It’s no revelation that everything is more than a little unsettled during the current Corona Virus pandemic. There is a lot of concern and uncertainty, but that doesn’t mean it is impossible to travel responsibly.
Remember
- Any time you travel outside of your home you are taking new risks.
- Viruses are spread most quickly in crowds, when in contact with others, and in confined spaces. This makes airplanes particularly concerning.
- We are in a pandemic, which means a virulent and dangerous virus is affecting everyone and everywhere.
- If you are showing symptoms or in a high risk category avoid travel. Be concerned about spreading the virus at least as much as you are concerned about contracting it.
Research
- Where you are going (check the web site of your destination):
- What is their current threat level?
- What are their restrictions? Many destinations are doing a temperature check on arrival. Some require a COVID19 test prior to travel. There is a possibility of quarantine in many destinations.
- What is the availability of resource like transportation, food and entertainment? Buses, trains, travel share, restaurants etc. are sometimes not available and often running at limited capacity.
- What are the travel requirements for your airline?
- Airports and airplanes require wearing masks. Choose a mask that is comfortable and allows you to breath as well as possible.
- Airlines vary in the amount of capacity they are allowing. If you are in a high risk category look for airlines that are not filling all seats.
- What is the airline doing to ensure cleanliness? Most american airlines are doing a deep clean between flights, are using high quality air filters and providing limited service to protect customers.
Consider
- If you are showing symptoms, high risk, coming from a high risk area or want to visit a high risk area it is probably best to reschedule your trip. There is a lot more consideration for cancellations or rescheduling than in the past.
- If you are not showing symptoms, if you minimize contact with strangers and avoid crowds you can minimize risk of exposure and spread.
- Be respectful of requirements where you are.
- Things are changing quickly, have a plan in case you start showing symptoms, or stay at home orders or travel bands are put in place during your trip.
- Take along hand sanitizers and an extra mask or two. Wash regularly when out in public.
It may sound like a lot of worry, but if you are considerate and plan ahead it is possible to have enjoyable and safe travel experiences, even in the current environment.