Pandemic Travel Tips and Packing List

The world may not be back to travelling like the pre-pandemic days, but travel is still happening around the world. If you’re planning any sort of future vacation (local, international, or road tripping), you may want to add these essentials to your packing list and refer to the pandemic travel tips. You can also check out my other packing lists if you need some packing inspiration: What to pack for a week in Mexico, St. Maarten All-Inclusive Packing List, British Isles Cruise Packing List, 10 Tips to avoid over-packing, and Packing Tips for Any Trip. I hope this list of pandemic travel tips and packing list can help you get ready for your next trip!

As of March 30, here are a few additional things to know if you’re planning to travel:

• Many hotels and services are starting to implement “regular” cancellation policies. This means that you can’t use the pandemic as a “cancellation” reason. Be sure to check what the cancellation policies are for anything you book moving forward.⁣

• Road trips and cottage rentals will continue to be popular into the summer months (especially in Canada and the USA), so if you’re planning on renting a cottage or heading out on a road trip – book in advance (like ASAP!) with cancellation options.⁣

• Different countries require tests or immunization records for entry (sometimes even before getting on the plane, and within different time periods of arrival).⁣

• Cruises are continuing to book for future dates. But many (if not all) will require proof of vaccine for adults 18 years and older, and if you’re under this age you need to show a negative test before boarding the ship.⁣

Pandemic Travel Packing List

The following items should definitely be added to your pandemic packing list to help you stay safe. Some items may seem like overkill. but they all have their benefits depending on where you’re going and how you’re getting there.

• Masks/Face Coverings
  This might be a regular travel accessory moving forward, as many countries are requiring masks or face coverings while out on the street and in most establishments. So make sure you bring a few masks on your next trip. This will ensure you are able to wash your masks in between wears, or have multiple disposable masks available. If you’re flying, make sure at least one of your masks has 2-layers as I’ve read some airlines require this as a standard.
  
• Face Shield/Safety Glasses
  While in transit, you may want to wear a face shield or safety glasses/goggles to protect your eyes. I know it may sound extreme! However, if you’re on any sort of public transportation for an extended period of time it’s something to consider!
  
• Gloves
  If you’re worried about touching things other people have touched, disposable gloves might be an item you’d want to pack. You can wear these while doing your grocery shopping or other shopping, or if you’re out on public transit. And if you’re concerned about “waste” you can always purchase more durable rubber gloves that can be washed and re-used.
  
• Hand Sanitizer
  This has always been a travel essential for me, but especially so moving forward. Personally, I’m more of a hand washing and hand sanitizer person (rather than wearing gloves). I feel much better having alcohol spray and hand sanitizer on me even when I’m not travelling these days. These will definitely be part of my travel essentials moving forward.
  
• Anti-bacterial/Disinfectant Wipes
  Another item that I always carried while travelling is going to become a staple in my local and international travels. Anti-bacterial and disinfectant wipes can clean your hands, surfaces, items you’ve purchased, your phone, and camera! I personally like to use Isopropyl alcohol wipes for my phone and camera on a regular basis these days.
  
• Isopropyl Alcohol Spray
  A new item I’m adding to my packing list (and something I’ve started carrying around) is alcohol spray. Back when hand sanitizer was impossible to get, I had to purchase Isopropyl alcohol. I also bough a small travel spray bottle and now that thing goes everywhere with me. I’d say you probably don’t need to have alochol spray and hand sanitizer. But these days, I feel better having both.
  
• Travel Documents
  Some countries require you to provide proof of COVID-19 testing and medical insurance that covers COIVD. Other countries may require you to self isolate or quarantine upon arrival and you’ll need to provide proof of your destination. Print your documents, or save e-documents in an easily accessible folder on your phone.

Pandemic Travel Tips

If you decide to travel there are some additional ways you can keep yourself and others safe. This list goes beyond social distancing and avoiding large crowds (though, those are still important too!).

• Airport Security
  Before you get to airport security, empty all items in your pockets and put them in your carry-on luggage. This will not only help speed up the security process, but also limits your belongings touching (potentially) unsanitized bins.
  
• Purchase Insurance
  Many of the regular insurance plans don’t cover COVID-related medical or travel expenses. I’m not an insurance expert but I research in advance to select the plan that best fits my needs. And, I always say that if you can’t afford insurance, you can’t afford to travel. If something were to happen to you in another country, your medical bill could put you into debt. And coming from Canada where we have free health care, that’s not a risk I want to take. Given the uncertain times it’s something you should look into. Try to find someone (like a travel agent, or insurance broker) who can explain the different insurance plans available. Then, take the time to read the fine print!
  
• Rent a Car
  If possible, rent a car instead of taking public transportation or ride-shares. You can wipe it down with your disinfectant wipes and also limit contact with other people.
  
• Sanitize Frequently Used Items
  We are all constantly washing and sanitizing our hands, but what about our most frequently used items? Cell phones, cameras, computers, tablets, gaming devices, and headphones can be set down on unclean surfaces. Credit cards and debit cards may have touched an unsanitized machine as well, so keeping these clean is important too!
  
• Protect Your Clean Masks (and other stuff in your bag)
  Bring a resealable plastic bag or use a separate compartment in your bag to carry used face masks in-between washes. This will keep them from touching your clean face masks or other items in your luggage.
  
• Cleaning Protocols at Destination
  Before you book anything, research the cleaning protocols and safety measures in place at the destination. Some hotels have limited in-room amenities currently, others have changed their cleaning standards. These cleaning protocols may even change the experience at on-site dining establishments. For example, buffets may no longer be self-serve, food may be pre-wrapped, and there could be limited food services open.

Pandemic Travelling Summary

Should you travel during the pandemic? That’s a decision only you can make! While many countries are putting travel restrictions in place, many are still open for travel. Local travel and day trips are also a popular type of travel during the pandemic because they still allow you to distance from others. If you do plan a trip, I hope these suggestions can help you prepare and stay safe on your journey. If you have any pandemic travel tips or packing essentials not mentioned here, leave them in the comment section below!

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, nor am I saying that it is a safe time to travel. It is up to each individual to decide what is safe for them. Also, please take advice/follow guidelines from local medical and government officials during this time.