The past few months have been unusual, to say the least. Every aspect of our lives has been affected by the pandemic, particularly the way we move around. It’s difficult to imagine when we will have a sense of normalcy again or be able to travel as freely as we used to. It will take some time and adjustment but don’t fret, better travel days are ahead of us.

It is very likely that this is the first and possibly only global crisis that some of us will experience in our lifetime. For many travellers, there is also a reasonable amount of uncertainty regarding the security and timing of booking trips. Many are unsure when they should start booking again or what will become of the trips they have already booked long in advance. Some are even still stranded abroad awaiting repatriation while others are simply waiting it out at a personal expense.

Despite our current situation, I encourage you to remember that life will not always be like this. The booking process will likely look a bit differently than you remember before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and it will take some adjusting.

You will have the wonderful opportunity to travel again after lockdown

When this is over–and it will be over–you will once again be able to travel again. Now more than ever, it is important that you stay up to date with the latest travel advice. Life, however, will require a certain amount of flexibility from you as countries navigate post-COVID-19 travel restrictions. For those who have read some of my other posts, you’ll know that for me, flexibility is already a natural element of the travel experience.

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Try not to get too hung up on countries that will not be ready to open their borders right away. We are, after all, facing a pandemic and each country will be looking after its best interest and considering ways of preventing a second wave of infections.

For your post-Coronavirus trips, pack face masks

Some airlines have made the donning of face masks mandatory; however, word on the street is that it is not being enforced very strongly. However, to be safe–health and new guidance wise–pack your travel masks in your purse, carry-on and checked bag so that you’re never caught without one if approached.

I still don’t feel like it’s the right time to start planning my long-haul from the UK back to The Bahamas to visit family. Not just yet. When I do, I will travel with face masks, just in case. I realise that there is plenty of debate on the efficacy of face masks but hey, better safe than sorry right? Comment with your thoughts on face masks below!

How to handle a face mask properly

Remember to wash your hands before you handle your face mask and after you have used it. Place one loop over an ear, making sure it’s secure before placing the other loop over your next ear to cover your nose and mouth.

It is recommended that face masks fit well (no gaps, drooping or holes), are not worn under the chin and not handled again until after use. Once you are through with the mask, remove it by its ear loops, one at a time and avoid touching the rest of the mask. Dispose of it immediately if it’s a single use mask or wash it immediately if it’s a reusable mask and wash your hands.

It’s good to remember that wearing a face mask will not make you immune to illness–it’s just a precautionary measure. If you are unwell and exhibiting symptoms, you should not be travelling. In any event, we are still advised to continue to follow the previous COVID-19 guidelines, for example, social distancing, sneezing and coughing away from people and downwards into your inner elbow and practicing good hygiene like regular hand washing.

If you have disposable, single use masks, pack enough for the duration of your trip plus a few spares in the event one gets dirty or damaged. Best practice is to dispose of these masks after each use. If you have reusable masks, pack at least two so that you can wash one after use and always have a clean spare.

How to wash your reusable face mask

Your ability to wash your face mask will greatly depend on your accommodation. If you have access to a washing machine and tumble dryer, that is ideal as you can easily wash the mask(s) with your regular laundry on a hot setting and tumble dry as usual.

If washing by hand, see if you can get your hands on an antibacterial soap or a disinfectant (we Bahamians swear by Dettol) once you have reached your destination. If not, wash your mask with reasonably hot soapy water (without scalding yourself!) and tumble dry, pop it on the radiator or lay flat to dry in direct sunlight. Whether by machine or hand, just make sure your mask is completely dry before the next use.

Travel insurance is essential for your post-Coronavirus trips

I can hear some of you scoffing already. I know, I know. This is the first time that I’ve recommended travel insurance on this site. Yes, there are some people that swear by travel insurance but I have always been a bit dubious.

Maybe it’s because I don’t travel with valuables or I tend to be a last minute traveller but I have never purchased travel insurance before. However, it’s a new day! Travel will not be the same for a while and this travel girl will have to adjust accordingly.

With the level of uncertainty around bookings, it seems wise to spring on a little insurance. Be sure to do your research as there are some dodgy travel companies. Try to find a company where you will still receive coverage even if that company goes bankrupt to avoid what thousands of British holidaymakers experienced in the Thomas Cook fiasco last year.

Check out this ultimate guide to choosing the right travel insurance for flights particularly during the Coronavirus outbreak.

The best travel apps for booking your post-COVID-19 trips

When, and I do mean when we are able to immerse ourselves in the culture of our dreams, I am confident that I will still turn to my favourite travel apps to book my first trip after lockdown. I have been saving money with these apps for years and I can count on them for a smooth booking experience.

With restrictions slowly easing internationally, we will soon have a better picture of what will be possible for summer, autumn and winter travels. When the opportunity comes, I am relieved to know that I will have the best apps in the travel industry.

RentalCars.com

RentalCars.com allows me to search, compare and save on car hire deals from all the big name brands in the industry like Hertz, Thrifty, Dollar and Budget! The RentalCars.com app was my trusted companion on my North American roadtrip on a budget. Rentalcars.com does not disappoint!

Check out the best car rental prices I’ve ever seen with RentalCars.com

Your first trip after lockdown is going to be your best! The world has changed. Soon, you will be able to witness it firsthand and to be a part of the 2020 travel boom when all this is over. Remember, try not to be too disappointed at the changes to the travelling process and if the holiday destination of your dreams has not opened its borders yet. The new travel industry will require us to be more flexible than we’ve ever have been.

Also, trust the professionals for your next booking experience and stay informed on local and international travel news. I like to use Twitter for quick updates on current travel bans and countries which are easing restrictions.

For now, continue to stay safe and healthy for the day when you can blow that dust off your trusty carry-on or trendy Herschel backpack and hit the open road again.

See you out there!

B the Travelling MS xx