The coronavirus pandemic has taken the world by storm. It has managed to impact almost every industry, but nothing was affected more than the tourism market. The looming threat of the virus had managed to put a temporary stop on everything from dream vacations to quick weekend getaways. A majority of travel enthusiasts are holding their breath for the pandemic to be over so they can resume their wanderlust plans.
Do you have plans to go on a trip after the pandemic ends? Are you worried about your safety? Well, if yes, then here are some tips that can help you plan a fun yet safe trip post the Covid-19 pandemic.
Tips for planning a post-pandemic trip:
While exploring new lands seems like a distant dream, for now, you can cope with the travel blues by planning your next vacation. Here are some tips for all the travel enthusiasts to keep in mid when planning their next trip:
1. Make sure you check the government guidelines:
Being cooped up at home for months had made everyone more eager to travel. Before you begin to plan your dream getaway, it is wise that you check the government guidelines thoroughly. The guidelines will update you about the information about your destination, if it is safe and allowed to travel there, and also about the entry requirements. You must keep these points in mind while dreaming about your vacation. In case the website disapproves of travel, you must avoid visiting the area for your own safety.
2. Look for local places to visit:
Although international travel is open to some places already and many more countries will soon be joining the list, you can start off by visiting local places. When it comes to the Covid-19 pandemic, the situation can be quite uncertain. A country can implement a lockdown or ban on travel, which will leave you stranded in a foreign land. To be safe and secure, you can take a local trip within the country or a stay-cation in rural areas. Or, you can visit a nearby country, from where it is easy and economical to come back in case of an emergency.
3. Check the status of your insurance:
Do you have travel insurance? If not, now is the time to get it or renew it if you already have one. Make it a point to thoroughly read the terms and conditions to ensure that your insurance covers the issues that may arise and include the country you want to travel to. Check the policy about conditions pertaining to ‘pandemic’ or ‘Covid-19’ to be safer while traveling.
4. Go for flights and stay with free cancellation:
One thing that the pandemic has taught people is that things are uncertain. Keeping in mind the uncertainty, remember that you might have to change your travel plans or even cancel them even at the last minute. Besides being flexible with the plan, you must be prepared for an event when you have to cancel the entire plan. You must look for flights and hotels that have free cancellation and refund policies. This way, even if you can’t go on the trip, you will be able to get your money back without any hassle, and you can use it later on.
5. Opt for a small and self-catered hotel:
The golden rule for safe traveling after the pandemic is to avoid crowds and interacting with more people. The best way to do that is by opting for a small and self-catered accommodation, rather than staying in a multi-chain 5-star hotel. You will get to enjoy ample space, privacy, and would be less likely to come in contact with infected people. But, remember that you will have to take care of your food and chores yourself in a sed-catered hotel.
6. Avoid going with big tour groups:
Prior to the global pandemic, a majority of people preferred traveling in with huge tour groups to have a fun time. But, once coronavirus is over, this norm might change for all the right reasons. You can go in a small group, with a few family or friends to avoid the risk of getting infected. Moreover, many countries might still have restrictions on social distancing, so it will be best to travel privately.
7. Go for a road trip rather than taking a flight:
If you have always wanted to go on a road trip along a picturesque route, now is the time. While you will be able to travel through the air to your destination, it certainly makes you exposed to higher risks. If your vacation destination isn’t too far and the road infrastructure is adequate, you can take your private car to travel. Ditching the flights to go by road will keep you and your loved ones safe. If you are worried about carrying the luggage, you can invest in roof racks to keep your precious belongings safe while you enjoy the road and surreal views.
8. Be updated with the news:
It is essential to be well-versed with the changes taking place every day in your hometown and the city you plan to visit. Find a trust-worthy source or channel that offers current news about the situation. You must gather all the details about the present situation while planning your trip. Take into account the rules and policies of the local government and decide the itinerary accordingly. Even while you are in a distant land exploring the areas, keep checking the news source, and stay in touch with the changes happening around. It will help you be prepared for any uncertainty that comes your way.
9. Get acquainted with cashless transactions:
Cashless transactions via debit or credit have already become quite common around the globe, but they are more important now than ever. To be extra safe and cautious in the time of coronavirus pandemic, it is best not to deal with paper cash as it increases your chances of getting infected. If you are familiar with using debit and credit cards or even online payment methods, you can use them while traveling. But if you aren’t, you can get acquainted with using cards for payment.
10. Improve your hygiene:
The aim of all the safety tips and guidelines is to keep you safe from the Covid-19 coronavirus. But, the best way to keep yourself from getting contaminated is by improving your personal hygiene. You can build up your immunity by taking vitamins and supplements regularly. Besides that, you must always wear a face mask and carry hand sanitizer to keep yourself safe from coming in contact with the virus. Even while you are traveling, make it a point to wash your hands frequently, avoid public spaces and crowded areas, and improve your hygiene to stay safe.
Final Thoughts
Slowly, the restrictions on travel are lifting, and it is coming as a ray of hope for people who are tired of being at home due to lockdown. While no one has a clue on when the pandemic will end, you can still utilize this time to plan the vacation of your lifetime. Get ready to jump into the details, finding the best locations and flights and hotels, and keeping yourself healthy for the next trip. You will soon be able to turn your dreams of traveling into reality, and you better be prepared for it.
