Travelling during COVID-19
Since an unprecedented pandemic hit the world a lot has changed, and travel is one of the most affected areas. It came to a complete halt for a while. After it is back to “normal”, new rules and measures have been introduced by both countries and airline companies.
It may seem complicated, but we are going to break it down and give some tips so planning for the next trip will be easier.
For each destination, there are 3 entities that may impose certain measures or require some documents.
We are going to list them, explain what usually they ask for, and point out a few reliable resources to check the requirements.
Something to note: all of these resources and entities do not take responsibility, they move it onto you, the passenger. That being said, forgetting a document or not knowing at all, is your responsibility.
1- Country of destination:
Each country puts measures upon incoming tourists, and some of them went too far to not allow tourists at all.
Often the requirements will include a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior the arrival to your destination unless you’re vaccinated.
Here are good sources to check the requirements:
This website will try to sum up all that you need to know Traveldoc
You can also check the IATA
Also, you can check the airline company’s website, usually, they list all the requirements.
2- Airline company you’re flying with:
Most of the airline companies have the same rules:
Have all the required documents
Wear a mask through the whole flight
But to make sure you need to check the airline company’s website.
3- The country you’re flying from:
Usually, that applies to residents of the country.
These requirements could be like signing a document that you’re not flying to certain countries where the number of cases is high. Good resources the same as above:
And you check the airline company’s website for requirements.
Tips for traveling during Covid-19:
One thing that is clear currently is that things change fast. Having said that, it’s not a good idea to book a long time in advance, usually booking one week in advance is okay, more than that it will be risky and then better to pay extra for an option of cancellation.
Try to choose touristy destinations, because now it is most likely not that crowded and you can enjoy touristy places without big crowds, what a fun!
Check COVID-19 measures in the country you’re planning to visit, check if they impose a curfew or if they close early or do not allow parties or any other measures. So you know what to expect and plan accordingly.
And now you’re ready to plan :).
Finally, remember that flying puts the most CO2 in the air among all other forms of transportation, choose another option if possible and help to save the planet, our only home.
Stay safe and Carpe Diem
