In the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, there is a significant risk of infection while travelling. In such a situation, many people are left wondering, should I travel by or drive it out – which is safer? Read on to find the answer.
As the travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 Pandemic are easing slowly, people are starting to go for a holiday. Many are confused about the safest mode of travelling. They are debating if taking a flight is better or going on a road trip instead.
To be true, both modes have their pros and cons. For instance, air travel takes the least amount of time, but you may be exposed to the crowd, which increases the risk of infection. On the other hand, driving by yourself allows you to be in a safe environment and control the surroundings. But, it also may have several hassles like accommodation, car breakdown, etc.
So, let us settle the debate and see which mode of transport is better during the Pandemic.
Travelling by air during the COVID-19 Pandemic
If you are looking to travel over a long distance, it is best advised to travel by air as it significantly reduces the travel time. Also, in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the government has imposed several safety measures at the airport. The airlines have also adopted protective measures like handing out PPE kits to all travellers, contactless check-in, etc.
So, if you are looking to travel anytime soon for a holiday with family or for work/business purposes, you can make the flight booking online well in advance to get the best deal on airfare. Ensure that you read about the travel norms from your city and the place you are travelling to so that you don’t face unnecessary hassles during the travel and when you arrive at the destination.
However, when it comes to travelling by air, it comes down to how serious other travellers are about following the precautionary measures. Are people following the security protocols? are they wearing the face mask correctly? Are they following respiratory etiquette? Airports tend to be crowded even with the social distancing norms in place, and the same goes when you are inside the aircraft.
Tips to be safe while travelling by air during the Pandemic
- Check all the COVID-19 rules and the precautions issued by the airlines.
- Avoid eating outside or at the airport as much as possible. Also, it is better to carry a reusable water bottle.
- Opt for online check-in. Most flights have made this a rule now.
- Choose a window seat so that you don’t have a passenger besides on one side at least. It minimises physical contact.
Travelling by road during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The good thing about driving on your own during the Pandemic is that you can have better control over your journey. Compared to flights, there is a lesser risk of physical contact with potentially-infected other passengers. But, there are a few cons of road travel. For example, if your car breaks down, it can be challenging to get help. If you are travelling over a long distance, fatigue, sore muscles, weariness could settle-in due to long hours of driving.
Also, finding accommodation can be a problem as you would not want to risk staying at any road-side hotel or lodge to avoid contact with others.
Tips to be safe while travelling by road during the Pandemic
- Plan your route well so that you can reach the destination in the shortest time possible.
- Pack enough food and water so that you don’t have to take many pit stops and avoid eating at hotels or road-side joints where you may have to come in contact with others.
- Avoid visiting crowded places.
- Maintain social distancing norms, and follow other precautionary measures at all times, including wearing the mask, avoid touching any surfaces, use sanitiser regularly.
