Flying has completely changed this year; first with lockdown and then with the social distancing procedures that, unfortunately, some airlines do not adhere to. Staying safe when you need to fly home, on vacation, or more likely for work has never been more important. Thankfully, there are still plenty of options available to you, especially if you need to travel often for work. You certainly don’t want to be stuck in a self-quarantine or to get sick, so use this guide to help you get to your destination safely.
Social Distance and Drive to the Airport
The best way to reduce risk from the very start of your trip is to drive yourself to the airport. Long-stay parking can of course add up, especially if you are flying from a very popular and busy airport such as JFK. Thankfully, you can find and book cheaper parking near JFK Airport and benefit from a free shuttle service directly to the airport and back. Otherwise, get a loved one to drive you and use the Kiss & Fly facility to save on costs and to stay safe on the way there.
Bring Cleaning Supplies With You
Though many of us have a bottle of hand sanitizer with us, that isn’t actually enough. Soap and water are the kings when it comes to removing viruses, because of a two-pronged approach that only this combination can provide. Not only does the soap break down the proteins, therefore nullifying viruses and bacteria, they also lift the viruses off your skin and wash them away.
The same applies to objects. To effectively clean and sterilize anything you need to wash it first, then disinfect it. You can do this yourself with a bottle of water, a bar of soap, and a cloth; and then use a disinfectant wipe to most effectively clean and sterilize anything you touch, particularly your airline seat.
Bring More Than One Face Covering
It’s going to be uncomfortable to wear a mask for the entirety of the trip, but you should if you can. During longer trips, however, your face covering is going to become damp and uncomfortable, which is why bringing more than one mask with you can help you stay refreshed and as comfortable as possible.
Wash Your Hands Properly
Wash your hands properly and for at least 20 to 30 seconds, as it takes this long to effectively work the soap into any viruses or bacteria on your hands. Wash thoroughly, but don’t scald yourself. The only hot water that will have any effect on killing the virus off is boiling, at which point you will seriously injure yourself. Warm water will do just fine.
Be Careful With Your Belongings
The virus cannot live on non-life forms for too long, but they can stay there for up to 72 hours before they die off. To avoid accidently spreading the virus by touching your bag, keep your belongings inside and don’t take them out during your trip or until after you have washed your hands. When you have reached your destination, wash your hands whenever you use your bag and keep it in an area such as a closet, where it can go into its own mini-quarantine.
