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How will COVID-19 change the way we travel in the future?

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From daydreaming about our next staycation to watching travel vlogs online, it is no surprise there would be a pent-up demand to travel once travel bans are lifted. While waves of the recent coronavirus pandemic have put our lives on pause, most of us can’t wait to travel! Of course, we also need to be prepared for the new normal once these restrictions are lifted.

As the virus would have impacted each country differently, it is understandable that every travel destination will have its own set of regulations. Thus, it is important to stay up to date on the latest news from the government websites of countries we plan to travel to. We should also ensure that we have the proper insurance coverage in case our travel plans get disrupted.

From getting routine checks done early to why travel insurance coverage matters, here’s a handy guide on what you can expect on your next adventure!
 

Immunisations matter

Before you leave for your next trip, consider a trip to your local family doctor first. Consult your doctor and get those routine medical checks done early. Whether you suffer from respiratory-related diseases like asthma or have medical conditions like diabetes, it’s important to stock up on your regular medicines before embarking on your journey. While you're at it, get yourself a copy of your prescription list in the event you might need more medications along the way.

Having a prescription list during travels can be especially useful in the event your usual over-the-counter medicines may not be available in your destination country. And if you have a sensitive gut, pack some probiotics to keep your sensitive stomach protected. This way, you can save yourself from picking up travellers' diarrhoea too, a common illness travellers face from eating contaminated food.
 

A different pre-boarding experience

Whether you’re planning to soak under the pristine blue waters in the Bahamas or finally go on that business trip to the USA, expect enhanced precautionary measures right from Changi Airport. Even planning a trip to our neighbouring countries like Malaysia calls for stringent health checks and measures. In the global fight against COVID-19, temperature screening of both passengers and staff are said to remain vigilant at security checkpoints with alternate check-in counters set to come into place. Health-related entry checks such as frequent temperature screenings and health certificates are likely to become the new normal when it comes to the air-travel.

Airlines are also gradually implementing stricter tighter travel health requirements. For instance, Air Asia has already implemented on-ground and in-flight safety measures like mandatory masks to be worn before, during and after the flight as well as nightly cleaning processes. So if you decide to return to the skies with Air Asia on your next flight, be sure your mask is always by your side or you won't be able to hop on to the plane.
 

The face mask as your new travel companion

Before the virus shook the world, the one thing that we could never leave behind before we step afoot onto our dream holiday destination was just our passport. With tightened security checks and increased frequency of social distancing measures as the new norm, stepping out with a mask on standby is encouraged.

Be sure pack your mask into your carry-on handbag, and if you're thinking of throwing in a couple of reusable masks into your luggage, consider reusable cloth masks where you can! Not only do they offer protection against droplets from coughing and sneezing which could potentially linger on your skin and start a virus, but they are also kinder to the environment. And the best part, they can be easily washed in the comfort of your hotel room.
 

Hygiene, hygiene, hygiene

Travelling no doubt gets us all excited, but sometimes exploring a foreign country can leave us forgetting hygiene along the way. And of course, we all know about the importance of hand sanitisers now before stepping outdoors. Even on a care-free getaway, hygiene is still extremely crucial.

To avoid any setbacks during your trip, it's always important to remember that practising good hygiene is prevalent even during travels. Wash your hands as regularly as you can and don’t forget to bring along a travel-sized hand sanitizer with you. Aside from packing regular pills and having a mask with you, flying sanitised can avoid unexpected health hiccups! If you tend to feel queasy often, be sure to bring along your usual over-the-counter medications with you -- safety first!
 

Having travel insurance coverage early

Protecting your travel investment such as buying travel insurance online before your next travels can give you a step ahead in the nick of time when things turn topsy-turvy. Having one at hand can provide you with the monetary coverage in the event you fall ill or simply end up in unforeseen circumstances where your luggage gets lost along the way.
 

Blue skies ahead

Whether you’re planning for your next family trip or a dream holiday, DirectAsia can be there when you need us most. At DirectAsia, we care about your every need. We provide customizable and cheap travel insurance coverage depending on your travel and welfare needs so you always travel safely and affordably. To find out more about how DirectAsia can assist with buying your travel insurance, visit us here!