It should be no surprise that COVID-19 has changed the way that we travel. It has changed just about everything else, as well. However, the world of travel is indeed one of the most heavily impacted of all, and those impacts have changed not just how we travel, but where we can travel to, and whether or not we’re able to travel at all, from time to time. If you’re planning a trip ahead, here’s some information that may help you navigate the process in a world that’s dealing with a global pandemic.
Countries are opening and closing
The rate of countries opening and closing might not be quite as frequent as they were towards the start of the pandemic. However, there are still countries that have travel restrictions. These restrictions can apply depending on not just the country that you’re planning to go to, but also the country that you are coming from. Check out this site for details on which countries are open to foreign travelers. Regardless, make sure to check the travel advisory board for that specific country so that you can know whether it’s accepting travelers from your country, as well.
You have to be more open to changes
No one likes to have their holiday spoiled by a sudden change in plans but it’s something that we have to be a little more prepared for. There are steps that you can take to avoid delays when traveling, but you can’t do anything if an airport has to close due to an outbreak of COVID or if you’re stuck in a country due to a sudden change in travel restrictions. All you can do is make sure that you are as prepared for changes as best as possible, with extra travel funds set aside to cope with new costs, as well as backup plans for transport or accommodation when you need them. A lot of people started this pandemic getting stuck abroad for long periods of time without the money or hotels needed. Make sure that can’t happen to you.
There may be new travel restrictions outside of COVID, too
This might not be a direct impact of the pandemic that is running around, but it’s another change to how we travel that is at least happening alongside it, so it’s worth keeping in mind. For instance, a lot of countries in Europe may soon require an application for people outside of the EU to have to submit, alongside a fee. You can find more information on this site about how the EITAS application is going to work and how it’s going to require all travelers from outside the Schengen zone to do a little extra prep work. These aren’t the only new travel restrictions that are likely to come in place, so you should always make sure you do your research on what is required to enter any country.
How we fly is changing as well
We’ve all gotten used to living with the new rules and social expectations that have been around since the start of the pandemic. While there has been some controversy over recommendations and mandates over wearing masks and getting tested, you will find that the vast majority of airlines are not open to debate. If you plan on flying, then you need to make sure that you get a good idea of what requirements they ask you to follow. There have been plenty of viral videos of people getting thrown off of flights (not to mention causing a scene) because they wouldn’t follow readily published and available rules set out by their airlines.
Your safety when traveling
If you are taking the COVID pandemic seriously, then you are also likely to take seriously your risk while you are traveling. There are plenty of health tips you can follow to mitigate your risks of getting sick as best as possible. For the most part, the rules that apply at home should also apply when you are abroad. Wear a mask when you’re out in public places, wash and sanitize your hands as frequently as you need to, and avoid crowded places. Keep track of the COVID rate wherever you plan to travel so you have an idea of which destinations might be safest, too.
It’s important to keep in mind that the relevance of the information above can change six months from now. Different countries’ approaches to COVID change from season to season and new travel restrictions are likely to continue to change travel even further.
