10 Things You Need To Pack For Travelling Internationally Post-Covid
With international set to resume very soon, travelling abroad now will likely see many differences to pre-COVID. Airports are likely to be a risk zone for some time with many people coming from destinations from all over the world so it's important to help stop the spread of disease, as well as to keep yourself and the people you are travelling with safe.   These are the top 10 things you should now include on your packing list post-COVID...
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1. FFP3 Face mask for the planeÂ
With many people in close proximity to one another, an FFP3 face mask are one of the most protective face masks. With 99% bacterial filtration these type of face masks are certified whereas a regular uncertified face mask will not give you any protection, it will just protect others in the case that you have coronavirus.  You may be on the plane for some time so comfort is essential.  A 3D shaped face mask with a valve or a 3M face mask with a valve will be the most comfortable for long journeys. Â
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2. Hand sanitizerÂ
You might already be used to carrying hand sanitizer with you wherever you go, if not, you should definitely pack some for your trip.  Different countries are all at different stages with COVID so stay alert and play it safe to avoid a disastrous trip.  The CDC advise hand sanitizer with no less than 60% alcohol.  Use regularly to avoid the spreading of germs.  Make sure its travel size – no more than 100ml.Â
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3. International SIM cardÂ
An international SIM card is always a must-have for travelling in order to keep your call, data usage and SMS sending low cost.  Now that the UK has left the EU roaming changes may now apply for you if you are from the UK travelling to the EU, or if you are from Europe travelling to the UK.  Your international SIM card will combat these charges.  Â
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4. Dual SIM phoneÂ
Rather than having to switch your international SIM card and your regular SIM card, take a dual SIM phone or a dual SIM adapter with you when you travel.  It's much easier and less faff. Staying in contact and staying connected post-COVID is essential so you can keep up to date with any announcements from your travel provider, and reach your loved ones wherever you are.
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5. Disposable Face masksÂ
The rules for face masks may well be different in the country you are travelling to so it's handy to have some disposable face masks on your person at all times whenever you need them.  We love the individually wrapped face masks as you know that they are clean when you put them on and you can always have a few in your bag for emergencies.  Alternatively, carry a Ziplock bag with you and keep several masks in there.Â
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6. Travel InsuranceÂ
With more potential than pre-COVID travel insurance might be a good option – but make sure your policy protects against COVID related conditions, medical, flight and accommodation changes and cancellations as not all of them do. Read the small print although it's tedious!
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7. COVID TestsÂ
It's likely that you will need a negative COVID test to travel, possibly in both directions depending on where you are travelling to.  It's usually a PCR test that’s required which can be a bit pricey.  If you want to make sure you don’t have COVID before you get a PCR test you can take a COVID saliva test at home beforehand for peace of mind, but keep remember that when travelling the COVID test results will need to be specific one that proves you are fit to fly so do check with the testing provider before you get the test so your don't waste money.
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8. Antibacterial wipesÂ
The upside to coronavirus is that now everyone is much more hygienic.  Antibacterial wipes are handy for wiping down surfaces on the plane, cleaning your phone screen (a breeding ground for germs) and toilet door handles. Make sure your antibacterial wipes are at least 60% alcohol else they won't kill enough germs to protect you.
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9. ThermometerÂ
This might not be 100% necessary but if you are concerned about catching coronavirus, you are travelling to a country that is still having difficulties in managing outbreaks or you have underlying health conditions, you might want to take an infrared thermometer with you to check your temperature daily. A temperature of 38 degrees celsius (this equates to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit).Â
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10. Portable WiFiÂ
Portable WiFi enables you to stay connected for less, anywhere that has network coverage.  Insert your international SIM card for cheap data rates and connect all your devices wherever you are. These travel gadgets are very handy if you want to spend the day working from the beach or if your accommodation doesn’t have WIFI in the rooms. You never know when you are going to get caught short, as these devices are usually pocket-sized you can carry them with you for emergencies.
Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry so please do take precautions when you travel so your trip isn't interrupted by anything unpleasant. Meanwhile, here at WorldSIM, we will do our best to bring you all the products your need to make your travels as smooth as possible.
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