Airline Travel During a Global Pandemic

 

It goes without saying that travelling in general is challenging since the pandemic started in 2019. From travel bans to insanely expensive fees, travel is now frustrating in so many ways.

Having travelled a few months ago, I had a firsthand experience to how it is like. Experiences are always different for everybody, but here are a few things to consider or keep in mind before heading on to your next flight.

Get vaccinated.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to protect yourself before even going out of your house. If you do not like the idea of vaccination for other people's safety, do it for your own - this is a good kind of selfish. When you travel, you can only do so much to protect yourself. Even though passengers tested negative before the flight and the air inside the plane is purified, the risk is also at your destination.

Health insurance might be needed.

This was not required by the Canadian government for tourists, but when I travelled, the airlines back in the Philippines and the Philippine immigration officer asked me if I had one. It's a good thing I did have one. It might have been stressful for me if I didn't. So, before you travel, it might help if you check if the airlines, the destination or immigration office requires it.

Organise your documents.

In my case, I found that organising my documents by importance and labelling them on the side made it easier every time it had to be checked at the airport. This will really lift off a lot of airport stress.

Be earlier than usual.

All the documents checking, immigration, queues add up so much time especially if you have to transit. This differs by airport so check your airline's recommendation on how early you should be. Also make sure you have enough transit time in between flights.

Book direct.

A few years ago, I booked a flight via a travel agency website because it was cheaper. Unfortunately, I had to change the flight. I called the airlines to have it changed and they said they cannot do anything directly from their end because the flight was not booked direct. I was also advised that for flights that I may have to change or flights during critical dates, it is better to book direct if I wanted direct help from the airlines. I was able to change that flight, but the fees were very expensive. I had to pay all the airline charges plus the travel agency charges.

During these uncertain times, it might be better to book direct especially now that most airlines offer refund and/or free rebooking. Flight changes and cancellations will be easier to manage if you book direct.

Sanitise.

Again, these are quite critical times and it is important to sanitise before touching your face. In the airplane, I made sure to sanitise the tray table and the window because I knew that's where I will have the most contact. I also carried my alcohol spray with me all the time and placed it in the outermost portion of my backpack, the one that is most easily accessible. Most importantly, I disinfected all my luggage after picking them up from the carousel and my shoes before leaving the airport.

Travel these days is a lot more complex, but it is still possible. Just make sure you have your complete documents and you have done your research beforehand. 

And even without a pandemic, always travel responsibly and travel safely.