If you were going on business trips during the pandemic, you probably found several ways how to keep yourself safe. Being vaccinated against Covid-19 helps, but even if you did that, you could still feel anxious while traveling. It is probably not possible to eliminate every risk, but there are ways to reduce it, for example by reading carefully about your destination’s restrictions. Whether you are flying, driving, taking a train or a ferry, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind about being smart and safe on your business trips.
Check airline and destination requirements
There may be a need to show your vaccination documents or proof of a negative Covid-19 test in order to travel. These tests often need to be done within the past 72 or 24 hours. Plan accordingly to make arrangements for them to arrive on time when needed. It would be the best for you to check your destination and your travel method to learn more about what is required on the official, governmental websites.
Monitor the situation with real-time updates and information
The world’s not the same at the moment. This is why it’s increasingly important for you to have immediate access to accurate, up-to-date information that allows you to closely monitor changing situations across the world.
Try out direct routes
Direct routes help you to avoid layovers. If you stay at a serviced apartment or a hotel over several nights, look for one near your destination so you can walk or ride a bike to get around. Keep it as simple as possible. You may consider flying to the smaller airport that doesn’t see as much travel and driving the rest of the way. A good tip it is to reserve your car if you need it, but to do it before you arrive. Another way of simplifying your travel is through going contactless. Hotel or serviced apartments services, airline e-tickets, and contactless payment methods help you to avoid the crowds and frequently touched spaces.
Give yourself some extra time
It is always a good idea to give yourself an additional period of time while traveling, especially when there might be additional delays, limitations, testing requirements or even cancelled flights. It will positively influence your mood and safety, and it’s very smart. You can keep yourself busy with some Kindle or newspapers/magazines if it turns out you need to wait a bit somewhere.
Pack in a smart way
Some airports have limited services and hours. Some airlines limit their food and drinks offer. If you have special dietary requirements, it is good to plan as there may not be any options that meet your needs. In addition, take extra masks, hand sanitizers and clothes with you, in case of exposure. Be aware – some airlines are banning cloth masks. Be sure you checked your airline and destination requirements to help you plan everything accordingly.
If your journey lasts over several days, check the accommodation safety protocols and cleaning policies. Covid-19 is transmitted through respiratory droplets, so you may want to bring extra wipes to go over frequently touched surfaces.
Have a “Plan B”
What if you catch Covid-19 while traveling? You need to be ready for that. Have a plan for someone to help you at home while you are away, in case you have any delays, get ill or have to go through a quarantine. Prepare yourself to have some extra cash, just in case. Also, read your travel insurance carefully – some of them exclude any coverage for incidents cause by Covid-19.
Be alert for increased theft and fraud
Economy becomes more depressed, and people are either losing jobs or working reduced hours, so they are also looking for new avenues to make money. Business travellers are likely to be the biggest targets for those people as they usually carry high-value items like laptops or smartphones.
Remember:
As you can see, the current pandemic does not mean that you cannot travel at all. Taking a few precautions is all you have to do to leave safely on your next trip.
If you are looking for a place to stay during your next business trip, make sure to check out the offers on www.visionapartments.com. We offer completely contactless travel options with a secure code access system. It allows our clients to automatically check-in, without having to wait in a crowded queue, and ensures a high level of privacy.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!