Travel is recovering from the COVID era in a big way. Levels of travel are trending to soon exceed pre-COVID rates as pent-up demand reaches an all-time high. Travel levels may be returning to normal, but can we travel safely? The answer is a resounding “yes!”

Airlines, hotels, and businesses across the travel industry have had a long time to perfect their COVID safety practices. But even now that vaccines are widely available, there are still steps we can take to ensure safe and enjoyable travel experiences.

Consider the Whole Trip

Flying on a plane may seem like a riskier form of travel, but research suggests that the risk of contracting COVID during air travel is lower than in an office building. This doesn’t mean you should leave your sanitizer at home; just consider your entire route as part of our travel safety tips. Don’t let your guard down once you’re off the plane. Continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing, and wash or sanitize your hands regularly.

Here are a few other tips for how to travel safely during the pandemic.

Testing Before and After Travel

Testing before and after travel is one of CDC’s top travel safety tips to reduce the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus.

Get a viral test one to three days before your trip.

• If the test returns positive, then do not travel.
• Hold onto your results. You may be asked to show proof of a negative test at some point.

Upon your return, the CDC recommends getting a second viral test in the three to five days following your trip.

• Implementing a seven-day quarantine, even if your test returns negative, will minimize risk to those around you.

Before You Leave

Forest Travel views your safety and the safety of your employees as a top priority. Beyond pandemic procedures, avoid any general safety irregularities while traveling by reviewing this business travel safety checklist.

One way to lessen travel anxiety is to prepare. By implementing basic measures and travel safety tips, you’ll have confidence in knowing how to travel as safely as possible, whether on a plane or by car.

Pack a simple safety kit, including:

• Ample PPE
  • Cloth face masks, disposable face masks, or both
• Hand sanitizer
  • The TSA is currently allowing sanitizer up to 12oz in carry-on bags
• Disinfectant wipes
• Travel thermometer

Check your destination:

• What are the current COVID-19 infection rates?
• What, if any, are the COVID-related restrictions or mitigation measures in place at your destination?

Check in on yourself and your travel companions:

• Do not feel pressured by solidified plans
• If you or anyone you’re traveling with show symptoms of COVID-19, do not travel. It’s imperative to prioritize health and safety.

During Your Trip

The same COVID-19 safety strategies we implement to minimize daily risks apply during travel.

Because of the way air circulates and is filtered on airplanes, most experts suggest that viruses don’t spread easily on flights. Instead, one of the biggest risks posed during any form of travel is close contact with other passengers and members of the crew. This might be our most important travel safety tip: be aware of the people around you.

When determining how to travel safely on a plane, through an airport, or via public transportation, keep distance in mind. Be cognizant of your distance from other travelers and staff. Stay at least six feet apart, and always wear a face mask. This face mask should be snugly fitted and always cover both your mouth and nose. Limit contact with frequently touched surfaces. If you must touch surfaces such as handrails, elevator buttons, or security bins, then wash your hands soon afterward.

Consider Your Accommodations

The hospitality industry has innovated to adapt to some of the most effective travel safety tips.

• Many hotels are offering flexible cancellation policies, enhanced cleaning procedures, contactless payment, and social distancing measures.
• Before you book, check with your preferred accommodation to learn how they’re protecting staff and guests.

Consider private amenities. 

• Book an accommodation where you’re encouraged to spend time outside, should your destination call for less indoor exposure.
• Consider an accommodation with ample private amenities, such as a kitchen, private pool, private spa, or private outdoor setting. By prioritizing your comfort, you’ll ensure all the necessary amenities to safely enjoy your stay — regardless of destination uncertainties.

Being thoughtful of others and staying informed of the latest safety procedures can help you minimize the risk of infection and learn how to navigate the post-pandemic world as safely as possible.

Work with a Reliable Travel Agency

When it comes to corporate travel, plan with an agency that can deliver a luxury experience for you and your employees and help to keep everyone as safe as possible. Start with a travel consultation with Forest Travel.