying a personalised care kit wherever you go. Some of the essential items you would need includes:
- Face masks
- Hand sanitisers
- RTK antigen test for pre and post travels
- Pulse Oximeter
- Gloves
- Face shields
- General medications
#4 SWAB MORE THAN ONCE
Include Covid-19 swabs on your pre and post- travel checklist. It is advisable to constantly check for updates on when you should get tested before boarding the flight and after landing in your home country.
Some international destinations require testing before you’re able to visit their country, unsurprisingly even if you’re fully vaccinated. So, if you aren’t sure on the requirements for the destination you’re travelling to, do check in with your travel agent or best to get in touch with the Ministry of Health of the relevant country to clarify your doubts.
Apart from that, even if you’ve tested negative upon returning from your trip, it is best to stay home for a few days just to be sure that you’re clear from Covid-19 as symptoms of the disease may present only later.
#5 A SAFER TRAVEL MODE
Another important factor to consider is transportation. This is especially important if you plan to travel over the holidays as it may be crowded and can put you at high risk of infection. Travelling in public transports will require extra vigilance compared to using personal or rented vehicles. So, it is wise to rent a vehicle in advance before reaching your destination. This will substantially limit your contact with others.
#6 GET TO KNOW THE LOCALS
A little research goes a long way. With that being said, prepare yourself with contact and address details of the hospitals or pharmacies nearest to the hotel you’re residing. Thus, you could ring up in case of an emergency.
Get those details, put in writing and keep them close at hand!
It is good to be mindful of every possible scenario you could encounter. Being proactive can help keep yourself and those travelling with you safe from infection of Covid-19. Some other things you would want to consider as you plan your itinerary should include the belows:
Sources: Forbes, Everyday Health
