We’re here to help you get from door-to-door (if you’re allowed) safely
By now you’ve probably got the basics down to a T (we’re talking face, space and hands). But what else can you do to help stay safe while you’re travelling during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak? We reveal all.
First up, you should only travel (both domestically and internationally) if you’re legally allowed to do so. You can find out about your local restrictions here.
Remember, you must not travel at all (unless you’re going to get an NHS COVID-19 test) if you:
• Have tested positive for COVID-19
• Have been told by the NHS Test and Trace service to self-isolate
• Are experiencing any coronavirus symptoms
• Someone in your household or support bubble is experiencing coronavirus symptoms
Travelling within the UK
Whether you’re commuting to work (which can’t be done from home during a lockdown), or you’re visiting those in your support bubble, there are simple steps you can take to help keep yourself and those around you safe while travelling.
When you head out, you should:
• Try to maintain a two-metre distance from others. For example, when boarding a bus
• Wash your hands thoroughly (20 seconds, remember!) before leaving the house, then use a hand sanitiser when out and about. Wash hands thoroughly when you’ve arrived at your destination, too
• Wear a face covering on public transport or while in specific indoor settings
• Follow any one-way systems in place to help avoid crowding
• Avoid car sharing with anyone from outside your household or your support bubble
You could also consider the following:
• Buy your ticket online or via smartphone apps before travelling
• Pay using contactless. For example, if you have to stop at a service station
• When using public transport, avoid rush hour by travelling at off-peak times
• Use quieter stations and stops. For example, you could get off a stop early and walk
• Take the most direct route and keep changes to a minimum
• Walk or cycle instead (if possible)
• Bring your own food and drink to avoid standing in queues to purchase refreshments (and remember to wash or sanitise your hands before you eat!)
Travelling internationally
As well as practising the above measures, if you’re permitted to travel overseas you should:
• Check the official entry requirements for the country you’re heading to. For example, some countries require PCR testing, screening or mandatory quarantine periods
• Keep up-to-date with the rules in place at your destination. For example, regulations on face coverings
• Understand what you need to do when you return to the UK. For example, showing proof of a completed passenger locator form, or undergoing a mandatory quarantine period
Some other things you could do include:
• For peace of mind, chat to your airline and accommodation provider about their safety and hygiene measures
• If you’re flying, bring anti-viral wipes and clean your area carefully before sitting down, including arm rests and tray tables
• When you arrive at your accommodation, clean all major touch points, like TV remotes, door handles and light switches
If you need to take a COVID-19 test before travelling to another country (like the United Arab Emirates), you should not use the NHS testing service. Testing for the purposes of international travel is not available on the NHS, so instead you should arrange to take a private test. Find out about Boots’ private tests here.
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Help keep yourself, your loved ones & your community healthy
