Traveling is stressful at the best of times, but traveling during a pandemic (especially with kids) is even worse. Take the stress out of the situation by following the best practices regarding masks and travel. Read the tips below to get a handle on what to pack, and how you and yours can stay safe at the airport and on the plane.
Preparation and planning
Pack your luggage with your pandemic needs in mind, and try to avoid unnecessary errands at your destination. Start with a travel first aid kit. They are available ready-made from retailers or compose your own using a checklist from the American Red Cross.
Bring along hand sanitizer (the TSA is allowing up to 12 ounces in a carry-on bag), individually packaged disinfecting wipes, disposable gloves and securely fitting masks. Masks get dirty, grimy and sweaty over time, so make sure you bring plenty for you and your family. kn95 mask is one reliable option you can choose. If you’re looking for a more stylish option, opt for black KN95 face masks for you and more colorful ones for the kids. You can find all of these styles at retailers like Green Supply. Store extra masks in separate, sealable storage bags for easy swapping on the road. Just remember to sanitize your hands before you switch to a new one.
Staying safe on the ground
Skip the taxi this time. It’s best to have a member of your household drop you off, but if that isn’t possible, at least skip the group rideshares. Before you step into the airport, don your mask. Face masks are mandatory throughout an airport’s transportation network in all secure areas. If you don’t wear your mask, you won’t be allowed entry. Airlines have different rules regarding the type of mask you can wear, but a KN95 mask without vents is always a good choice.
Store your list of prescription medication, your doctor’s contact info and emergency contacts in your carry-on and in your luggage, as well as extra masks, just in case you need them later. You’ll want to skip the pre-flight cocktail or snack too. While it may help calm your nerves, removing your mask isn’t the best idea. Choose chairs over table seating while you wait to limit touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
Staying safe in the air
Once in the air, you can relax a bit. The hardest part of maintaining distance and navigating crowds (and safety checks) is over. Bring the usual items: small snacks, a book or magazine, earbuds and downloaded music or podcasts to keep you entertained.
During the pandemic, you’ll need to go a step further. Masked travelers on a plane make it harder for the virus to infect others, so everyone over the age of two needs to wear one. (And in case you weren’t aware: face shields and goggles are an accessory to your mask, not a replacement.)
Before you sit down, take a second and wipe down exposed areas you’ll be touching during the flight. This includes the seat belt, seat tray, TV controls, airflow vents and window shade. If you need to use the lavatory, you’ll need to give it a quick disinfecting wipe-down, too.
Traveling during the pandemic
Packing your bags, zigzagging through the airport and hopping on a plane during a pandemic involves a more thoughtful approach to travel than ever before. For instance, if you are planning to travel Los Angeles, why carry those bags around with you when you can easily find luggage storage los angeles and easily explore the city without worrying about its safety. Carry as many masks as you can, in case your trip is unexpectedly extended, and don’t forget medication and contact information in case you get sick while you are away. With these tips in mind, you can fly the skies with a little less stress.
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