Some Tips on Travelling in a Pandemic

It has been such a long time since I wrote anything and this is because I have been out of the Kingdom since May and only recently returned. Like most people working and living away from family during Covid, the urgency to go 'home' and see family has been pretty intense and I feel very fortunate that I was able to do this when so many others I know couldn't. Not only was it wonderful to see family and friends after such a long time, I was equally grateful to be able to avoid the heat and humidity of a Saudi summer. When I left it was around 45 degrees Celsius and become too humid for even a short walk and it only got less bearable from there on. Fast forward to almost September and you can feel the humidity beginning to ease off and I even have a little hope in my heart for outdoor adventures soon! Air travel during this time was very different to what I have been used to in the past and even as a super confident traveller it filled me with dread and panic more than once on our trip. Before I forget, I wanted to share some insights just in case it can make someones life a little easier on their next journey.

Get information from several trusted sources

It is always useful to hear from people who have lived the experience themselves but be aware that the rules, restrictions and requirements change too often to keep up with. Even the airline websites themselves do not seem to update in real time. I would advise getting all your information well before you travel from several sources such as government websites, the airline website and advice from those who have done the journey. THEN, check again a few weeks before you travel, a few days before you travel and a few hours before you travel. There is no such thing as being over prepared for travel during these times.

Stay Organised

Travelling is no longer a case of simply remembering your passport, Iqama, visa and tickets. There are now many documents that you will be required to show. I was even asked for documents not on the list (my PCR test receipts for on arrival to UK PCR tests). For this reason, even if you are not a list person, you may want to start now and write a list of everything you need to do and take with you so that you cannot forget anything.

Print Everything

Just as we were getting used to having everything on our mobile phones it seems we must return to paper. Every airport is different but some may require actual paper documents of PCR tests and arrival forms so take everything printed out to be on the safe side. Any online apps that need to be shown, make sure you check they are updated and working before you arrive at the airport. Even with all documents present and printed out it took a long wait and confirmation phone calls to let me and my children check in, which brings me to my next tip.

Allow Extra Time

I don't think it was anything particular that caused us to almost miss our flight but a combination of everything taking so much longer than normal. Give yourself extra time. The whole process is pretty stressful. Expect stress, expect delays and counter it by allowing plenty of time.

Be Covid Aware

Be aware of the different restrictions in your destination. Just because you can travel doesn't mean it will be without local requirements or restrictions. Some destinations may require mask wearing that you aren't used to or that customers are fully vaccinated; limiting your leisure options if you are not. Many places have strict fines or penalties for those not following Covid rules. Not only that be prepared that 'Covid Culture' differs from place to place. Coming from Saudi to England for example was a real Covid culture shock for me, I found it quite difficult at times and personally I am very glad to be back in Saudi Arabia. Being aware of what to expect can make a huge difference to how much you enjoy your trip.

Be Covid Safe

I felt in very good hands flying with the many preventative measures in place. However, it is more difficult to avoid people when you are at airports or on a plane. This can make things even more stressful when we travel with children. I would advise taking disposable masks for children and adults and having regular changes every couple of hours. Regular hand sanitising too goes without saying. When you sit down on the plane wiping everything down in your seating area from windows to tables and arm rests and TV's with sanitising wipes. I also use the blanket wrap to line the seat pockets too for an extra precaution. Although children have to wear masks when flying, I also found that having visors helped with my younger children as when busy areas were unavoidable I could put a visor on them for extra protection. It can help to allow time to go to a cafe or restaurant before boarding so children can have a little mask break if they have a long journey ahead.

Shop Around for PCR Tests

The cost of testing pre-travel and on arrival can be huge. As a family of five we could have paid for an amazing weekend away with what we spent on PCR testing alone. We found that there can be huge differences in cost and quality. For example I know of one friend who didn't even receive hers and others with very delayed results. Initial providers I looked at for the UK side PCR were asking for double what we eventually paid so do your research and get several prices before you decide.

Expect the Unexpected

It may be that your husband can't enter the airport to help you check in. It may be that there are no longer porters to help you with your luggage. Some airports may not be fully open so take your own essentials or extra snacks for the kids and certain airlines may serve food and drink differently to what you are used to. On arrival some airports have spot checks and you may find there are delays. Now is the time to be prepared for the unexpected and realise that we are not in control of our journeys in the same ways as we used to be. Acceptance of things outside of our control can keep us calm and going with the flow.

Praying for all those who are desperate to see families that they are reunited soon and that everyone who is able to travel has safe, uneventful and calm journeys.