It has been more than a year since the pandemic outbreak, which means we have been in our homes and cities that long. I bet everyone wants to travel now. Fortunately, the widespread vaccination has given us hope. But, it does not happen overnight.
Although some cities and countries have opened their borders for tourists, you have to continue taking precautions. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised traveling only when you are fully vaccinated. But, even when you are fully vaccinated, you are less likely to spread the virus, but international travel may put you at risk because of the new virus variants.
Things to Do Before Travelling
Since you are thinking about going for a trip, whether domestically or internationally, consider answering these questions:
- Do you have any severe illness or comorbidities? If you have any severe illness or comorbidity, it’s best to stay at home and keep yourself isolated.
- Does anyone from your household have an increased risk for severe illness? If you have a household member with comorbidities, it is also best to keep yourself isolated. You can enjoy traveling without any worries. However, if you get infected while traveling, you might spread the virus to your household members highly at risk.
- Are you fully vaccinated against COVID-19? It is best to be fully vaccinated before you travel. You have to complete the vaccine dose and wait for a couple of weeks to make your body build protection.
- Does your location have requirements or restrictions for travelers? Local, state, and federal guidelines have to be followed. Even though you are fully vaccinated, there are some exclusions when it comes to government guidelines. It’s best to follow their guidelines to have no worries before traveling and when coming back.
Include These in Your List
When packing your trip essentials, do not forget to include these things:
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (with at least 60% alcohol)
- Antibacterial or disinfectant wipes for surfaces
- Medicines
- Face masks (click here)
Do not forget these things, especially for face masks. Do not forget to pack a box of it.
Protect Yourself
When you are traveling, protect yourself and others by practicing the following:
- Enhanced cleaning procedures
- Social distancing
- Wearing of mask
- Contactless payments
You have to practice this wherever you are. May you be at the hotel, restaurant or dropping off your laundry at the laundromat near your hotel, you have to. You have to remember that anyone can be very ill from the virus.
If you are going to dine out at a restaurant, it is best to sit outdoors. You do not know how the air is ventilated in most restaurants. Also, it might bring you into close contact with other people.
Final Thoughts
We have been in the pandemic for more than a year, and a vacation is what we need. Although some borders have opened for tourists, it’s not yet safe to be complacent. You have all the right to enjoy, yet do not forget to take precautions during your travels.
