How To Travel Safe This Summer

Heading off on a much-needed break? Read the new rules for keeping safe on holiday

- Ali Horsfall

Staying healthy and protecting others has been everyone’s priority during the pandemic, but missing out on holidays has been hard. After all, they’re something we look forward to and are a way to rest and recharge. So now more of us are getting the chance to leave home and enjoy a long-awaited break. And while many of us won’t be jetting off abroad just yet, there are still things to consider when having a UK holiday. ‘What this pandemic has shown us is that by paying greater attention to good hand hygiene, sensible social distancing and wearing a mask in closed environments, a real difference can be made to virus transmission,’ says immunologist and clinical researcher Dr Ross Walton. ‘Some or all of these learned, good hygiene habits are ones that we should not feel embarrassed to continue if they provide comfort to us.’ Here’s how to enjoy your holiday safely.

Avoid the hotspots

Planning ahead is key. ‘When we travel, we’re exposed to a large number of people, within closed environments, for sometimes long periods of time. Close contact and extended duration of exposure are the most important factors affecting spread of infection,’ says Dr Ross. Can you limit your time on public transport by walking or cycling once you are at your destination? It may also be best to avoid the busy tourist spots and seek out a quieter beach or park during the peak periods.

Feel comfortable in your accommodation