My first and last trip of 2020: Travelling in Sri Lanka
I haven’t boarded a plane since early February 2020. Since then, I’ve been exploring my small Atlantic Canadian bubble. I am focusing extensively on my new website, NovaScotiaExplorer.com, while I can’t travel globally. However, I look forward to travelling again and creating more international content—though it may take a little while.
Currently, I have no plans to fly anytime soon. But for some, air travel may be unavoidable—it could be for work, returning home, or visiting loved ones. If you find yourself needing to travel again soon, it’s essential to know a few tips for safe travel during a pandemic.
Image credit: CATSA
For Canadian travelers, it is crucial to know that the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has implemented numerous measures to ensure a safe security screening experience.
Face masks are now nearly mandatory across Canada. Regardless of whether it’s required, I’ve been wearing one since March, as I prefer not to take risks. All travelers within Canada must bring and wear their own face covering. These masks should fully cover the nose and mouth, consist of at least two layers of tightly woven fabric (like cotton or linen), and be securely fastened. (Refer to the guidelines from the Public Health Agency of Canada for instructions on making your own mask.)
Please do not travel if you feel unwell. If you exhibit symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing, you will not be permitted to proceed through the checkpoint.
At major airports, additional hand sanitizing stations have been established at public checkpoints. When washing your hands isn’t possible, be sure to utilize the provided hand sanitizers or bring your own. Travelers are also permitted to carry one bottle of hand sanitizer up to 355 mL in their carry-on bag. This is in addition to the regular 100 mL bottles subject to liquid restrictions.
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Be Prepared for Temperature Checks
At Canada’s 15 busiest airports, passengers will have their temperature checked at the screening checkpoint. No one will be allowed to proceed if their temperature reaches or exceeds 38°C, after two separate tests.
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Practice Social Distancing Whenever Possible
At the security screening checkpoints, all passengers must maintain a distance of two meters from each other. Have your boarding pass and identification ready for scanning, and you will be asked to hold these items while they are scanned.
Traveling during a global pandemic adds a level of stress that none of us have experienced before. It’s important to be kind to airport staff, allow yourselves plenty of time to arrive, check your bags, and get through security without rushing. Be mindful of your seating in the boarding area, ensuring everyone has enough space. Most importantly, keep your mask on at all times.
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Understand the Covid-19 Protocols for Your Destination
Before you travel, familiarize yourself with the Covid-19 protocols for your destination. Do thorough research on mask mandates, quarantine rules, and self-isolation requirements. Ignoring these guidelines can put lives at risk or lead to fines for breaking the rules.
Air travel remains an essential service, connecting people and goods. CATSA has taken every precaution to ensure that this remains safe. For more information, visit their website or download their app for Android or iOS.
Travel safely during the pandemic, my friends!
This post was sponsored by myself and CATSA.
