What to Know When Preparing to Travel During COVID

What to Know When Preparing to Travel During COVID

Traveling now looks very different than what it looked like traveling pre-COVID. But what has changed and how should you prepare? We have made a list of everything to know when preparing to travel during COVID. Please reach out to us at info@travelsavvi.com if you have more questions!

Packing for Travel During COVID

What you are allowed to carry-on a plane has changed slightly. Normally, you are only allowed liquids in a 3.4 oz case. Now you are able to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag. Every other liquid, gel, and aerosol is still limited to 3.4 ounces. Make sure to check these policies before heading to the airport. Click here for more information.

In the Airport

Life at the airport while waiting for your flight or arriving: 

• Masks are required throughout every airport unless you are drinking or eating. 
• Security Checkpoints have implemented social distancing, reduced physical contact, touchless technology, and cleaning and disinfecting. Click here for the full details of what it will be like going through security.
• When possible, TSA is opening more checkpoint lanes to reduce time spent in line.
• Look for airport lounges. You can pay to enter, and you don’t have to be a member. From our experience, airport lounges do not have many people inside right now, which equals a great opportunity for social distancing in comfort.
• Dining options are very limited. Make sure to pack snacks when traveling. 
• Social distance as much as possible at the airport. Leave space between people on trains, while sitting waiting for your flight, and in the bathrooms.

Flying During Covid

Each airline has its own rules and improved cleaning protocols relating to travel during COVID. These policies are also changing almost as quickly as they are put into place. 

Currently: 

• Some airlines are blocking middle seats and limiting first class and economy comfort passenger seats. 
• Delta Airlines is loading from the back to the front of the plane. They are having passengers deplane row by row instead of standing and gathering in the aisles. 
• Aircrafts ventilated with fresh, outside air that is recirculated through high-grade HEPA filters to help reduce the growth of bacteria. 
• Some flight attendants are cleaning the bathrooms with wipes at least three times during flights.

One thing is for sure, make sure to wear your mask at all times when on the airplane, unless you are eating or drinking. Before heading to the airport, check your airline’s COVID policies directly on their website so you are prepared. 

Pro Tip: Bring snacks because many airlines have reduced what food and drink options they are serving on flights.

Destination Guidelines

Each travel destination has their own COVID travel guidelines. Like everything with COVID, these guidelines change daily. As travel agents, we are up-to-date on everything you need to know to travel to a certain destination. For example, right now Jamaica is requiring negative RT-PCR COVID tests less than 10 days from travel along with a travel authorization to enter. Mexico right now is not requiring COVID tests for entry. Work with a travel agent to make sure you know the exact requirements for entry into your travel destination.

Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance is created equal. Many actually exclude covering certain situations, like a pandemic. Make sure you evaluate what your needs are and pick an insurance plan that covers what you are looking for. Keep an eye out for policies that include “Cancel for Any Reason” for peace of mind when traveling during COVID. 

Transfers for Travel During COVID

All transfer companies provide a private transfer option. When booking your transfer to and from the airport and your resort, make sure to have your travel agent book you a private transfer for comfort and the easiest way to social distance.

What questions do you have about the changes that have been made to travel during COVID?