With the turbulence that 2020 brought, it is certain that the way we travel has changed. I’ve always been an advocate of good travel planning and now, more than ever, paying attention to the details of travel planning is vital.
This is especially true for international travel which now comes with a few more considerations that we did not have before. Let’s break down the things to consider when traveling internationally in 2020/21.
What to consider when planning international travel in 2020/21
Besides keeping up to date with regulations and Covid-19 statistics in your destination there is additional admin that we need to get done for international travel. We now also need to be much more cautious about our travel purchases.
I’ve shared my thoughts on what I will be doing when travelling internationally. Consider this advice when planning your international trip.
Understand the cancellation policies
Losing money or dealing with the stress of changing travel plans is avoidable with good travel planning.
You absolutely have to pay attention to the cancellation policy of all travel bookings that you make. Please always make sure to do this BEFORE you pay.
When booking flights far in advance, it’s worthwhile to go for a flexible flight option that allows date changes and/or refunds even if this means incurring additional costs.
Look for the same flexibility when booking accommodation. When booking accommodation using Airbnb, for example, take note of the free cancellation period. Cancelling your booking after the free cancellation period has passed usually results in you forfeiting a percentage of your refund. Set a reminder on your calendar to alert you of the lurking end of your free cancellation period.
If any information is unclear in the cancellation policy on any booking platform, rather ask instead of making assumptions. Make sure you understand what you are agreeing to before handing over your hard-earned cash.
Confirm the COVID-19 testing requirements
It is now a common requirement that travellers present a negative Covid-19 test result in order to be granted access to international destinations. The exact requirements vary per country/airline with differing accepted testing timeframes. For example, some countries require that your test be done up to 72 hours prior to departure. Be aware that a mandatory quarantine period is also a requirement upon arriving at some destinations.
Getting a Covid-19 test done is mostly unavoidable for international travel. Fortunately, Prime Medical Solutions offer the ultimate convenience of at-home Covid-19 testing and provide you with the certification needed for travel. So this means that you can get your Covid-19 swabs done while you are at home, in office or at a hotel. I love how this makes this additional travel requirement a whole lot easier!
COVID swabs done at your home
Prime Medical Solutions is a highly professional virtual medical practice based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Physical testing is limited to Johannesburg however, Prime Medical Solutions can assess and refer for testing anywhere across South Africa.
Dr Sihle Asiedu-Darkwah, founded Prime Medical Solutions with the clear aim of serving her patients at their convenience. Home/office consultations are amongst the other convenient medical services that Prime Medical Solutions offer such as virtual consultations.
Travelling soon and require a Covid-19 test? Book your consultation with Prime Medical Solutions and they will come to you! I’m a big fan of anything that makes travel preparations easier and Prime Medical Solutions does exactly that.
Contact Prime Medical Solutions
- info@primemedicalsa.co.za
- +27 063 695 4822
- Prime Medical Solutions
- @primemedicalsolutions
Get travel insurance
2020 has shown us that the most unexpected changes can happen on a global scale.
To better guard yourself from unexpected changes, falling sick while travelling, losing luggage etc get comprehensive travel insurance for your international travel even when it is not a requirement for visa applications.
Travel insurance: simple & flexible
You can buy and claim online, even after you’ve left home. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from over 130 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities.
Wishing you safe travels for your international trip!
This article is sponsored by Prime Medical Solutions.
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