A Guide To Travelling With A Face Mask

 

The tourism industry has been one of the worst-hit during the Covid-19 pandemic. Travel has suffered gravely due to the travel restrictions imposed worldwide in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus. While some restrictions have been lifted since the initial months of the pandemic, the willingness to travel has decreased.

 

Even with extensive lockdowns in most countries over the period of a whole year, the virus is still rampant. Meanwhile, people are getting tired of being cooped up and are eager for a change and ready to travel again. Many who live away from home would like to visit family as well.

 

Wear a Mask While Traveling

 

Although it is impossible to eliminate the risk of getting infected while traveling, there are ways to minimize it. Many countries are implementing various measures to reduce the risk of infection while traveling. Enforcing strict protocols for safe traveling to stimulate the tourism sector. Some of these measures are mask-wearing, social distancing, and maintaining basic hygiene like washing hands.

As per the recommendations of health organizations wearing a mask should be practiced in all public places. Airlines, trains, and all forms of public transport have made wearing a mask mandatory as social distancing is not possible. Face masks are the new normal and there are a few points to keep in mind while traveling with one on.

 

  1. Choose the right mask:

A lot is still unknown about Covid-19 and how it spreads. According to recent studies, it is thought to spread most often by respiratory droplets. However, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced by wearing masks.

 

With the ever-increasing demand for masks, a wide variety is now available in all types and colors. However, it is important to choose the right one for yourself when traveling. The N95 mask while being the most effective isn’t very breathable. Luckily a huge variety of other options are available today. From the inexpensive fiber mask, the comfortable cloth masks, to surgical masks and the air mask with activated charcoal filter. You can even get masks matching your outfit. The trick here is to choose the one you are most comfortable in.

 

  1. Choose the right fit:

When traveling, it is safe to assume you will be spending much of your time in public places and around other people. Thus, you must choose one that fits properly for maximum efficacy. Ensure that your nose and mouth are both covered by the mask and that it fits without leaving gaps.

Face masks are available in different sizes to ensure a better fit. You can get a wider face mask for men, or a printed face mask for women. Buy face masks for kids that are more colorful and smaller for any child over the age of two. It is also essential that you wear it and dispose of it correctly. Make sure you wash or sanitize your hands before putting it on and taking it off. Use the ear loops to put it on or take it off. Avoid touching your mask once you have put it on.

  1. Stock up:

Make sure you carry adequate quantities of your favorite mask with you when traveling. It is advisable to have a backup mask on you at any given time. If you choose to wear environmentally-friendly washable cloth masks you must still get more than one. This is so that you can wash it after use and still have one ready for the next use.

 

Most airlines provide a disposable face mask for travel. It is still a good idea to buy a box of disposable masks beforehand. These are very affordable and easily available online. They are lightweight and breathable but provide great protection against the virus.

 

 

To End

 

You will have to remove your mask to eat and drink while traveling, having an extra surgical mask around will be helpful. This way you can dispose of one mask and put on a new one after eating. Without having to worry about properly storing your mask so that you can wear it again. In case you forget to carry enough with you on your trip, these are also easily available at any pharmacy.

Research shows that even asymptomatic patients can transmit the disease without knowing it. Therefore, considering the risks to yourself and anyone you come in contact with, it is essential to wear a mask. Especially when traveling. If everyone wears a mask, the risk of infection reduces considerably.

 

You may buy a face mask online or make one yourself. It must be comfortable and fit properly regardless of the type of mask you choose. Unless you are outdoors but not around people or in your hotel room, you should be wearing your mask at all times.