Travelling nowadays is not what it used to be – at least, not what it has been for the past two decades. Ever since the September 11 terrorist attacks in the US, international travel changed completely. Increased travel restrictions were put in place such as tighter security checks and more limits on what could be carried onboard planes. Since then, we had become accustomed to this process, until 2020 brought around completely different travel procedures. Below we have a look at some of the things we?ll have to take into consideration when going on holiday this year.
1) A negative covid test result
Many countries still require you to provide negative covid test results before entering, so do your best to prevent yourself from catching it in the days leading up to your holiday. Ensure you leave yourself enough time to take the test before leaving, in time for the results to be released before you arrive at your destination. Plan ahead and find out the places you can get officially tested at home and wherever you are having your holiday, to allow for a smoother experience.
2) Have your accommodation booked in advance
Nowadays, it?s not a smart move to head over to another country without having a room booking in advance. Some countries won?t even let you in without a prebooked hotel that you can quarantine in for the first few days. Even two years after the start of the covid pandemic we are still experiencing restrictions as countries battle to contain the neverending stream of new variants wreaking havoc. Book your accommodation in advance and save yourself a lot of time and hassle along the way.
3) A travel hygiene kit
As well as your normal hygiene kit bring a specific one for travel items. This would include disposable masks, hand sanitiser, wipes, tissues – basically anything to reduce the risk of contracting covid while travelling. There will be things you may touch along the way such as door handles and poles, or if you are in a confined space with other people, you will want to do all you can to minimise the potential risk.
4) Check ahead if places you want to see are open
Unfortunately, many places such as restaurants, bars, museums and stores to name a few have fallen victim to the pandemic and closed down. Don?t assume that your favourite store from a few years ago or that quaint little back street cafe you?ve read about online are still in business. Plan and ensure that these places are still in business to avoid time being wasted and disappointment. Sometimes, however, even your research won?t be enough as some places had closed so abruptly they didn?t even bother to post it online, meaning you may still be in for a surprise.