How to plan for that international trip during the pandemic

PLANNING an international holiday during the pandemic shouldn’t be a daunting task if you organise your trip in advance. Clinton Moodley provides some tips.

Research, research, research

Spontaneous travel has been a trend of late, but in a Covid-19 world, research is king. Research your preferred destination beforehand. Find out whether the destination is part of South Africa’s Covid-19 list, what the requirements are and if you need to quarantine. When choosing a destination, also look at the number of Covid-19 cases and high-risk areas. While it may seem like a wonderful idea to pack your bags and leave on the first flight, spending extra time planning is key.

Flight tickets

As airlines resume operations, many have created new options to lure travellers. Shop around for the best deal. Weigh the airline’s pros and cons. Try to ensure that your booking is flexible; that way you can change the dates if needed.

Accommodation safety and health protocols are key

Decide on the type of accommodation you want to book. Do you want to stay at a resort, hotel or flat? Before you book ensure that the facility follows the necessary health and safety measures. Do not be afraid to ask questions and check the reviews from travellers online.

Documentation

Make copies of your passport and other travel documents such as your hotel bookings and flight tickets in case of an emergency. If you need to apply for a visa, make sure this is done at least a month before your trip.

Travel insurance

Taking out travel insurance is of paramount importance when traveling. Travellers should ensure that they get comprehensive travel insurance and confirm the insurance covers them for Covid-19 related incidents. Get as many quotes as possible and ask questions to make sure you get the best deal.

Take a Covid-19 test

A Covid-19 test is mandatory if you want to travel to an international destination. On arrival at an airport, travellers need to present a negative Covid-19 test result not older than 72 hours from the time of departure.

Pack the essentials

Besides packing clothing, gadgets and shoes, pack a separate vanity bag with medication, cloth face masks, alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least a 70% alcohol content and disinfectant wipes of the same quality to use on surfaces in the airport, on the plane or at your accommodation.

The early bird catches the plane flight

Head to the airport at least 3 to 4 hours before your departure so you have ample time to go through the new airport procedures.

Covid-19 requirements might delay the process as some travellers might need to undergo other health checks or possibly a Covid-19 test should they have any symptoms.

On the flight

All international airlines have enforced strict Covid-19 rules, including the wearing of masks on board. Airlines such as Air France, KLM, Air Mauritius, Emirates and others have reinforced daily aircraft cleaning procedures. Most planes are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (Hepa) filters identical to those used in hospital operating theatres. These filters renew cabin air every 3 minutes and extract more than 99.99% of the smallest viruses, including coronavirus-type viruses.

Practice social distancing during activities

Even though all you want to think about is snapping a picture at the Eiffel Tower in Paris or visiting the Taj Mahal in India, you need to remember to practise social distancing and wear a mask.

The world is still fighting a pandemic. Being allowed to travel does not mean the virus has gone away.