As borders begin to open up again and people consider travelling abroad, it’s vital to reflect on how this can be done safely to make sure that you, your family, and the people around you are protected from COVID.
The Australian borders are still subject to rapid changes, which can influence your travel. However, when it comes to entering Australia as a visitor or travelling between Australia and New Zealand in the safe travel zone, you should know how to ensure a safe, COVID-free journey where possible.
Register for your vaccine booster (or your vaccine if you haven’t already)
Booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccination are now available to everyone who have already had both doses of the primary course.
For many, travel is restricted without a valid COVID passport, which proves that travellers have had both doses of the primary vaccine - and it could soon prove to be the same for the booster vaccine. If you haven’t already, you should get in touch with your healthcare provider for your booster jab to protect you and your loved ones.
Stock up on PPE and know what to wear and when
Masks or face shields are still mandatory on most flights or modes of travel for those who are not exempt due to disability.
We recommend reusable face masks which can be washed and re-worn. These can vastly eliminate plastic waste while ensuring the safety of those around you.
Research the COVID cleanliness standards of potential hotels
Traveller comfort and safety is of the utmost importance. For hotels to achieve this level of reassurance, they should be able to demonstrate to you that they use reliable commercial cleaning products which have proven track records for fighting infections, including COVID-19.
Here at Rubbermaid Commercial Products, we’re proud to be one of the leading suppliers of cleaning products that can directly target COVID-19 and keep hotels safe for travellers. If you're a hotel manager or work in the hospitality industry, take a look at our Cleaning Checklist, Product Recommendations Guide, and Cleaning Best Practice Guide here: https://rubbermaidcommercial.com.au/a-higher-level-of-clean/#hospitality
Research and recognise the signs of poor air quality in hotels
Hotels should be transparent about the air quality measures they’re taking to mitigate the risk of airborne infections. Some warning signs of poor air quality include a lack of safety guidance signs and air cleaning or monitoring technology. You may also notice dusty floors and walls as well as musty smells. To combat this, Rubbermaid provides Air Care and Microfibre Cleaning Solutions with guides specific to the hotel industry.
If you’re ever unsure about the standards at your hotel, you should err on the side of caution and find another place to stay to make sure that you and your travel companions are safe on your travels.
Make sure your hotel is maintaining COVID regulations
This is easy enough to be sure of when you get in touch with the hotel. You can ask them directly what specific measures they are currently taking and plan to take to mitigate the risk of infection between staff and customers.
If you arrive and there are no signs indicating social distancing, masks and PPE, or explaining the cleanliness measures taken, you should treat this as a red flag.
For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Rubbermaid team today.
Travel photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com
