The year 2020 has been tough for all of us. As governments across the world put in place travel restrictions to stop the coronavirus pandemic, our lives turned into a kind of prison. We could no longer visit our families in other states or countries. Interaction with our best friends was restricted to virtual, which can never replace face-to-face meet ups.
Even things that we never thought would be affected, like sport, has seen a drastic change in how it is to be perceived going forward through this pandemic. No fans allowed at grounds or indoor venues, players and staff being required to wear cloth face masks, like those from String King (https://stringking.com/ppe/face-masks/cloth-face-mask/) and new rules when it comes to celebrating have been introduced to prevent the spread of this awful virus. No one ever expected to see sport in this way, and it only adds to the things that have seen a disruption through this unprecedented time.
As we go into 2021, the virus is yet to be contained and some restrictions are still in force. Fatigue is setting in even as we take great care not to contract or spread the virus. Many people are wondering if there is a way to travel safely in 2021. I guess for now it is unclear when travel will resume to some normality, but there are things we can do in the meantime, such as staycations. If you’re really missing your vacations, you might want to read this blog post on what to do when you can’t travel. It will be sure to give you some handy tips.
In this article, I will give some safe travel tips that will serve us well in 2021 and beyond. Let’s get going.
Use Private Means of Transport, if Possible
Health experts have advised that there will still be traces of the virus for some time into the future, regardless of whether a vaccine is available or not. This means that chances of contracting the virus will be there, albeit low. That notwithstanding, we cannot afford to take chances with our lives. One risky way of getting the virus is travelling in public means such as high capacity buses and trains.
To minimize the likelihood of catching the virus, it might be wise to consider using private means to move around. A family car can be essential for travelling within and across states. The cost of gas might skyrocket but it is nothing close to the value of good health. Again, the opportunity to use a car is more welcome than the continued sheltering in place.
Avoid Virus Hotspots
Different states and countries have posted varying degrees of success in combating the virus. Some have managed to combat the disease to just a few cases out of their entire population. Other jurisdictions are still under heavy virus attack with increasing new cases and fatalities.
To travel safely in 2021, we might need to look up the spread of the disease in different travel destinations. This will enable us to gauge the levels of risk in our preferred vacation destination. Travel where the virus seems to have been contained. Luckily, there are so many places we might choose to travel without compromising our health.
Adhere to Public Health Protocols
We are all aware of what it takes to control the spread of coronavirus. The public health pronouncements have been loud and clear for all of us. As you plan to travel in 2021, remember the directives and you will increase your chances of returning home with your health intact.
As compliance fatigue sets in, there are places where the protocols are hardly observed. To be on the safe side, don’t join them. It might look awkward but keep your face mask on especially when in public and crowded places. Maintain physical distance to minimize the chances of catching viral droplets.
Pack the Essentials
Coronavirus has not only changed how we travel but also how we prepare for travel. Before 2020, face masks were unheard of, at least in public interaction. The alcohol hand rub was not really an essential item to pack along. The personal protective equipment was only restricted to the industrial workers and the medical professionals. And then things changed suddenly. The face mask has now become a basic necessity in our day to day lives and it is almost impossible to get out of the house without having one in our bag or car. There are different types of face masks available in the market now: cloth, surgical, N95 and 3M 9330 masks that provide effective respiratory protection. These masks should be available in most supermarkets and drugstores. Alternatively, if you’re looking to buy 9320 masks online, you might want to check out e-stores, like Jackson Handling, that are well stocked and offer timely delivery of these life-saving products.
As we prepare to travel in 2021 and beyond, it is advisable to pack up the safety gear. Pack enough face masks for the entire family, stock up an effective hand sanitizer and soap. Remember to choose masks that have good fabric and ensure better protection from any kind of virus and bacteria. That being said, you could look for sustainable, washable PPE masks (that could also provide excellent breathability) from websites like www.bmtvirusguard.com. Additionally, sustainable masks could reduce landfill waste associated with single-use disposable masks. Caring for the environment is the need of hour! You don’t know how things will unfold ahead. So, better be safe than sorry.
Book Early
Placing early reservations is a hackneyed travel tip but it strikes differently in the times we are living in. As more people seek to travel, popular destinations will receive an avalanche of bookings forcing some of them to shut shop to more holidaymakers. Booking early has never been so important. we will not only secure a slot before the shutdown, we might also secure some early bird discounts.
Carry Your Prescriptions
The virus has made us forget our other infirmities. We must carry drugs wherever we go to ensure that our health condition is kept in check. Consult your doctor to get essential health tips. Keep an emergency contact just in case, god forbid, something unwelcome happens.