Flying during the pandemic? 5 things to keep in mind to stay safe
1. Layer up with masks, face shields and gloves
Take multiple masks, either disposable ones or re-washables, throw in a face shield for added safety as you might come in close contact with other people. Wear a set of hand gloves to avoid directly touching anything. No matter how uncomfortable it gets, don't take them off! It's just a matter of few hours, at max.
2. Carry a hand sanitiser at all times
The best way to get rid of the virus is to constantly wash or disinfect your hands. Avoid touching surfaces as much as you can. Carry a hand sanitiser with you at all times, in case you accidentally touch a surface. Also remember to use it every time after you complete a transaction – Money, boarding pass, bags etc.
3. You don't need that meal
Do you, like my mother, enjoy bringing home the flight meal packet? Tough luck for you, then. Don't even touch that box. The ideal way to survive this pandemic is to consider everyone and everything you come across as potential Covid-19 carriers. Eat up before a long flight if you fear getting hungry mid-flight or carry light home-made snacks. Carry a small water bottle for your personal use only.
4. Carry a mini blanket
Many of us need a blanket in long flights when the temperature drops at high altitudes. Carry your own in that case and avoid reaching out for the standard issue flight blankets. Mini blankets or comforters can be found online on sites like Daraz, Othoba.com and so on.
5. Reconsider your life choices
The most important step of travelling during this pandemic is to reconsider if you really need to travel. Unless it's very important for you to travel; an urgent family need or an unavoidable field visit, can't you just wait a bit longer to go on that much fancied vacation? I hear a vaccine is around the corner!
Illustration by Zarif Faiaz
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