Make Flying Easier During COVID

Not many experiences compare with the thrill of hitting the open skies for a long-awaited vacation. However, even the biggest lover of flying may feel at unease amid today’s global COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, just a few steps and the right mindset can help to put your mind at ease as we navigate the pandemic, according to travel expert Brian Ferdinand in a recently published article.

First Steps

Traveling during the current pandemic doesn’t have to seem scary if you know what you’re doing, according to Ferdinand, the managing partner of SoBeNY. For starters, it is paramount that you dress appropriately yet comfortably.

For instance, be sure to wear comfortable pants and shoes that can easily be removed as needed. Also, wear jackets that have large pockets, as this will allow you to easily take out and put back your passport, wallet, and phone while you’re completing your security check. Big pockets will help to prevent you from losing these important items, according to Ferdinand.

Next Steps

As you interact with TSA personnel, feel free to wear a disposable or cloth mask. You are permitted to wear a mask even while you’re undergoing your security screening. Still, note that an officer with the TSA might ask you to adjust your mask so that he or she can visually confirm your identity as you get your documents checked.

Also, don’t touch your mouth, nose, or eyes during the screening process if you can help it, as this will reduce your chances of contracting the coronavirus. Likewise, cover your sneezes and coughs to decrease your chances of spreading the virus.

Along the same lines, be sure to wash your hands as often as possible. This is particularly essential after you’ve gone to the restroom; after you’ve blown your nose, coughed, or sneezed; and after you’ve eaten. Also, when washing your hands, make sure that you use water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds.

If you don’t have access to water and soap, you can use a sanitizer for your hands, but make sure that the sanitizer is 60% alcohol or more. Be sure to cover your hands fully with the sanitizer, and rub them together until you no longer fee moisture on your hands.

A little caution, discipline, and forethought can go a long way in helping you to protect both yourself and others during your next flight, according to Brian Ferdinand.