Is It Safe to Travel Right Now? COVID-19 Travel Tips and Guidelines

According to the Center For Disease Control (CDC), the United States has had close to 4.5 million COVID-19 cases as of July 31. The country has also seen just over 150,000 deaths due to the virus.

Summer is in full swing and most people would’ve taken trips by now. But, many are choosing to stay home and avoid airplanes, hotels, and crowded public scenes.

On the other hand, many of you may be itching to travel after being cooped up inside of your homes over the last four months. As travel restrictions start to loosen up across the world, you may be wondering, “Is it safe to travel during COVID-19?”

Keep reading to learn the answer.

What Precautions Should I Take?

We as a society need to work in tandem with airlines and airport staff to help reduce the risk and spread of coronavirus.

There are certain measures we can all take while using common sense to protect ourselves from becoming infected or passing on the virus to others. Taking these steps will make for stress free travel.

In the Airport

When you’re in the airport you can take advantage of the massive space by ensuring to keep your distance from everyone. When waiting for flight information or ordering food at a cafe, stand in open areas whenever possible. 

Keep in mind that ticket kiosks harbor a lot of germs as well as handrails and elevator buttons. Wearing utility-grade gloves has been an essential part of traveling during these times. The gloves will protect you from directly touching surfaces, and possibly infecting yourself with different types of bacteria—or worst, the coronavirus itself. This protective measure will also remind you to avoid touching your face.

Keep a couple of small hand sanitizer bottles ready in your carry-on bag or backpack. Use the sanitizer as frequently as possible. And of course, wear a mask. If you want a mask that’s a bit more comfortable, RushOrderTees offers a 12-pack of cloth face masks that are made of stretchy fabric that sits tightly around the face. They’re easily re-usable and washable, plus they come in black so you won’t get make-up stains all over them.

Going Through Security

The TSA has invoked its new security procedures for travel during COVID-19. Passengers are required to keep possession of their boarding pass and not hand them back and forth to TSA agents.

Also, there will be separate x-ray bins for food and other personal belongings. Food should be separated into its own clear plastic bag.

This will ensure that an agent won’t have to go through your bag and maintain the social distancing requirement, as food often sets off screening alarms. Also, make sure you don’t pack any items that are prohibited. 

Security checkpoint lines will be staggered and everyone should stay at least three to six feet apart when passing through.

On the Plane

When you’re on board the plane you should follow WHO coronavirus travel advice. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and wipe down commonly touched surfaces with a towel or rag that has disinfectant on it and wear a mask at all times. 

Another thing you should do is follow proper food hygiene and safety practices

Pack Wisely for Business Travel

When you absolutely need to travel, it makes sense to travel lightly, especially if you are only going to be on the trip for a few days. However, if you are thinking of using a stroller-type luggage, it may defeat the purpose because that alone weighs several pounds. 

Instead, you can opt for a lightweight, expandable daypack for travel. You can stash all the clothing and toiletries you need in one backpack if you are not planning on being away for long. With a light backpack, you can steer away from additional baggage fees, as well.

Moreover, it will be easy to carry around if you have the time or in the mood to do a little sightseeing while on your business trip. Hand sanitizers, wet wipes, alcohol sprays, and the like would be readily accessible too when you use a travel backpack.

Is It Safe to Travel?

The answer to the question, “Is it safe to travel?” is a complicated one. It should be based on personal preference at this point. But, if you follow the correct safety measures mentioned above you should be fine.

Looking for more content like this? Check out our Travel Tips blog for more great info!

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