Safe Travelling in times of Pandemic and Endemic

Travelling 101: New Norm of Safe Travelling during COVID-19

By Afrina Ghazali | December 3rd, 2021

After numerous lockdowns, everyone is bouncing off the walls as the international borders are slowly reopening. We get it, we cannot contain our excitement too as one country announces its border reopening after the other. However, unlike our old tradition of travelling during the pre-covid era, this time, there are many factors to consider and things to prepare to ensure safe travelling throughout.

Keep reading to follow the tips that will help you remain healthy and minimize all the risks of getting yourself infected.

1. Assess the Current COVID-19 Rate at Your Preferred Destination

Be sure to check the current COVID-19 Rates before you start your engine or book that flight ticket. Study the pattern too, if possible, because you do not want to be cancelled on your travel planning due to the sudden surge of COVID-19 cases in the country you wish to escape to.

It is also a good idea to always keep yourself updated of your current location COVID-19 status. You may not be able to travel from a seriously infected area.

2. Get Yourself Vaccinated

Vaccinations have been rolled out in most countries and it's believed to be a protection tool for all. Although you can still be infected if exposed to the virus but at least if you get yourself vaccinated, it can help your body be prepared for any possible circumstances and prevent any serious illnesses when contracting the virus.

For those who could be allergic to vaccines, be sure you take extra precautions before travelling.

3. Avoid Spontaneous Planning

Back in those days, spontaneous planning can always be a thing; you can wake up in the morning and book your night flight in the evening. With COVID-19 still 'on air' though, it is best to put any spontaneous travelling on hold first. Make sure you plan your trip well and consider everything thoroughly from places to visit, where to eat, what time to visit and many others.

4. Plan Your Medium of Transport

Some people prefer taking public transports to cut the expenses meanwhile some prefer renting a minivan to travel comfortably with their family. Well, there is no wrong or right with any of that. You can still take public transports or rent your own vehicles, whichever suits your budget and preference. For those renting the vehicles of their choices, most car rentals now will sanitise them before handing you the key, so it should not be worrying.

However, it is crucial for those who prefer taking the bus or train to examine the time and try to avoid peak hours. If it cannot be helped, you may want to consider switching your plan by ordering an Uber or Grab.

5. Minimise or Avoid Eating Out

Don't you just love the idea of having street food or indulging in different cuisine in a classic traditional setup restaurant? Go for it then!

But wait, instead of having it in your everyday itinerary, why not try to only include it just once or twice throughout your entire trip and stick to simple takeaways for the rest of the days? This way, not only will you be in a safer place, but you will also most likely save up some pounds by having a simpler food selection while having them in your hotel room with your loved ones.

6. Refrain Yourself from any Activities in Crammed Indoor Spaces

Museums, bars, theatres, bazaars - these are the examples that can give you just about the right idea on your where-not-to-go's. Well, we won't exactly tell you that these are the places you must not visit but try to cut back on any activities that will curb you in cramped and confined spaces. Instead, try to explore more activities that will let you enjoy nature and the open air.

7. Practise the SOP at all times

To protect yourself and the people around you, it is best that you follow these steps during your travel:

Maintain a safe distance of 2 meters from other people

Avoid being in contact with anyone who is unwell

Avoid direct contact with frequently touched surfaces in the public such as elevator buttons, handrails and doorknobs

Wear a face mask at all times in public spaces and double masking if possible

Avoid touching your nose, mouth, eyes; practically any part of your face

Wash and sanitise your hands often; before and after eating, before and after entering a shop, before and after going into the loo and let's just say, before and after you get something done

8. Pack all Your Magic Gears

Minus all important documents and travel essentials such as passport, visa, clothing, skincare and shoes - let's add more things to bring onto your existing list. Make sure to pack these extra handies:

Hand Sanitizer - put one big bottle in your check-in luggage and one 50ml bottle in your handbag. Sanitise your hands often

Antibacterial Wipes - slip in a mini one in your handbag and the rest in your luggage. If you're uncertain of the cleanliness of the things you will touch, you can use it to wipe down the surfaces

Face Masks - although some countries do allow people to go out without masks on, it is still best to wear them since you will have no idea of the conditions of people you will be surrounded with

Medications - include some meds like cough drops, panadol and eyedrops in your bags for any in-case situations

COVID-19 Test Kits - just slip in a few test kits in your bag just in case you suddenly feel under the weather

9. Enjoy Your Well-Deserving Holiday!

Well, if you have done all the necessary preparations, go enjoy breathing a new different air! The unforeseen pandemic and the lockdowns have certainly put most people under great pressure, if not by little. So, go have fun and have a great time putting your mind at ease. Because you certainly deserve it!

Explore other relaxing beauty and wellness activities that you could consider including in your itinerary:

Spa and Wellness

Beauty Drip / Beauty Injection

Facial Treatments

Slimming Treatments