How to travel safely and stress free during the COVID-19 Pandemic? With the dangers and massive effects brought by the pandemic 2019 Corona Virus Disease (CoViD-19), intensive restrictions are doing by various countries to ensure that its people are protected from being the next victim of this disease. Travel advisories and policies are constrained both for those who are going in and out of the countries, locals, or foreigners.
Since we are aware that our safety lies in our hands, we have to ensure that we are in our best condition when we travel at this time. Besides following the traveling policies, here are the things that we must do to travel safely and protected against Covid-19.
Protecting your Health
Before your scheduled travel, consult health care provider to ensure your health stability. Contact your health insurance to see if international travel coverage is included in your package.
Also, research your travel destination. Check the health risks, where and how to find medical care and assistance especially if you have particular health needs to attend, and the travel vaccines and medicines it requires for its visitors, and be sure to have those. Also, determine its local warning systems, evacuation routes, and shelters. Know the travel warnings through the US Department of State travel warnings and the travel health notices from CDC (www.cdc.gov/travel/notices).
Things to Know Before you Go
For additional safety, designate an emergency contact and share your essential documents, travel plans, and information. Along with your usual travel essentials, prepare and bring a travel health kits with:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medicines for usual problems like diarrhea, allergies and motion sickness, pain or fever
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- First-aid supplies
- Health insurance cards and documents
Moreover, make yourself prepared in case an emergency happens. Identify a particular place where you and your family can meet if separated. Keep a list of emergency contacts and include the home emergency, US embassy/consulate, and health care facilities. You can register with the Smart Travel Program before the scheduled travel.
Travel Safely
As you enjoy your travel, make yourself protected by guaranteeing your safe and stable health at all times. Follow local instructions and road safety tips, contact the embassy if you need help or assistance, and see a doctor if you are sick or injured.
Most of all, check your contact person at home regularly.
