Before 2019, the travel industry was booming. People were exploring more than ever. But the last two years of travel, especially international travel, have been unlike any other. The global pandemic meant that planned trips were canceled and future trips were put on hold.
It left many with the task of reporting a claim on travelers insurance or trying to get their money back from an airline. Many people now find themselves with unused travel money that’s eating a hole in their pocket.
However, with the world opening back up, now might finally be the right time to use it.
But what can we expect in the world of travel post-COVID? Has travel changed? How can you best prepare yourself for your next trip? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you venture back out into the world of tourism along with the things you can do to prepare.
Expect to Get Tested
First things first — you should expect that you will have to be tested, often multiple times, throughout the course of your trip. This is especially true if you’ll be traveling internationally. You will likely be required to get tested once to get into the country you’re traveling to and another time to get back to your home country.
Check the Requirements of Your Trip’s Destination
That said, be sure to check out the requirements of the location you will be visiting. Each destination will have slightly different requirements for entry. So what you should expect as far as travel goes will differ depending on where you’re headed.
These requirements may change depending on your vaccination status as well.
Be Aware of the Current Situation in Your Destination
What is the pandemic situation in your desired destination? Are cases on the rise? Are things under control? These are important questions to answer before you decide exactly where you will go.
It’s best to head to somewhere in which officials have a handle on the situation. But if that’s not possible, you want to be prepared for the situation.
Take Precautions to Keep Yourself Healthy
There are several ways to try to make sure you stay healthy no matter your destination. Make sure you do what you can to take care of yourself while traveling whether you’re flying or going on a road trip.
Get Vaccinated
Getting a vaccine may help protect you from contracting COVID. There are multiple options for vaccines available. And in many cases, there are less strict travel requirements for those who are vaccinated.
Wear a Mask
Wearing a mask is one way to protect yourself and others. Masks are still required on all flights and in many public places or on rideshare apps. Be sure you bring your mask with you everywhere you go and wear it when you’re in public or crowded spaces.
Eat Healthy and Drink Water
A simple way to take care of yourself is to watch what you’re eating and drink plenty of water. Your health starts with what you put into your body. This can help boost your immune system and keep you feeling good overall.
Take Vitamin C or Other Immunity Boosters
If you want an extra boost in your immune system, try taking some vitamin C supplements or other immune-boosting supplements. There are simple fizz tablets you can add to water or gummies that you can purchase over the counter.
Get Plenty of Sleep
It’s easier said than done when it comes to travel, but your sleep is so important in keeping yourself healthy and COVID-free. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep a night and listen to your body if you’re feeling exhausted.
Plan Safe Activities
No matter where you will be traveling to, you can plan to do things that are safer options such as trying to plan outdoor activities. Plan to do things that won’t be around large crowds. If you will be in a public area that can be more crowded, try to go at a less busy time.
Stay Home if You’re Feeling Unsure
At the end of the day, if you’re not feeling 100% sure about your decision to travel, you can always stay home. It also goes hand in hand with your health. If you’re feeling sick or unwell, stay home. It’s important to be responsible with your decision to travel.
Traveling is something that inspires and excites us. Make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip. You can’t do that if you’re feeling nervous, unsettled, or sick the entire time.
The world is slowly gaining some sense of normalcy after two years of uncertainty and chaos. Travel is opening back up, and now is a great time to plan how you will use your unused travel points or vouchers.
While things might have changed and there are new requirements in place, travel is still something that can be enjoyed to the fullest whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a foodie exploring new tastes.
Sam Timmerman writes and researches for the car insurance comparison site, CarInsuranceComparison.com. She enjoys traveling and inspiring others to take the time to travel more.
