A little back in time, a typical travel checklist would contain packing essential documents, clothes, toiletries, gadgets or smartphone essentials, over-the-counter medications, travel aids, etc. Cut to the present day, as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic; a travel checklist has changed by leaps and bounds. Many new items have gained entry into the travel checklist. Considering them is essential for the safety of travelers.
Travel Checklist During COVID Pandemic
If you are planning a vacation with friends or family, check out this essential travel checklist for traveling in times of covid.
1Check the travel restrictions of your travel destination
Staying on top of the safety protocols before you pick your luggage and get going is essential to ensure your and your travel companions’ safety. Hence, educate yourself on the state and city mandates. Some states require travelers to take the Covid-19 test, while some states require you to quarantine for three to four days, and some don’t have any restrictions. Knowing the travel restrictions of your travel destination will help you prepare for the worst. Also, if you don’t comply with their norms, you may have to pay a hefty fine.
2Check the sanitizing protocols of your accommodation
Make sure you check the covid-19 sanitizing protocols of the accommodation before booking it for your stay. Selecting a hotel or a rental property with high sanitization standards keeps you from prolonged exposure to the virus or contracting the infection.
Check out their website and find out the sanitization measures they are adopting.
Owing to the current situation, we recommend you to stay at rental properties, as they limit your interactions. For instance, some short-term rentals in Austin provide contactless check-in, thorough cleaning, and disinfection, etc., to ensure the safety of their staff and guests.
3Get yourself tested before the trip
Even if your travel destination does not mandate covid-testing, get tested to safeguard your health and ensure the safety of your fellow travelers. You can either take a PCR or rapid test before leaving for the destination or look for a covid-19 testing site at the destination.
Getting tested is essential because many covid cases are asymptomatic. Hence, you need to know if you are a carrier.
4Find the nearest hospital beforehand
Wherever you stay, find out the nearest hospital for emergencies. Make a list of all the hospitals, clinics, or doctors near your accommodation, and keep this list handy. You can also request the front desk to make this list for you.
Also, check your insurance plan to find out the coverage they are offering while you are in another state.
5Download covid-related mobile apps
In a world where technology is dominating, our lives have become easy. Many states and cities have developed dedicated applications to monitor and restrict the transmission of the virus. These apps keep you loaded with essential information needed while traveling.
Download a relevant application to know the status of your destination in real-time. You can use the data to change your itinerary or plan.
6Get a shot before heading out
Getting a jab is essential, irrespective of whether you are traveling or not. It not only protects you and your fellow travelers from the virus but also ensures the safety of the people surrounding you. Moreover, it also prevents the loss of healthcare resources. With a shot, you will spare precious resources for covid-19 patients.
7Make sure to carry your covid essentials
Last but not least, ensure that you pack all your pandemic essentials and carry them along. Pack multiple masks in your luggage and keep one handy in your handbag. Also, carry hand sanitizers, sanitizer sprays, wipes, filters, etc.
The bottom line
Although the active cases of the Coronavirus infection are declining, not following safety protocols can be dangerous, more so if you are traveling. So, take care of all these things before you leave for a vacation. Don’t forget to practice double masking and social distancing.
We hope you enjoy a safe vacation!
