Traveling During a COVID Surge? 10 Travel Hygiene Habits You Can't Afford To Skip Now

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Just when we thought COVID-19 was a chapter in history, a fresh spike in cases has brought the virus back into the spotlight. With India recently crossing 1,000 active COVID-19 cases, and new subvariants like NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 making the rounds, it's clear that we can't afford to be complacent-especially while travelling.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, attending a business meeting in another city, or jet-setting across borders, one thing remains unchanged: your health is still your passport. The good news? Staying safe doesn't mean cancelling your plans-it just means being smart, prepared, and hygienic.

Travelling in a post-pandemic world now demands a little extra caution. With many people letting their guard down and mask mandates mostly lifted, you need to be your own first line of defence. Here are 10 practical, must-do hygiene habits to help you stay safe while on the move, even as COVID-19 tries to sneak back into the picture.

1. Mask Up In Crowded Or Enclosed Spaces

Even if local regulations have been relaxed, wearing a mask in crowded places like airports, train stations, or inside planes and buses remains one of the easiest ways to reduce exposure to airborne viruses. New COVID variants are still highly transmissible, especially in enclosed areas with poor ventilation. A high-quality N95 or KN95 mask can offer significant protection, particularly if you're spending hours in transit. Remember, you're not just protecting yourself-you're also helping prevent potential spread to others.

2. Keep A Travel-Sized Hand Sanitizer Handy

Your hands touch everything while travelling-luggage handles, railings, restroom doors, ticket kiosks. It's easy to pick up germs without even realizing it. A pocket-sized sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol should be your constant companion. Use it before eating, after touching common surfaces, and definitely after using public restrooms. Just a few seconds of sanitizing can prevent hours of regret.

3. Avoid Touching Your Face

This one's harder than it sounds. The average person touches their face over 20 times an hour without even realizing it. When you're in public spaces filled with high-contact surfaces, every unconscious face-touch increases the risk of transferring viruses into your system via your eyes, nose, or mouth. Be mindful and try to keep your hands occupied-reading a book, holding a drink, or even keeping them in your pockets can help.

4. Disinfect Your Travel Essentials

Your phone, passport, boarding pass, headphones, and wallet go everywhere with you-often in and out of trays, counters, and bags. These items can become mobile virus carriers if you're not careful. Use disinfectant wipes to gently clean them once or twice a day while you're travelling. It's a simple routine that can go a long way in reducing contamination.

5. Hydrate Often And Eat Smart

A well-hydrated, well-fed body has a stronger immune system. Drinking plenty of water keeps your mucous membranes moist, which is your body's natural barrier to viruses. Eating nutrient-rich foods-especially those high in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants-can help your immune system stay alert. Carry your own water bottle and avoid overly processed food or shared buffet lines when possible.

6. Sanitize Your Hotel Room Or Stay Space

Don't assume your hotel or Airbnb has covered every hygiene detail. When you check in, give high-touch surfaces a quick wipe-doorknobs, light switches, TV remotes, and bathroom counters are all hotspots for germs. Carrying a small pack of disinfectant wipes is a smart habit that can reduce your risk without being too much of a hassle. If you're extra cautious, consider bringing your own pillowcase or travel sheet.

7. Maintain Distance When You Can

Social distancing might feel like a relic of 2020, but it's still one of the most effective ways to avoid infection. If you're in a queue, choose the spot with more breathing room. While waiting at boarding gates or lounges, try to sit apart from large groups. At restaurants, pick outdoor seating when available. Giving yourself that one or two meters of space might mean avoiding an infection altogether.

8. Use Contactless Options Whenever Possible

Touchless technology is your best friend while travelling during a health-sensitive time. From mobile check-ins and QR-code menus to digital boarding passes and UPI payments-use these options to reduce unnecessary contact. The fewer surfaces you touch, the lower your risk. Bonus: it's usually faster and more efficient, too.

9. Listen To Your Body And Don't Push Through Illness

It's tempting to ignore a sore throat or a light fever while travelling, especially if you have reservations and plans lined up. But these small symptoms could be the early signs of a COVID-19 infection. Be responsible-not just for yourself but also for those around you. If you feel unwell, mask up immediately, isolate if possible, and test at the earliest opportunity. Postpone plans if needed. Health first, itinerary later.

10. Keep Your COVID-19 Vaccination Up To Date

Vaccines remain your strongest protection against severe illness. With new subvariants emerging, some health authorities recommend booster shots for vulnerable groups. Before you travel, especially internationally, check if your COVID-19 vaccine status is still considered up to date and whether your destination requires any specific proof. A digital copy of your certificate saved on your phone or a printed version in your travel wallet can save you last-minute panic.

Travel is one of life's great pleasures, and even in the shadow of COVID-19, it's still possible to enjoy it safely. The key lies in proactive prevention, not paranoia. By adopting smart hygiene habits, being a little more aware of your surroundings, and listening to your body, you can protect yourself and others while still soaking in the joy of the journey.

It's not about traveling in fear-it's about travelling wisely. COVID-19 may be back in the headlines, but so is your power to stay ahead of it.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.