Travelling Abroad During the COVID Pandemic: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably turned the world upside-down and caused a lot of misery, frustration, and sadness for millions of people globally. These days, more people are getting vaccinated against the disease, and life is almost returning back to normal.
For example, people are now allowed to go abroad to most countries for holidays – something most folks need after enduring countless local and national lockdowns and heavy social restrictions on what everyone can do.
If you’re planning to travel abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some things you need to know:
You’ll Still Need to Wear a Mask
Firstly, you will need to wear a mask at all airports and during each flight you take. Mask restrictions in the UK have relaxed in recent weeks, however, airlines will request that all passengers wear a mask when they board planes and for the duration of their flights.
You can remove your mask in some situations, such as eating a meal during your flight. But, the airlines will expect you to keep your mask on and have spare masks if your flight is longer than four hours.
Wearing a mask in public may also be a mandatory requirement in countries where COVID-19 rules aren’t as relaxed as they are in the UK, so it’s worth bearing that in mind and researching the rules at your travel destination before you leave the UK.
You Can Still Get Travel Insurance
Many people worry they are unable to get travel insurance during the pandemic. Thankfully, the travel insurance industry has made assurances to all travellers that they can still get insured.
That means it’s still possible to get standard travel insurance, over 65s travel insurance, and cover for young children too. Before you get any insurance cover, it’s worth asking about their policies on flight cancellations due to COVID-19 restrictions at travel destinations.
You Still Need to up Your Hygiene Game
There’s no denying that washing your hands with soap often and for a minimum of 20 seconds has become something drummed into people’s minds since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
The thing is, you still need to keep following that advice and avoid touching your face, mouth, and nose with unwashed hands. It also makes sense to take some hand sanitiser with you wherever you go if you can’t easily find somewhere to wash your hands.
You Will Need to Show Proof of Vaccinations
As you might expect, most nations will want to check that you have been double-vaccinated before you cross into their lands. With that in mind, you should show proof of your vaccinations, such as your NHS vaccination card or in your smartphone’s NHS app.
It’s not advisable to travel without getting double-vaccinated as you’re likely to encounter entry delays at travel destinations, and you may even face deportation.
Conclusion
As more of the world is opening up to international visitors once again, it’s worth considering the above points before you book your next holiday to guarantee a happy and successful trip overseas.
