11 Things to Make You Feel Safer Traveling Now

After two long years of uncertainty, travel is beginning to rebound and people are eager to hop on a plane again. Many destinations that had been closed off are reopening to tourists, and families and couples are ready to plan their dream getaways. Research indicates that travelers are looking to “go big” in 2022 after being confined for two years due to the pandemic.

How to Feel Safer Traveling Now

Having taken several trips throughout the pandemic, we understand what traveling in this new normal feels like. It may not be as intimidating as it seems; armed with accurate information and necessary tools, you can enjoy your travels safely and efficiently. Therefore, before you head out on your dream trip, refer to this checklist designed to enhance your safety while traveling in 2022.

1. Purchase Travel Insurance with COVID Coverage

We never leave home without travel insurance. It protects against trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, stolen belongings, and lost luggage.

The essential tip for 2022 is to contact your insurance provider to confirm they cover COVID-related issues. We changed our insurance company in 2021 because our previous provider did not include COVID-19 coverage. As more companies are adapting to offer COVID coverage, it’s essential to verify before you travel. Some destinations may also mandate proof of such coverage.

2. Purchase Extra Travel Medical Evacuation Coverage

While our general travel medical policy includes evacuation benefits, the pandemic has shown that insurance is not always foolproof. Unexpected situations may hinder appropriate medical care during emergencies. Our solution is having a Medjet Medical Transport Membership, providing us with transfer options to a hospital of our choice back home, should we require hospitalization (including for COVID).

3. Travel Security and Crisis Response Coverage

In this unpredictable world, many travelers express concerns regarding safety and security. Even in the most stable countries, civil unrest can occur unexpectedly. We mitigate this risk with our MedjetHorizon® membership, which offers added travel safety through their crisis response services.

4. Check Travel Advisories

While we hope to never utilize our crisis response coverage, we minimize that risk by checking travel advisories before departing. Every country maintains travel advisory pages detailing COVID restrictions, civil unrest, and safety warnings.

• If you are in the US, check the US Department of State travel advisory page.
• Canadians can consult the Government of Canada’s travel advisory at CRA Travel Advisories by Country.
• The UK provides a comprehensive guide via Gov.UK.

5. Check Local Requirements and Restrictions

Although pandemic restrictions have been eased in many areas, knowing the current protocols for your destination is crucial. Checking any required documents, such as proof of vaccination or negative COVID tests, should be a priority before flying.

6. Register for Emergency Notifications

Given the rapid changes in today’s world, we register for emergency notifications before leaving home. Both Canadian and US governments offer such services to keep citizens informed during emergencies abroad.

• Canadians can register here.
• US citizens can register here.

7. Vaccines and Medication

Vaccines

In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, we determine other essential vaccines for our travel destination. Vaccination needs vary by country, so a consultation at a travel clinic is advisable at least six months prior to your trip.

Potential travel vaccinations include:

• COVID-19 plus booster
• Hepatitis A & B
• Tetanus
• Measles
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Influenza
• Rabies

Medications and First Aid

We ensure that we have all prescription medications on hand, keeping them in our carry-on rather than checked luggage. We recommend making photocopies of prescriptions for potential refilling needs during travel and carrying extra medication for delays.

Additionally, our first aid kit includes over-the-counter medications and essential supplies. Having these items provides peace of mind while traveling:

• For allergic reactions, we carry diphenhydramine.
• Rehydration tablets help during severe dehydration.
• Anti-nauseant tablets are essential for winding mountain drives.

8. Pack a Care Package

Germs can spread quickly in transportation hubs, so we maintain a small “germ eliminator” care package. Despite masks being less common now, we still wear them in crowded spaces. N95 masks provide excellent protection against airborne germs.

9. Check Safety Protocols at Your Hotel

Entering hotel rooms that others have recently occupied can be unsettling. Therefore, verifying hotels’ health and safety protocols is essential before booking. Hotels should disclose extra cleaning procedures and staff safety measures.

10. Keep Emergency Information on Hand

Travel may come with unexpected challenges, from lost credit cards to needing medical evacuations. It’s vital to organize emergency contacts and information beforehand.

Utilizing a thumb drive for storing essential data is advisable, along with keeping photocopies and images of your passport readily available. Knowing local emergency numbers before travel can also be pivotal.

11. Stay Up to Date on Travel Scams

Travel scams remain prevalent, and researching any recent scams specific to your destination is crucial. Being informed enables you to safeguard your finances against crafty thieves.

2022 promises to be a remarkable year for travel as the world reopens. While taking necessary precautions is important, we also anticipate experiencing the joys of travel once more. By following these tips, you can feel more secure while embarking on your travels.

This post is sponsored by Medjet, but the advice is our own. We are Medjet Members by choice. Learn more about Medjet memberships on their website.