There's no denying it: Travel is a bit uncertain during these times. While airlines have adopted a new method of increasing safety measures, some people are still questioning whether something as seemingly simple as dining out is safe. The problem is that pandemic cases are fluctuating all over the world and in response, every town, city, state, and country is following a different set of guidelines and laws.
This is making travel even more complicated and without an instructive map defining hotspot areas as well as quarantine guidelines, it's nearly impossible to know what's safe and what's not. Luckily, there are some helpful measures that travelers can take when it comes to planning their trips and booking vacations. While nothing is ever 100%, these rules of thumb and simple actions can help bring travelers much-needed peace of mind when it comes to crossing state lines and boarding planes.
Check Travel Restrictions And Bans
Every trip planned should start out with the most simple of actions: Check the destination's website to make sure there are no bans or restrictions in place. Some countries have closed their borders to the US, while others are slowly allowing travel again, with proper procedures followed.
While Canada's border remains closed to the US for non-essential travel, there are some states that are slowly allowing travelers in, within reason. However, every location has their own guidelines in place, and knowing these beforehand can make a world of difference as far as safety goes.
Get Tested Beforehand And Start Preparing Two Weeks Prior
One helpful step that travelers can take in order to be extra safe is to get tested. Even for those who are experiencing no symptoms, many places are allowing free tested in order to get a clean bill of health. Having this as proof can also help when booking accommodations as well as purchasing plane tickets.
For those who have confirmed vacations, start preparing two weeks prior to the vacation date. Avoid high-risk activities and close interactions and maintain a safe social distance of six feet from others. Avoiding crowds and get-togethers two weeks before a trip can help to ensure that a traveler is in good health and help with potential contact tracing.
Stock Up On Face Masks, Hand Sanitizer, And Take Safety Measures
When in doubt, mask up! As of now, 41 states have required masks for being out in public, and when social distancing is not possible. Many countries are following suit and it's not likely anyone would be allowed on a plane without one - always have an extra mask or two on hand in the event one can't be washed right away.
Hand sanitizer is key, especially when going through airports and dealing with other public transportation. Make sure to maintain safe distances from others and inquire about plane seats as well as accommodation guidelines - Marriott just required its hotel guests to begin wearing masks, so it's always good to know a hotel's plan beforehand.
Quarantine If It's Required
One concern for travelers has been a two-week quarantine. While certain places are open and allowing visitors, they might be required a two-week isolation period in the hotel or resort travelers are staying at. While this is a bit of an inconvenience for some, it's not likely to change anytime soon - some locations are requiring a minimum of one week, so check this before booking anything.