It’s one thing to move during regular days; it’s another to do so during this pandemic.
Just the idea of moving is already stressful. What more if you consider the travel restrictions and other measures to ensure your health and safety during this pandemic. Whether you’re looking to relocate to a new city or go back to your hometown, be sure to plan and prepare beforehand.
Fret not, as there are ways to have safe travel and successful transition even during a global crisis. Here’s how to move safely amid the pandemic:
1. Check the travel guidelines
Before you even decide to move, checking the travel guidelines is the initial step to take. Of course, these vary from one country, city, or place to another. Aside from the regular requirements like a travel ticket, valid IDs, or even a passport, you may need to secure a travel pass, negative RT-PCR test result, or proof of vaccination. Be sure to check the requirements of your local authority and that of your travel destination. Obtain and prepare all the paperwork before your travel date.
2. Consider hiring a mover
It’s a good idea to hire a mover if you have tons of belongings and items to move. If you’re going to stay in a place temporarily and go back to your main abode, there’s no need to get a mover. Keep in mind, however, that moving companies offer various services and have different safety protocols. Be sure to contact them, ask what they offer, and see what works for you. If it helps, get multiple quotes as well as compare pricing and service quality before you decide.
3. Ship belongings ahead of time
If you’re looking to move to a different country, city, state, or province, it’s best to work with a land, air, or sea cargo company. Consider shipping all your belongings and possessions ahead of time. Just leave some clothes and your travel essentials. This way, you won’t have to worry about your cargo during your actual travel. Ultimately, you can have light travel where you can focus on your health and safety.
4. Sell or donate some items and belongings
When relocating to a new place, you will probably be checking all your items and belongings. These include your clothes, personal possessions, household items, furniture pieces, and even furnishings. Most likely, you’ll bring half of them with you while the rest will be tossed out. For the latter, consider either selling or donating these items. That way, they won’t get wasted.
5. Choose your travel option
At this point, you’ll be choosing your travel choice, whether by land, air, or water. Of course, this depends on your current location and your destination. If it’s travel from one country to another, you’ll most likely book a flight. The same is true for moving to another city. But if it’s just a nearby trip from one state to another, land travel will work for you. You can even drive using your own vehicle. But if you have to cross the sea, water transportation is what you need.
6. Consider health and safety measures
The actual travel is the most crucial part. You’ll have to consider your health and safety and plan on what steps to take. The most logical course of action is to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during your travel. No, you don’t necessarily have to put on a surgical mask, gloves, and gown. Wear a mask and have a hand sanitizer at your disposal. Plus, don’t forget to wash your hands as frequently as possible.
7. Other considerations
There are a few other considerations to make when moving or traveling. Here are some of these:
- Traveling with kids. Be sure to orient your kids about safety protocols during the travel. Pay close attention to them during the actual travel, as they are less cognizant.
- Traveling with pets. It’s best to hire a pet transportation service instead of having them move with you. If they travel with you, they might need your attention. Chance are you’ll put yourself at risk.
- Traveling with a family member with an underlying health condition. You must think twice before doing so. Your loved one’s health is and will always be a top priority. If you have to, consult with a health professional and ask for sound recommendations for traveling. Be sure to follow the doctor’s advice strictly.
Moving amid the pandemic doesn’t have to be daunting for you. Be sure to consider the practical recommendations discussed above. With all these key steps, you’ll have a smooth transition and successful travel. Most importantly, you’ll ensure your utmost health and safety.
