At Q, we pride ourselves on using our first-hand knowledge of hotels, cruise lines, expedition companies, ships, and destinations. It allows us to fine tune our clients’ experiences. That becomes even more important now cruise and land travel resumed during the pandemic. After all, right now, things are simply different.
The Q team has traveled on over twenty ocean and river cruises. We also experienced dozens of international land trips over the past six months. Here are seven ten (we added three more) COVID travel tips that we learned that are especially relevant for travel during the pandemic:
1) Pack a healthy dose of flexibility
Life has changed over the past two years – and it continues to do so. Changes to COVID protocols or government guidelines can pop up everywhere. Flight schedules or cruise itineraries may change. Destinations may be dropped, (sometimes at the very last minute) and onboard or on land experiences (restaurant opening hours, mask requirements) adjusted. Travelers who want to know exactly what their travel experience will be like, and those who get anxious when things change truly are better off staying home right now.
2) Lie low before you go
While the now-typical test on cruise embarkation is meant to filter out anyone with COVID, the incubation time of the virus means that the week before your vacation is not the time for a busy social schedule. Reduce your risk of getting infected a few days before you travel. Avoid crowded places (churches, restaurants, movie theatres, sports arenas, bars, family get-togethers etc.) And while it is tempting to explore restaurants in the embarkation port of your cruise, eat outdoors or in your own “bubble”.
3) Plan ahead for your tests
Many cruise lines and destinations require proof of a negative COVID test before your vacation can truly begin. Test requirements can be confusing. Rapid antigen or PCR test, in-person or proctored at-home test, number of hours before flight arrival or departure? In addition, you’ll also need a negative test before flying back to the USA. Give yourself enough time to understand all test requirements. With more travelers vying for test appointments, schedule your appointments well ahead of time. Be guided by your airline, cruise line, hotel or vacation operator in addition to official government sources of the countries you’ll visit.
4) Get the right mask - and plenty of them
Most experts agree: the right mask can protect you and your fellow travelers. You know that masks or face coverings are required on US domestic flights, airports, federal transportation hubs, and many hotels or other indoor venues. Overseas, your homemade mask might not suffice. Airlines or countries may require you to wear a specific type of mask: (K)N95 or FFP2, or at least a surgical mask. Some are hard to get, so plan ahead and always carry enough, just in case you tear a strap.
5) Test “at home” before you depart
We all hope it doesn’t happen, but should you test positive for COVID, it is better to find out at home before you leave, rather than on arrival in your destination or on your ship. That way, you can alter your plans, hopefully save some money, and “quarantine” at home. Like many of our clients, we will do an at home test shortly before departing on a trip for that extra level of confidence.
6) Print everything - and charge your phone
Be prepared: airline employees, immigration officers, hotel check-in staff and even restaurant hosts may ask you for COVID vaccination proof, test results, completed passenger locator forms, affidavits or whatever your destination may require. QR codes only work if your phone is charged. Good-old fashioned paper, sorted in the way you’ll need to present it, and maybe with key information highlighted, sometimes makes the process easier.
Extra 1: Bring extra medications and more
It's not just a COVID thing: when you travel, it's always possible that your original plans may be waylaid. Flight delays or cancellations, weather disruptions... We always suggest bringing sufficient critical medications to cover you in case your trip is longer than planned - asthma inhalers, blood pressure tablets or whatever you may need. And during COVID, when there is a chance that you may be quarantined, taking another two weeks of supplies is wise.
Extra 2: Buy insurance - and understand what it covers
You should always consider purchasing travel insurance when planning a vacation. (Your credit card, home or health insurance only go so far!) In a pandemic, you have even more reasons to do so. Travel insurance doesn't cover your worries to get ill. But you may be covered if a physician tells you that you cannot travel for medical reasons, for example, in case you are diagnosed with COVID. Your insurance may also help offset certain costs for extra accommodation or travel expenses. Check with your insurance provider for specifics.
Extra 3: Shop for (different) souvenirs
Masks and at home tests can be hard to get or be expensive in the US. If you see some priced lower in a pharmacy in Europe or your destination, consider buying some.
7) Be nice
All of this is new to everyone, and things change rapidly. While that can be frustrating to you, many of the people you encounter have to deal with these changes too – often with fewer colleagues and less information than ideal. Be nice and courteous. It will improve the day of the people you encounter, and yours.
Bonus: All of it is totally worth it!
Yes, travel is more uncertain (not to mention a lot more work) right now and things aren’t quite like they were. But once you’re on the road after months, or even years, at home, enjoying the sights, sounds and flavors of travel again can be magnificent! You may have the privilege of enjoying restaurants, museums and cruise ships with far fewer travelers than normal, for a truly unique – and only “now” – experience.
Just call your favorite Q travel advisor to help you on your way.
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