A post-pandemic travel kit is a necessity in these changing times. Over the last few months, the world of travel has undergone many upheavals, as have we all. But as life goes on and a sense of normality once again returns to our lives, it is time to reflect on how to travel safely in this post-pandemic world.

Some of these tips may seem obvious, some are less so, but we hope that this handy list of post-pandemic travel safety tips 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

    Wear a mask (and take more than you think you need)

    Wearing a mask is a must to prevent the spread of pathogens. Whatever your personal stance on wearing masks, it’s a good idea to wear one when traveling 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 vacation to avoid flying

    Are we there yet?

    Book a domestic vacation to avoid flying

    Booking a domestic vacation is a great way to avoid crowded flights for your trip. If the idea of a prepping for an overseas trip seems more trouble than it’s worth, then look closer to home and enjoy the beauty found throughout the UK. There’s a lifetime’s worth of incredible experiences waiting to be discovered no more than a few hours' drive from your home.

    From beautiful beaches to scenic mountains and national parks – It's time to look again at what France has to offer.

  • You may need more than a passport to pass immigration

    Health certificates are the ‘new normal’ for many countries

    You may need more than a passport to pass immigration

    Health certificates are a necessity for many travelers during the pandemic. Many destinations around the world require a " Fit to Fly " medical certificate.

    So plan ahead. The best source of information regarding flying regulations is the relevant government immigration website – don’t rely on hearsay or travel blogs.

    Check out the https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/ website before traveling abroad.

  • Expect longer delays at immigration

    It’s for your own good

    Expect longer delays at immigration

    Immigration requirements may lead to long delays and queues when you travel. As governments around the world try to make sense of this new reality, we should expect some delays when traveling 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 transportation until you have your bags in hand.

  • Check your insurance carefully

    For your own peace of mind

    Check your insurance carefully

    Insurance is vital in the post-pandemic travel world. 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 rather than cities

    Head for the hills or the beach

    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 alternate to a hotel stay, consider booking a vacation rental or even getting back to basics on a camping vacation.

  • Wipe down all luggage after every journey

    Especially handles and wheels!

    Wipe down all luggage after every journey

    Thoroughly cleaning your luggage is an important step in keeping yourself and your family safe after traveling. Once your suitcase zippers off on the conveyor belt at checkin, 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

    Wash your hands!

    Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread o disease. 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 a bargain

    Many hotels are offering huge discounts to tempt people back

    Be flexible and grab a bargain

    Bargain hunting and finding cheap travel is much easier with so many people staying home. If you're looking for a well-deserved dose of soft sand and palm trees swaying in the breeze, be open-minded and consider several destinations, as there are some good deals to be had 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

    Avoid unnecessary crowds

    Crowds are a big concern for the spread of COVID-19. 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 the lunchtime rush, when the restaurants will be most busy.

    In the city, try as much as much as possible to avoid using public transportation at peak times.

  • And don’t forget your hand sanitizer

    Alcohol gels and sprays should be always at the ready

    And don’t forget your hand sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is a must for your post-pandemic travel kit. After opening door handles or handling cash, it makes sense to clean your hands with hand sanitizer (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.