4 Top Tips for Travelling during COVID-19
Thanks to a number of significant changes to the UK’s travel rules, it’s easier than it has been in a very long time to get away this Autumn and Winter.
Recent Updates:
4 October2021 –The need to complete a test before returning to the UK was no longer compulsory.
15 October 2021 - The UK Government simplified its traffic light travel system and replaced it with a red list vs the rest of the world list, find it here.
24 October 2021 - Travellers returning to England will no longer need to take a PCR test, instead an often much cheaper lateral flow test will be accepted, as long as it is supplied by a private provider recognised on the Gov.uk website. Bookings for the lateral flow tests are open from 22 October 2021 – just in time for most UK half-term breaks. Click here for more information.
Scotland has also pledged to publish its updated return policy by the end of October. Northern Ireland and Wales are yet to commit to any changes. Keep up to date with all travel news on the Gov.uk website.
Top 4 tips for travelling during COVID-19
Do your research!
Most people do some research before they book holiday, the nearest beach, the local temperature, or which beer will be on tap during all-inclusive stay, but be sure to add checking COVID-19 guidelines to your list too!
Don’t assume that every airline, hotel, or excursion operator is the same in terms of their COVID-19 rules or hygiene standards. If you’re booking a package holiday, check each provider’s independent site to see what their cleanliness standards are, and any requirements that you’ll need to follow. It’s also a good idea to check reviews to see if they stick to their own rules, and other traveller’s experiences.
On a recent trip we were told by cabin crew that the aircraft needed to be back out onto the runway within 20 mins – did they have time to fully clean the toilets, let alone the tray tables and seats? Probably not…
Check travel requirements
If you’re fully vaccinated or under 18, guidance is freely available and clear about you should do before you travel, and indeed what steps you need to take once you return. However, travel requirements are very different depending on your home country and your destination – and if you’re travelling with children the advice will depend on their age too. So, be sure to check the GOV.uk website for information.
Thankfully travel is much, much easier than it was just a few short weeks ago, however, it’s important to check the requirements of the country that you’re travelling to, before you book and again before you travel.
Did you know that if you’re travelling to Malta with children over 11, they will not be allowed into the country unless they are fully vaccinated? We did. Do you know why? We checked the requirements!
Keep it clean.
Simple, right? Wrong.
Honestly, are you still washing your hands as much as you were in March 2020?
People are naturally getting a little more complacent about hand hygiene and the wearing of PPE, when required. While you travel and while you’re away, wash your hands when possible (lots) and use antiviral/antibacterial products when you don’t have access to any soap and water.
You’ll need to take face coverings, enough for your flight – including time at the airport, and for while you’re away, and your return trip. So, pack plenty, and please dispose of your masks responsibly.
On a recent all-inclusive holiday, we made sure to fully sanitise our hands every time we arrived at the restaurant (brownie points to us!) but then we merrily touched more than 10 sets of serving tongs and spoons. Now, in theory, this is fine because everyone sanitised just like we did, surely? Nope! We sat and watched a number of people bypass the sanitiser completely, and virtually nobody sanitised their children’s hands – and we all know where they’ve been…
Make sure you’re insured.
Okay, okay, yes, we do have a special interest in this one - but it’s crucial that you have the right cover to suit your needs, and the needs of your travelling party.
- All Direct Travel policies have Essential COVID-19 cover as standard, and for a little extra, some policies offer Enhanced COVID-19 cover for additional peace of mind.
- Rest assured that all Direct Travel policies have in-built flexibility to move your policy start date, should you need to change the dates of your trip.
- Every policyholder has access to an Emergency Medical Assistance Team on hand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week should you need any medical help while you’re away.
Not to mention all the things that you’d expect from a trusted UK insurance broker:
- A range of products to suit your needs, and your budget
- Medical cover, lost luggage and of course theft cover should you need it
- Cover for a range of Activities and sport included, as standard
- Cruise, winter sport and golfing cover available too
You may wish to check out some of our other posts for guides, tips and other useful information, otherwise, if you are ready to look for some travel insurance, we at medical travel insurance can aid you in finding a quote that's right for you. Whatever you do, hopefully, this article has given you some great ideas for a fantastic, fun-filled beach vacation.
Please check our full terms and conditions for information on our policies, and what’s included in our COVID-19 cover. Flexible cover is for single trip policies, and travel dates must be within 18 months from the policy purchase date.
In need of assistance?
Our medical travel insurance team are ready to provide you with assistance regarding your quote. If you would prefer to talk to an advisor to receive a quote or have a query please contact our UK based customer service team. Find out details on our contact us page.
