The world of travel has been through a lifetime’s worth of changes in the past few months (haven’t we all), but as life goes on and a glimmer of normalcy comes back into our lives, it’s worth thinking about travelling safely in a post-pandemic landscape.
Some of these tips are obvious, some less so, but we hope that this handy list will help to give you confidence and peace of mind on your next trip.
Wear a mask (and take more than you think you need)
Safety over style
Whatever your personal stance on wearing masks, it’s a good idea to wear one when travelling through all busy places, such as airports and train stations. With some countries now enforcing the wearing of masks as compulsory in certain places, you’ll want to take more masks than you think you’ll need – they’re easily lost, and you might even be able to help someone in need.
Book a domestic holiday to avoid flying
Are we there yet?
If the idea of prepping for an overseas trip seems more trouble than it’s worth, then look closer to home and enjoy the beauty found throughout the US. There’s a lifetime’s worth of incredible experiences waiting to be discovered no more than a few hours' drive from your home.
From the beautiful beaches to the scenic national parks, it's time to look again at what the US has to offer.
See also
- Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles
Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles
United States of America - 9 Best Art Museums and Galleries in San Diego
9 Best Art Museums and Galleries in San Diego
United States of America - 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Boston
10 Most Instagrammable Places in Boston
United States of America
Check your insurance carefully
For your own peace of mind
Even if you think you’re fully covered with top-tier insurance, it’s highly advisable to check again. If one of your family has a fever and is denied entry, what does that mean for the rest of you? In some cases, it may be sensible to buy specific COVID-related travel insurance.
It’s also worth paying close attention to international travel restrictions stipulated by certain countries. If you travel before restrictions are lifted, it may invalidate your insurance.
Head for the hills or the beach
Go for nature destinations rather than city ones
A nature break makes more sense these days. After months cooped up in your house, surely the idea of clean mountain air, hidden beaches, and wide-open landscapes is the stuff of dreams. You can safely maintain social distancing from bustling crowds and enjoy time with just you and your loved ones.
As an alternative to a hotel stay, consider booking a holiday rental or even getting back to basics on a camping holiday.
Wipe down all luggage after every journey
Especially handles and wheels!
Once your suitcase zips off on the conveyor belt at check-in, who knows how many people will handle it before you pick it up at your destination. That’s why it’s sensible to clean it with a disinfectant wipe once you get to your hotel. Focus specifically on the handles and wheels – the real dirt traps!
Wash your hands
Cleanliness is next to godliness
This sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s worth making the point: wash your hands! Every time you get back to your room and especially before you eat, give them another wash. You don’t need us to explain how to do that, right?
Be flexible and grab the bargains
Many hotels are offering huge discounts to lure people back
If you’re longing for a well-deserved dose of soft sand and swaying palms, keep your options open and browse different destinations because there are some remarkable bargains to be had on accommodation these days. Many places around the world have the holy trinity of sun, sea, and sand in abundance so it pays to be flexible.
Avoid unnecessary crowds
Use your common sense
Even though the rules and regulations have relaxed, it’s still better to proceed with caution. If you’re on the beach, choose a secluded patch and try to hold off eating lunch until a little after lunchtime instead of bang on 12 noon, when the restaurants will be busiest. If you’re travelling through the city, don’t take public transport at rush hours.
You may need more than a passport to pass immigration
Health certificates are the ‘new normal’ for many countries
‘Fit to Fly’ health certificates are needed for many destinations around the world and you need to sort it out before you arrive at your destination. The best source of information regarding flying regulations would be the relevant government immigration website – don’t rely on hearsay or travel blogs.
For Americans travelling abroad, we recommend this website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travellers/travel-in-the-us.html
Expect longer delays at immigration
It’s for your own good
As governments around the world try to make sense of this new reality, we should expect some delays when travelling as people need to be properly checked to ensure everyone’s safety. This is important when transiting through countries or waiting to go through immigration – hold off booking any transport until you have your bags in hand.
…and Don’t forget the hand sanitiser
Alcohol gels and sprays should be always at the ready
After opening door handles or handling cash, it makes sense to clean your hands with hand sanitiser (if you can’t wash using hot water and soap) when you’re out and about.
If you’re taking a flight, remember to buy a travel size bottle as the 100 ml liquid rule is still in force.
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.
Start planning your trip
Where to stay in United States of America
Circus Circus Hotel, Casino & Theme Park
The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower
Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Luxor Hotel and Casino
Excalibur Hotel & Casino
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
Bellagio
31 Street Broadway Hotel
Paris Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Related stories
- Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles
Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles
United States of America - 9 Best Art Museums and Galleries in San Diego
9 Best Art Museums and Galleries in San Diego
United States of America - 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Boston
10 Most Instagrammable Places in Boston
United States of America - 10 Best Restaurants in Cocoa Beach
10 Best Restaurants in Cocoa Beach
United States of America - Venetian Pool
Venetian Pool
United States of America - 10 Ways to Save Money in Minneapolis
10 Ways to Save Money in Minneapolis
United States of America - 10 Best Things to Do in Port Aransas
10 Best Things to Do in Port Aransas
United States of America - 10 Great Restaurants in Buffalo
10 Great Restaurants in Buffalo
United States of America