We used to daydream about going straight to the airport and taking the first flight out for our next vacation.
Although it wasn’t always the most realistic dream, it feels a little further out of reach right now. Taking a vacation or planning a business trip definitely requires a little more planning and preparation than we’re used to.
Let’s take a look at some of the things you’ll need to consider before you take off for that next trip!
Before you go:
Make sure you check the local government’s guidelines, especially if you are travelling internationally. Many locations have implemented temporary changes to the visa and entry requirements. Some airlines also have additional conditions for when you fly with them. It is also worth checking your re-entry requirements of your departure country to ensure you are aware of any restrictions that may impact you on return. If you need a Covid test to travel or return, check out Collinson Covid Testing, and if needed, you may even be able to take an antigen testing pack with you for the trip back.
Check your insurance. Make sure you know what is and is not covered. Make sure you check your policy for everything from outdoor activities and lost luggage to cancellations and the pandemic.
It goes without saying that all of the previous requirements for your travel still need to happen, but if you need any assistance on how to plan that trip read this, and here are our tips to avoid overpacking.
Before you go to the airport, make sure you download the Priority Pass app and turn on push notifications. That way you’ll get all the information you need every time you go to the airport.
It’s worthwhile allowing a little bit of extra time to check-in and drop your luggage if you need to. Many of the shops have re-opened in airports across the world, so you can do all your shopping (be sure to check out the hundreds of retail discounts available in the app) before you head over to a Priority Pass lounge. The lounges have enhanced health and safety guidelines to keep you safe, so your experience may be a little different from the last time you visited.
Don’t forget to review your lounge experience in the app to let us know your thoughts.
On the plane:
Make sure you pack everything you’ll need on the plane in your carry-on. That hasn’t changed. But what you need to pack has. Antibacterial wipes are very useful to have to hand at all times, even more so on the plane. You can wipe down the seatbelt, armrests, tray table, window and entertainment system, pretty much, anything that you’re going to need to touch while you’re in your seat.
You should also take hand sanitiser, so you can protect yourself throughout your journey. But make sure you take a bottle that is within the liquid restrictions for the airport and airlines you’re travelling with. Alternatively, you can visit a terminal store and pick some up, once you’ve checked in and cleared security.
A lot of airlines require you to wear masks whilst onboard. Some even require you to wear disposable medical masks (the blue ones you’ll have seen a lot of lately) rather than cloth masks, so it might pay to check the guidelines for your respective airlines.
Plus all the stuff you used to pack – there’s nothing worse than forgetting your headphones on a flight!
The most important thing to do, is to make sure you adhere to local guidelines and restrictions that are in place. When you’re out and about, it is a good idea to take the same pack you carried onto the plane (antibacterial wipes, hand sanitiser and masks) as these are always useful when you’re exploring, you may not know what the day will bring. Plus, check out our top app recommendations to make your holiday experience far easier. Make sure you keep an eye on the requirements regarding your return trip back home. And while you’re on your vacation, makes sure to have fun. And take lots of photos.
Once you return:
Don’t forget to check out the lounges at the airport before you jump on the plane home. It’s the ultimate way to finish a holiday. If you have turned your push notifications on, the Priority Pass app will even remind you once you get to the airport! Be sure to stick to the rules and requirements around isolating and testing once you do get home. Also do let everyone know how much of a good time you’ve had, and show them all those photos from your trip!
