Traveling this summer is back on the agenda for many, and finally, there are ways for families to explore new destinations abroad safely. Coronavirus lockdowns and restrictions are still being enforced across the globe but differ from place to place. However, for those countries and territories that Britons are permitted to travel to, there’s plenty that can be done to enjoy your stay while keeping safe. Follow these top tips and enjoy your summer holiday safe and sound!
Invest in a Comprehensive Testing Package
In order to gain re-entry to the UK, all travelers aged 10 or over must complete a passenger locator form, provide a negative result no sooner than 72 hours before travel, and then take a test on day 2 upon arrival (and day 8 for those from amber or red-listed countries). Tests must be purchased privately rather than sourced from the NHS. A great way to save money and ensure that all the tests you need are provided reliably is to buy a comprehensive travel test package.
Pack Plenty of PPE
Many countries still require masks to be worn inside and out when in public, with varying age-related exemptions. ‘Normal’ British medical exemptions rarely apply elsewhere in the world and see-through visors are also often not permitted. To ensure you’re best prepared and not charged a premium for swift mask buying when you arrive, pack plenty of masks in your luggage and make sure you always have at least one on you — and that your children do too.
Continue to Social Distance
Although technically social distancing is no longer enforced in the UK, this doesn’t mean that people want to be close to others. Social distancing is still a requirement in plenty of other places and it is always respectful to do so, sometimes culturally as well as for safety reasons.
Consider Hiring Private Transport
If you will be traveling significant distances on holiday, consider hiring a private car or taxi. Traveling on public transit will bring you and your family into close contact with a huge number and variety of people and there is simply no way of knowing their vaccination or infection status. Particularly when traveling with vulnerable or unvaccinated people, private transport will always be the safest option.
Think Twice about Catering Options
Buffets and self-serve food are often a popular food option for large hotels and holiday camps as it makes life easier for those preparing and serving food. However, this is one of the least safe options at present, as a buffet by its nature has multiple people picking, passing, and breathing around the food. Taking or cooking your own food is the safest possible option or ordering takeaways. However, if you would like to eat at a restaurant, either dine outside (where possible) or pick a table that is well-ventilated by a window.
Ask!
Don’t be afraid to ask your holiday or accommodation provider about what Covid-19 safety practices they have in place. Every business working in the tourist industry should have protocols in place to protect the safety of their guests as a priority – and should be willing to provide such policies before travel. Ask about cleaning schedules, guest turnaround times, laundry requirements, and social distancing policies. If possible, book activities ahead of time and set an itinerary for your days around anything that may involve close contact with other people so you can be best prepared.
Summer 2021 will certainly be different from those we’re used to but with a little extra protection, there’s no reason it can’t be enjoyed. Stay safe and holiday healthily!