Traveling during a pandemic brings on a whole new set of challenges and many travelers are wondering what to bring with them just to survive the journey.
With restrictions changing by the day, it can be hard to keep up with the latest airline or local regulations.
The good news is, despite desperate attempts by Biden to keep you locked in your home, you can still travel safely during COVID-19 if you know how to do it right.
And with our tips, you can minimize (as much as possible) all the ways bureaucrats will abuse their power to punish or fine you – just for exercising your freedom to travel.
So before you even step foot in the airport – make sure you have these key items tucked away in your carry-on.
Multiple Masks
Hear me out.
I am NOT suggesting you torture yourself and wear 2 or 3 masks at a time like “experts” are now recommending.
While this could become mandatory in the future (God help us) – it isn’t yet.
But I am suggesting you pack a few extra in your bag.
Thanks to Biden, the TSA’s new role of becoming the official “mask police” has given them the authority to fine you if you aren’t wearing a mask.
But the directive goes even further and insists you need to wear the right kind of mask or you risk being denied boarding.
The TSA directive states:
“A properly worn mask completely covers the nose and mouth of the wearer. A mask should be secured to the head, including with ties or ear loops. A mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face. Masks do not include face shields. Masks can be either manufactured or homemade and should be a solid piece of material without slits, exhalation valves, or punctures.”
And with out-of-control airport staff looking for every reason to crack down on passengers – even telling a federal air marshal that his American flag mask was too “offensive” and he couldn’t board the plane – don’t be surprised if you get hassled.
As a safeguard, have an extra mask in your bag just in case you run into any problems.
You might think your mask is okay, but the last thing you want to do is miss your flight over a stupid mask.
Snacks
While every airline is different, don’t count on them feeding you anything during the duration of your flight.
And with expected airline delays and canceled flights, you could be stranded at the airport longer than expected.
There’s nothing worse than being stranded… than being STARVING and stranded!
Since you’re not allowed to bring your own bottle of water through security without being labeled a terrorist, you’ll already have to fork over 5 bucks for a beverage – so at least save yourself some money and have your own arsenal of healthy snacks like jerky, almonds, and fruit.
Sanitation Gear
No, we’re not suggesting you wear a hazmat suit, but you should plan to bring a few items to ensure your area is at least clean.
While some airlines hand out a tiny sanitation wipe when you board the plane, it’s not nearly enough to disinfect your area.
Airlines are already taking shortcuts when it comes to cleaning the cabin – and since we know airplanes host a hotbed of germs – do your part to wipe down your area.
I suggest packing your own disinfectant wipes so you can disinfect your tray table, armrest, seatbelt latch, and any other surface you’ll touch.
Of course, bring plenty of hand sanitizer with you and a few plastic baggies to dispose of your used products.
Alternate Plans
Okay, so maybe this one you can “pack” on your smartphone instead – but definitely have a plan B (and plan C) when it comes to travel.
Have alternate flights already picked out should your flight be canceled.
While other passengers will be struggling to find alternate routes, you’ll already be a step ahead of the game.
Research your destination and know their protocols as every city literally operates by their own set of rules.
And you might want to consider having a negative COVID-19 test with you just in case.
It might save you the headache (and expense) of being forced to quarantine in a city if they suddenly change their restrictions.
While Biden is doing everything he can to make travel as miserable as possible so people will give up and just stay home, you can still make it work with a few tweaks.
Travel isn’t what it used to be, and may never return to its pre-COVID state, but don’t let it stop you from living your life.
Just be smart about it!
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