Wash hands regularly

If soap and water are not available to clean your hands, use a hand sanitiser which is at least 60% alcohol. Experts agree that hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the best defence and caution that constant use of hand sanitiser can irritate your skin.

If you’re unwell, don’t travel

If you are feeling unwell you shouldn’t travel, even if you feel that it is just the beginning of something or the tail end of a bad cold. It’s best to not travel and risk spreading a virus to multiple people you may come into contact with.

Cover up

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, using your elbow if you don’t have one to hand. Ensure you wear a facemask to protect your fellow travellers and, go home as soon as possible if you begin to feel sick while at work.

Clean up

While many airlines are very hygienic and have introduced stringent cleaning measures, there is no guarantee that every surface will get the full treatment. Carry antibacterial wipes to clean your seat armrest, tray table, seat-back pocket, air vent, seat touch screen, headrest and window blind.

The same advice is sensible for other items frequently used by travellers, such as hotel television remote controls. Also make sure to clean your hands after travelling on shuttles or taxis, holding handrails and using lifts. Getting pocket sized antibacterial wipes or sanitiser can be easy to pack in your hand luggage.

Breathe easy

Almost all modern aircraft have HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arrester) filters that will filter 99.999% of dust particles and airborne contaminants such as viruses and bacteria, ensuring the highest possible quality of cabin air. However infection specialists suggest a window seat, away from passenger foot traffic, could offer you a bit more protection. So if you’ve been left feeling more anxious about air travel, then opt for a window seat on your next flight to ease your concerns.

Have vaccinations up-to-date

While there is no vaccine for COVID-19, having all other essential vaccinations up-to-date will help you stay healthy and prevent your immune system from being compromised.

Stay up-to-date with travel advice

Make sure to check our Traveller Hub for the latest information and advice. You can also download FCM's free SAM app to stay updated on all travel disruptions. Staying informed about what is happening in the world can help prevent unnecessary travel to infectious destinations. 

Travel insurance

Travellers who bought travel insurance before COVID-19 became a ‘known event’ may be covered for medical expenses and cancellations. Most travel insurance companies tend to exclude cover for pandemics and epidemics, if you read the fine print. Insurance policies vary greatly, so it’s best to contact the insurance company directly or enquire via your travel manager.

Use your Account Manager

At times like this, having a dedicated account manager and a travel management company with a genuine 24/7 emergency hotline (not just an answering service) is priceless. Should you be quarantined or denied entry to a country your FCM travel manager can help with accommodation, flight changes, cancellations and alternative routing. Also download your travel company’s mobile app to stay up-to-date with travel alerts and changing conditions.