We’ve been living with Covid for over a year now. Life as we know it has changed a lot, and many of us are wondering if we could sneak away for a holiday. Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about travelling abroad during Covid-19.
Testing and quarantining is important
Most countries require you to take a test and quarantine before entering. This is really important – you need to make sure that you aren’t bringing any new strains of the virus into another country, or infecting people that you see on the way. If you do decide to travel, make sure that you take at least two tests and quarantine when you arrive.
Be aware of travel restrictions
Travel restrictions could change at any minute, and your travel insurance may not cover them. For example, travellers from the UAE must now quarantine for two weeks in UK hotels at their own cost. If you travel during the pandemic, you should be prepared to face random quarantines and extra costs which you may not get refunded for, especially flight cancellation insurance.
Know the risks of you catching Covid
Covid does disproportionately affect the old and people with underlying conditions. However, people who are young and fit have still become gravely ill due to this virus. If you can’t afford to pay for potential hospitalisation abroad, make sure that you find a travel insurance provider who has Covid cover (there aren’t many of them, but you can use our schengen insurance tool to look for them). If you aren’t insured and can’t afford to pay out of pocket, then you shouldn’t be thinking about travelling.
Plan your destination wisely
Some countries are in a bad situation due to the Covid pandemic, so tourism is the last thing on their mind, while other countries are concerned about the loss of tourism as an income source. If you must travel, choose a country that is dealing with the pandemic well, and that wants to welcome tourists back.
Use PPE
It goes without saying that, if you travel, you should wear a mask at all times in public places and keep your hands sanitised.