Whilst countries implement quarantines on their returning travellers and strict social distancing rules are enforced on transport hubs, the world is returning from a sometimes claustrophobic COVID lockdown and into a new world of travel. Whilst many may not yet be comfortable with travelling internationally, others simply have to due to family commitments or work. The international economy, both tourist and business-focused, has had to find new ways of making travel safe. Accommodation and transport do what they can; daily Montcalm Marble Arch COVID 19 updates help London travellers and guests assess their risk and airports installing temperature checking measures at the flight gates, but whether for better or for worse, the onus still lies on the individual traveller to assess their risk when it comes to catching and spreading coronavirus.
Travelling alone can have negative effects on our health, the long periods of idleness, the irregular sleeping patterns and unhealthy diets that come with it are another hurdle to overcome in an increasingly health-conscious industry. That’s why in the face fo Coronavirus, it’s extra important to keep your body, immune system and mental wellbeing in good stead. From COVID related cleanliness measures to keeping your mind active, this blog offers some life hacks for enduring international travel during a period where we must keep a more fervent eye on our general wellbeing.
Preparing Your Body For Jetlag
When embarking on long-distance flights, you might find yourself caught between timezones, and dropped unceremoniously out of your sleep patterns. The night is now day, breakfast is now dinner time, and you’re body clock has been inexplicably warped. This can have a real toll on both your mental and physical health, weakening your immune system and brain as they rush to adapt to the new timezone.
48 Hour Sleep Prep
To combat the debilitating effects of jetlag, make sure that you’ve given yourself a 48 hour grace period before your long haul journey. Make sure that you’ve been well-rested on the two nights before travelling. Many people make the mistake of getting less sleep the night before their journey so that they’re prepped for the new time zone, but your body deserves a far softer landing than the one that overtiredness will give you.
Keep A Tab On Your Alcohol And Caffeine
Alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns, so make sure that you at the very least keep a tab on your consumption of them 48 hours prior to travel. Never fear though, on the other side you’ll find that hotels like the Montcalm Marble Arch London are well equipped with world-class baristas and mixologists.
Stay Hydrated
And on the subject of liquids, make sure that during your long haul flight you have prepared a refillable bottle of water. The tiredness and idleness that comes with travel can leave you dehydrated without even realising it. Make sure that you have packed a bottle of water that you can refill along the way.
Stretch Your Legs Regularly
Whilst periods of turbulence will impede your mobility, take the time during a long haul flight or whilst you’re waiting for your gate call, to stretch your legs and take a walk. Whether it be to the toilet or around your terminal, keeping the blood flowing can decrease any chances of serious conditions such as DVT and muscle pains.
Plan Your Meals Ahead Of Your Trip
Aeroplane food is notoriously bad, so make sure that you’ve planned in advance for less appetising meals. Perhaps load up on vitamins before travelling, and always make sure to eat a healthy snack before or after you’ve entered your terminal.
Health Supplements Whilst Travelling
Health supplements such as vitamin C and Omega 3 can help in boosting your immune system while travelling, especially in light of bland or reheated meal choices during travel. Supplements can also help maintain your bodies regular functions in light of the disruption it will experience.
COVID And Travelling
Air Circulation And Planes
Apart from the crowded planes and close proximity, it’s actually quite hard for COVID 19 virus particles to settle on surfaces and in the air. The airflow and oxygen supply of planes means that there is a regular circulation of old into new air. However, buses and taxis on either side of your flight are hotbeds for the virus, so make sure to wear face coverings and pack hand sanitiser at all times during the trip.
Crowds And Queuing
Crowds during passport, security checks and baggage collection can once again put you in close contact with people outside of your immediate “bubble”. This, paired with the travel into or out of the airport will mean that it is at your own risk that you travel during lockdown. If you or anyone else in your immediate circle is in the “at-risk” category for catching and suffering greatly from COVID 19 symptoms, then take a stock check of how important your journey really is.
Avoid Regularly Touched Surfaces
From dining tables to escalator bannisters, regularly touched surfaces can carry and spread the COVID 19 virus, especially in areas with high footfalls such as airports. The particles have been known to survive on surfaces for long periods of time, though significantly diminish within 24 and 48 hours.
Hotel Safety
When it comes to long-haul travel, the destination is equally as important as the journey. Whilst Montcalm hotels have a Montcalm COVID-19 care protocol that keeps all staff on alert for potential outbreaks, it is still your responsibility to make sure that your accommodation is safe for you to stay in.
Try And Book A Well Ventilated Room
One way to ensure this is through booking a room that is well ventilated. Leave your windows open or at least make sure there is a sufficient airflow, especially if it has been used by someone before you. Whilst the COVID hotel sanitation protocol ensures that all rooms are sanitised after a guests departure, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Check For Infection Spikes In Your Area Before Travelling
Before travelling, check if the area you’re visiting has had any recent spikes in infection. This will better prepare you for the amount of caution you will need not only in the hotel but the surrounding area too.
