After being cooped up at home for years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are doing revenge travel. Restrictions are decreasing and countries are opening up to local and foreign tourists. However, some countries and locations might not be as open as others. Some have restrictions or requirements like wearing masks and latex gloves, while others are not.
Seasoned travelers know the importance of being prepared. But first-timers can find traveling to foreign countries and cities intimidating. Here are things to consider and determine whether you need latex gloves on your next trip.
7 Things to Consider Before Traveling
Before going anywhere, you must do your research to avoid difficulties and problems. Here are 8 things to consider before traveling to your destination.
Passport and Visa
Most countries require passports that are at least 6 months valid. Always check the expiration date of your passport. If your passport is due to expire soon, it’s best to renew it before traveling.
Check whether the travel location requires a visa. And if you’re planning to rent a car, find out if your international driver’s license is enough and still valid.
Vaccinations and Prescriptions
Visit the CDC website and check your target location’s vaccination requirements. Some countries and cities require COVID-19 vaccination cards, wearing of masks or disposable gloves, health certificates, or other vaccines.
If you have prescriptions, check whether your medicines are legal or allowed to where you’re passing through or traveling to. Always bring photocopies or the original copy of your prescription.
To keep everything organized, it’s best to carry a travel safety kit with enough medicines, vitamins, prescriptions, gloves, masks, health certificates, etc.
Health Advisories and Travel Warnings
With all that happening worldwide, you must visit your State Department’s website for any health and travel advisories before scheduling your travel. Avoid risky destinations to prevent any difficulties. Also, travel insurance doesn’t cover countries listed under travel warnings.
Currency, Modes of Payment, and Cash
Prepare different modes of payment accepted at your destination. Notify your credit card provider before leaving the country you’re going to. This prevents your credit cards from being denied.
These days, online banking is prevalent. But you need working sim cards for online payment. To prevent fraud risk, withdraw money from ATMs.
Accommodations
Before going to your destination, book your accommodation first to avoid the hassle. There are hotels, Airbnb, bed and breakfasts, and hostels. Ensure your accommodations are accessible or close to your modes of transportation like buses and trains for your convenience.
Modes of Transportation
There are many modes of transportation depending on your destination. Some offer taxis, buses, trains, and even car rentals. If you plan to rent a car, ensure your driver’s license is valid in that country.
Travel Insurance
Yes, travel insurance is very important when traveling. Travel insurance covers injuries, illnesses, cancellations, baggage theft or loss, and other unexpected mishaps or problems you encounter when traveling.
Tips When Traveling Abroad
For a hassle-free and enjoyable vacation, here are a few helpful tips:
- Do Your Research: Research the sites and spots you plan to visit. This will narrow down your accommodation options. Also, if there are restrictions and necessary things to bring or use, like wearing gloves and masks, you’ll need to add them to your luggage.
- Familiarize With Their Customs: Each country has its own customs and traditions. To avoid being disrespectful, being informed is a must.
- Get A Checkup: Before leaving, schedule a check-up to ensure you’re healthy and can enjoy your trip to the fullest.
- Pack Appropriately: Except for your important electronic devices, leave your jewelry and other important things at home. Expensive jewelry attracts thieves and makes you stand out, not in a good way. Pack the essentials like clothes, shoes, prescription glasses, etc. Label your luggages with your name, address, and contact information, inside and out. This will be useful when your luggage ends up missing or lost.
- Plan Properly: Having plan A and plan B can remove or decrease the stress and hassle of visiting a new country or city. Remember, there are instances when things don’t go as you planned. It’ll be helpful to prepare for the worst-case scenario.
Do You Need Disposable Gloves when Traveling?
This will depend on which country or city you’re traveling to. Some countries still enforce the strict wearing of masks and disposable gloves. However, this only applies to specific locations, applications, and situations. Hence, thorough research is important before traveling. Some locations and countries are more open than others.
If you’re unsure whether your travel destination requires gloves, visit their official website or CDC to check their protocols and requirements. Or you can just include disposable gloves in your travel safety kit. These gloves can be handy when you suddenly need them.
Traveling to a new location, city, or country can be daunting and intimidating. But there’s no need to be scared. All you need is research, courage, and planning ahead and you will have an enjoyable and memorable vacation.
