How travel is going to change post the COVID-19?

Since most of us entered into lockdown in March , the world as we know it has changed drastically. After we emerge from the lockdown not everything will go back to the way it was - especially travel. Every aspect of travelling will need social distancing in it – from where you can travel to how you can sit on a plane. So how can we travel responsibly post the COVID-19 phase?

1. Start with travelling closer to home - Most countries would be coming out of lockdown at different points of time. They would also be having restrictions on letting in outsiders.  It is better to plan your first vacation within the country or somewhere closer to your country. Choose a good getaway within your country. You will have hands-on information about the situation in your own country rather than a foreign place.

2. Choose your accommodation with someone you trust - To maintain cleanliness, it is best to choose an accommodation with someone you trust or with a well-known brand. Do not opt for cheap hotels, which are not known for their cleanliness. Read reviews and research well about your hotels before booking them. Avoid overcrowded hostels where it would be difficult to maintain social distancing. The lesser you interact with people, the better; at least until we are fully unlocked from the grips of COVID-19.

3. Health certificate could be made mandatory - Most states and countries would also ask you to submit health certificates before you enter. This could become a norm until the Corona virus has been completely eradicated. It will always be best to have health certificates ready in hand when you first start travelling post COVID-19.

4. Buy an international travel insurance policy - Travel insurance policy will be of use now more than ever. If in the worst-case scenario you have to undergo any medical emergencies, having an international travel insurance will cover for the expenses. There are also higher chances of flights being cancelled or delayed. Travel insurance will cover those expenses too.

5. Avoid public transport - This might come as a blow to budget travellers, but avoiding public transports is the best precaution you can take right now. Overcrowded public transportation could be hotspots for virus infections. They could also be unsanitary. Even if you are opting for metros or buses, ensure you maintain proper social distancing norms.

6.  Opt for private transportation modes - Choose private vehicles like cars to get around your destination. You must know how to get an international driving license in India before you plan your trip in a private vehicle abroad. You can also opt for a trustable personal taxi service.

7. Plan road-trips - Road trips could be the best form of travel post COVID-19. Destinations to which we can drive-in will be the safest and affordable choice. You will have better control over the itinerary this way.

8. Staycations to ensure social distancing - Staycations are when you stay at a place nearby your home rather than travelling abroad. You can plan on a resort getaway or plan on a leisure activity time with your family at a place. This will reduce the number of people you meet. It will also be less expensive and more sustainable.

9. Travel maintaining social distancing and by wearing a mask - It is always best to ensure we follow the practice of maintaining social distancing and of wearing a mask even after we come out of lockdown. Ease on restrictions doesn’t necessarily mean that the virus would also be easy on us. Take the necessary precautions while you travel.

10. Last but not least, maintain hygiene and wash your hands often - COVID-19 has instilled in us a very good hygiene practice – washing your hands often and maintaining proper hygiene. It is best to keep following this practice even after corona virus has been eradicated.


P.S.: The author of this article is Arya T.N.