A look at what travel is like during the time of COVID-19 and what you can do to stay safe
The COVID-19 pandemic has gripped the United States and it looks like things aren’t getting better anytime soon. If you must travel, there are ways to do it safely.
Let’s take a look at what travel is like during the time of COVID-19 and what you can do to stay safe.
High-risk groups
If you fall into one of the high-risk groups, – older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like Heart disease, diabetes or lung disease – it’s not a good idea to travel.
Being in an enclosed space with other people is an excellent way to get sick. For high-risk populations, this can lead to complications that require hospitalization.
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Low-Risk groups
For low-risk groups, no reason should stop you from travelling and you’ll get to take advantage of extremely cheap airfares.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re travelling during a pandemic. While you may not be at risk yourself, two things may happen.
One, you might transmit the virus to other people. Two, if you get hurt for any other reason than COVID-19, you might experience much longer wait times at hospitals.
Your destination
Where you go is up to you, but common sense dictates that you avoid places with serious outbreaks or are shut down (like Italy).
For other places, make sure you do some research into their healthcare system, hospital, and clinic situation. Make sure that if you do get hurt or sick, there’s a place you can go for medical care.
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You might not get COVID-19, but food poisoning is a possibility.
Backup plan
Have a backup plan for the worst-case scenario. Scoping out the hospitals is a good start, but also lookup alternative housing or transport if you’re unable to come home.
No one knows what will happen in the future, but in case of a future travel ban, you want to be prepared.
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Have a neighbour or friend on speed dial
If you can’t come home and you have a pet, what’s going to happen to it? Who will watch your house? Take in your mail? Whatever you have going on at home while you’re away, make sure there is someone around to relay messages to.
Have a neighbour check on your property or see if your dog sitter can hold onto your dog for a bit longer.
Keep your job in the loop
Many firms allow their staff to work remotely. So you are in luck if this is your case.
However, if your company hasn’t implemented remote working procedures, talk to your boss about possibly working from home if you get stuck outside the United States.
Travel during the time of COVID-19 doesn’t have to be stressful if you take the necessary personal precautions and have backup plans in place.
So enjoy your trip and travel smart!
