While holidays for leisure have been put on a halt for those residing in the UK due to the Coronavirus pandemic, for some people, taking an overseas trip is a necessity.
Whether it’s for work-related meetings or another crucial reason, some people still have to board flights. If you must take a trip, read on for our top safety tips on minimising risk.
How to travel safely during the Coronavirus pandemic:
Here’s how you can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading coronavirus when travelling:
- Know the Covid-19 rate where you reside
While COVID-19 is still around, it is crucial to know your area’s COVID rating. You will be able to then assess whether you’re at greater risk of catching or spreading the virus while travelling. It may also be necessary to quarantine when you arrive at your destination if you’ve come from a high-risk area.
- Seek information about the Covid-19 rate of your travel destination
Being clear on the coronavirus risk rating of your destination is equally important. For instance, according to iVisa in order to enter the Sultanate of Oman, you are required to have foreign health insurance that will pay for the cost of Covid-19 therapy for a month.You can get this information online via the location’s public health department. Think about the risks of getting ill and whether you’d be able to get adequate healthcare in the worst-case scenario.
- Put your health first
It goes without saying that if you’re at high risk of becoming fatally ill should you catch coronavirus, do NOT travel. We suggest that you think about whether you must travel and the potential consequences of doing so, not just to you, but to your family and those around you while you travel.
- Take a test before and after travel
You will need to take a test before travelling as proof that you are not carrying coronavirus. After your trip, you must take another test to determine whether you must quarantine in the UK. However, it is possible to pay for private tests, like the test to release at approved test provider Medicspot, which can reduce your isolation period upon returning.
You and your family will also need to take a test during your trip if you develop any symptoms, so be sure to take some Rapid Antigen Test for kids and yourself. Of course, it can be more difficult to take a test when not in your home country, so keep this in mind.
- Be selective with where you stay
Many hotels are carrying out additional sanitisation and procedures to prevent the spread of the virus. It’s always a good idea to carry out your research before travelling to find a place to stay that is safe. This will help you feel safer and while travelling and will help to reduce risk overall.
Many fantastic coronavirus-friendly hotels are carrying out extra efforts to reduce the spread of the virus.
- Abide by the rules of your destination
Do not let your guard down while travelling. This means you should still be practising all of the social distancing rules, wear your mask when needed, and avoid unsafe activities.
You should try and avoid socialising with others at all costs and, if you do, ensure that you are keeping your distance. When travelling on the aeroplane or train to your destination, ensure that your mask is on at all times where social distancing may not be possible.
- Cook your own food
Finally, being savvy about where you get your food from will help to minimise risk. We recommend buying and cooking your food to reduce cross-contamination. Shop for your food and bring it to where you are staying to prepare and cook it. If this isn’t possible, only order food deliveries from trusted places such as the hotel’s food service.
While travelling during the pandemic isn’t risk-free, you can minimise the risks to you and your health by following these essential safety tips.
