No-one is expecting travel in the post-COVID world to be like it once was. But making changes to our pre-flight routine can be difficult, especially if we don’t know what to expect.
Travel expert Sam Chui has laid out five simple tips that will make both domestic and international flying a whole lot less daunting, letting us focus on the good times ahead.
Plan your test in advance
Many airlines require passengers to show negative test results prior to departure. Different airlines have different policies regarding how up to date the results are. Read up on the policies of the airline you are flying with, and book in your COVID-19 test well in advance. Be mindful that results can take between a day and a week to be delivered, depending on how busy the labs are.
Double check entry requirements
You may have flown there a hundred times in the past, but border security and entry requirements have changed for many countries. Pay extra attention to visa requirements. Some countries that have previously welcomed Australians without the need for a visa may have changed their policies in order to keep better track of international visitors. These rules will continue to change over time, so keeping your finger on the pulse of border regulation is important if you don’t want to be turned away at customs.
It takes longer
Checking in will take longer than it has in the past, as staff now have to manually check your documentation, including negative COVID-19 test results. You’ll also be asked to fill in more paperwork, including a health declaration, so bring a pen.
Some airlines offer automatic COVID-19 insurance
When it comes to booking your next flight, keep in mind that some airlines are offering automatic COVID-19 insurance for passengers for up to 31 days, while others aren’t. While this insurance is COVID-19 specific, and won’t replace normal travel insurance, it may influence who passengers choose to fly with. Airlines including Air Canada, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates and Etihad are already offering this service.
Inflight hygiene
Sam Chui, established travel blogger and experienced flyer, advises passengers to wear soft face cloths that cover the nose and mouth, which are more comfortable than masks with straps during a long flight. He warns that different airlines have different rules regarding hygiene, with some requiring passengers to wear masks or face shields instead. Mr Chui also notes that international flights are far less crowded than during pre-COVID times, making for a more comfortable flying experience.
Where is the first destination you hope to travel to in a post-COVID world? How do you feel about the possibility of flying freely again?
If you enjoy our content, don’t keep it to yourself. Share our free eNews with your friends and encourage them to sign up.
Related articles:
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/travel/news/high-hopes-for-cruise-restart
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/travel/tours-and-trips/travelglo-to-offer-nz-australia-tours
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/travel/travel-qanda/top-10-coronavirus-questions
