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Travel for Seniors During Covid-19: Is It Safe for the Elderly to Fly?

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Happy senior couple travelling.

In 2021, traveling became possible again. Yet, many people refrained from getting back on the air for fear of contracting Covid-19, especially elderly and immunocompromised individuals. It’s not hard to see why.

Anyone could get Covid-19. However, seniors have a higher risk of getting severely infected. Consequently, they had to be extra precautious for the last two years.

Fortunately, the pandemic situation in 2022 is improving every day. However, while Covid is still here, some may wonder: Is it safe for the elderly to fly on vacations?

If you’re a senior, or you look after one, this post is for you. Today, we’ll share everything you need to consider when planning to travel, for seniors.

We’ll cover:

  • How to choose your destination
  • Considerations before and after your flight
  • How to choose your accommodation
  • Suggested activities

Without further ado, let’s get started!

Choosing Your Destination

When deciding where to go, take a look at:

  • Current infection rates in your destination
  • Local travel restrictions
  • How many tourists are currently visiting
  • What outdoor activities are available

Current Infection Rates

The reality of Covid-19 varies from one country to another. While some might be quite relaxed due to successful health policies, others are about to face the fifth wave. For example, Hong Kong.

Infection numbers can give you an accurate picture of your destination’s current situation. They’ll also be useful to predict if any new travel restrictions are likely. Plus, the lower the rate, the lower the possibility of getting Covid-19 during your vacation.

Local Restrictions

What makes you feel more comfortable? Do you prefer a place where people need to be vaccinated to access venues? Somewhere where masks are mandatory everywhere you go? Ask yourself what makes you feel safe, and choose accordingly.

Number of Tourists

We all know that social distancing is key to avoiding getting Covid-19. Yet, many of the world’s most popular tourist spots can be packed with visitors, especially in the summertime.

Don’t let this stop you from traveling! There are plenty of exciting, breathtaking, and uncrowded places to visit, such as Patagonia, Liechtenstein, and more.

Outdoor Activities

Keeping social distancing in mind, outdoor activities are ideal for a vacation. Therefore, this is something you should add to your selection criteria: Are outdoor activities available in your intended destination? Would you find them appealing?

Safe Travel Tips for Seniors

Flying has been proven to be safe. Nonetheless, to ensure a smooth trip, you should be aware of the travel restrictions that apply to your destination and to any stops along the way.

If you’re traveling internationally, keep in mind that a negative PCR test is an entry requirement in most countries. However, some local authorities may require that you’re fully vaccinated. And, if you’re not vaccinated, they may ask you to quarantine. Other nations also require you to have health insurance that covers Covid-19 expenses.

Check your destination’s requirements before booking your flight. These requirements may change as time passes. So stay updated, especially one month before your departure.

Accommodation

Hotels are following cleaning protocols to protect their guests and employees.

Some best practices include:

  • Thorough cleaning
  • Mandatory mask wearing for staff
  • Mandatory mask wearing for guests in public areas
  • Contactless payment
  • An established protocol in case a guest gets Covid-19
  • High air circulation
  • Having furniture rearranged to maintain social distance in public areas

There are more hotel protocols, these are only a few. You can get an overview of each hotel’s practices on their website. Book an option that makes you feel safe. Nevertheless, if you’d rather avoid other guests, you can always opt for a rental.

Additionally, if possible, it’s advisable to book near the attractions of your interest. That way, you’ll reduce your use of public transport to the minimum.

Suggested Activities

Outdoor activities are fascinating. Still, some seniors might not be as inclined to them due to physical limitations. Despite popular belief, many of those attractions can still be enjoyed by those with limited mobility. For example, national parks offer a fair variety of activities, including scenic drives and nature walks.

On the other hand, in Macchu Picchu hiking is not the only way to get to see the marvels of the Inca trail. There’s a train from Cusco that can get you there and from which you can also enjoy the picturesque views.

Moreover, beaches in the Caribbean or Indonesia are ideal to relax and enjoy awe-inspiring nature.

Even if you’d rather visit a city, you can get on an open-top bus, and see everything there is to see. Additionally, most world-class museums are quite big, have limited capacity, and have enhanced their air circulation system.

Try not to rely on assumptions. Options are endless, you just have to do some research.

Key Takeaways

In 2022, traveling abroad is getting easier and safer. However, the pandemic isn’t over yet, and being precautious is key for things to continue improving. This is especially true for those at a high risk of severe infection, such as seniors.
Getting tested is a key requirement for travel. And it’s also the most effective way to keep you and those around you safe.

Wondering where to get tested? Discover testing locations near you with our international directory

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