Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic has struck the whole world. Almost all countries are fighting back the disease and its spread at multiple stages. Widespread vaccination rates promise normalcy in the near future. At an individual level, it is important to adhere to the standards and guidelines from governments, regulatory bodies and subject matter experts. 

International and domestic travel has resumed adhering to strict SOPs in many places. If you have gotten vaccinated, you are less likely to get and spread the virus. On the other hand, international travel can put you at the risk of getting other variants of Covid-19. Take a look at some tips for international air travel during and post the pandemic. 

International Air Travel Tips

• Check and be prepared with all the necessary Covid-19 protocols, travel and entry criteria in your homeland and destination. Keep in mind the rapid changes that may take effect. 
• Ensure social distancing, wear masks and use sanitizers frequently, even if you are fully vaccinated.
• Make sure you’re carrying government-approved photo identity proofs apart from passports, vaccination certificates (in print as well as softcopies), negative test results such as RT-PCR (if needed at destination), digital wallets, credit or debit cards and sufficient cash in all available denominations. 
• Pack and keep all the necessary documents along with a pair of clothes and daily essentials including ready-to-eat food and beverage. Keep them handy, as long waiting hours are expected at many airports. 
• For unvaccinated people, it is highly recommended to avoid international travel by air. If it is allowed and necessary, then you may have to take a test 72 hours prior to travel.
• Non-vaccinated people should be aware of the quarantine policies and necessities of their travel destination.
• You might see a lot of people in your destination not wearing masks properly or not wearing masks at all. Don’t follow the ‘trend’. Your safety comes first. Remember, even if you don’t get the virus, you stand a chance to be a carrier! So you’d better stick to the rules.
• Make it a habit to limit contact with frequently touched surfaces. Airport elevator buttons, escalator handrails, card swiping machines at cash counters, cab door handles etc are to be avoided. 
• If the destination is not familiar to you, avoid crowded places, especially air conditioned spaces. 
• It is ideal to check with the airlines on seating arrangements and try to get a seat near the window to avoid contact with passengers passing through the aisle. 
• Try depending on government-regulated, airport approved cab and other transportation services. 
• Say a big no to sales kiosks for some time. Keep sufficient food and beverage needed for the trip with you. 
• It is ideal to wear disposable gloves as and when needed. Face shields are also a good idea while traveling. 
• Refrain from activities such as eating or drinking on public transportation. The rule of thumb is never remove masks at any cost. 
• Carry essential medications with you and try to consume them in a secure environment. 

Conclusion

International travel is a necessity and high standards adhered to by airport authorities and travel companies are to be appreciated. It is our moral responsibility to engage in safe travel with these tips. In the immediate future, post-pandemic times, these tips can save you and others from the rapid spread of Covid-19. Moreover, practising high standards of hygiene and social responsibility is the way ahead to get back to the ‘real normal’ soon.