As I shared in my previous post, I was self-isolating in my apartment for two weeks to safely travel to Manitoba, one of the few provinces with a 2-week isolation rule. I learned a few tips before traveling, and throughout traveling that I think it is only fair to share with you.
While I do not condone traveling for pleasure during this time, if you have to travel for work or family reasons, here are some tips to consider:
Wear glasses – While masks are mandatory on the flight, all protection can help. A friend of mine who had travelled previously shared that wearing glasses as an added protection for her eyes helped. So, that’s what I did!
Wash your face – Before traveling while wearing a mask, I tried researching ways to prevent mask-ne. I was getting mixed information online, and so I tried what I think my face needed the most. I washed my face and moisturized right before heading to the airport and wearing my mask. For someone who has sensitive skin, I have to say that this was successful for my face.
Face shields – Do you want to look like a badass? Add a face shield to your airport outfit. Apparently, the mask is to protect others, and the face shield is to protect yourself. You can get a pack on Amazon for an affordable price.
Put Vicks under your nose – While I did not do this myself, I wish I had. This will help protect yourself from your own breath while wearing the mask for a long time. Blair is a fan of this.
Fly in the middle of the week – While it might be easier for you to fly on the weekend, if you have the privilege to fly Monday evening through to Thursday, I would highly recommend it. Both of my flights had around 30 people on it and I had my own row both ways.
Bring wipes and sanitizer – Airlines are giving wipes out but you can never have too many. I wiped everything including the seat, the table, the seat in front of me, the seats beside me, the window area and more.
It’s a good idea to leave your mask and other protective gear on for the duration of your time on the airplane. If you can avoid going to the bathroom, you should. If you can avoid eating or drinking on your flight, you should. Just remember to wash your hands with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds), don’t touch your face and as soon as you get to where you are going, have a shower and toss your travel clothing in the laundry.
Have you had to travel during the pandemic and have tips to share? Comment below.
Written by Alana Kaplan, Project Manager for the I Am Resilient Project.