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Is holiday travel feasible during the coronavirus disease 2021 (COVID-19) pandemic?

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Are you considering travelling any time soon? Under the circumstances, this may seem like a less prudent decision. But if you must, there are several precautions you should take to protect yourself and others. Also, keep your expectations realistic about the "new normal" with restrictions and changes in travel guidelines in general. With that in mind, here is a list of things to keep in mind on your next holiday.

Touchless Travel

The biggest and perhaps the most visible change is a shift to contactless travel.  This could be at the concierge desks, hotel check-in counters, airports, and more. Most airports and hotels have now adopted strict hygiene protocols; nonetheless, there are still several vulnerable humans to human contact spots that can't be avoided. Exchange of travel documents like passports and contacting security devices during check-in still pose a risk for travellers and staff alike. To mitigate this, travellers should have their guard up being conscious of their surroundings. Take necessary precautions like washing hands regularly (especially after coming in contact with someone else). Additionally, carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser if the option to wash hands is not there (more of this a bit later).

Move to Digital Options

Many travel companies have moved to digitally transforming their business. This is in line with the "new normal" to adapt to changing customer behaviour and building trust. An example could be in the form of digital identity solutions like DigiLocker, which is a universally accepted proof of identification. Another option for travellers is to avoid using physical cash and make use of digital payment apps like GooglePay. This will minimise contact to a large extent.

Testing Before and After

Getting tested before and after your journey can reduce the risks of spreading Covid-19. If you plan your trip next week, it's best to get yourself tested at least three days before the date of your journey. If you didn't follow the above advice and are still awaiting your test results, postpone your travel until you get a confirmation. Like your passport, always keep your test results at-hand. Different states and countries have specific travel restrictions to outsiders. Not carrying a copy of your latest Covid-19 test results could result in you having to quarantine for up to 15 days.

Know Local Restrictions

Once you arrive at your destination, before venturing out, check for any restrictions or recommendations for travellers. Some cities like New Delhi have strict guidelines about wearing masks. Not adhering to this can lead to a fine of 2,000INR or even jail time. Other countries like Nepal have a mandatory quarantine period of 15 days for new travellers. Knowing the local restrictions can save you considerable hassles down the road, after all, you are on holiday, and it's supposed to be fun. To know about the latest restriction to your travel destination, check the local government website. Keep in mind, these restrictions can change quickly, so it's best to keep yourself updated regularly.

Pack Your Essentials

Unlike during pre-Covid times where a passport was all you needed to travel, today you will need to pack in a few more essentials. First and foremost, make sure you carry a healthy supply of face-masks. You never know when and where you might run out. Another essential item is a decent supply of alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Keep two bottles - a small one you can take out easily during your journey and a big one that can resupply the smaller bottle. Additionally, keep a strip of paracetamol tablets just in case.

Heightened Risks of Travel

Although the Covid-19 virus can impact anyone, there are heightened risks associated with people with pre-medical conditions or who are above the age of 60. A WHO report showed the mortality rates for individuals between the age groups of 10-40 was only .2%. However, when it came to senior citizens, this number was a lot higher. People who fall under this risk category should avoid travel at all costs. It's not worth your life. However, if you still feel the need to travel, consult your doctor and check your travel insurance plan  to make sure you are fully covered in case of a health emergency.

Disclaimer:  The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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