When it comes to your personal safety, the pandemic is likely to be at the forefront of your thinking as you return to regular business travel. But you’ll also need to be mindful of the other risks you faced before the pandemic. As it may have been some time since you last traveled regularly, now might be the right time for a reminder of some of the things you can do to keep yourself safe.
Before your trip
- Research the destination for potential risks to your health and safety and any local customs you should observe.
- Ensure you have all necessary documentation for entry, including passports, proof of health insurance, test results and vaccination certificates.
- Take both digital and hard copies of your passports, leaving one paper copy at home.
- Find out about quarantine restrictions, curfews, local laws and customs.
- Ensure you are adequately covered for medical, security and trip disruption assistance and know who to contact in an emergency.
- Pack any medication, personal protection items and clothing beyond the duration of your stay in case of disruption.
- Familiarize yourself with the latest COVID-19 measures and policies adopted by airlines, hotels and ground transportation companies.
When eating out
- Only eat food that is properly prepared and served hot, and avoid street food.
- Take extra care when drinking water, sticking to bottled water where possible, and only consume ice made from bottled or disinfected water.
- Never leave food and drinks unattended.
- Drink from sealed cans or bottles.
In the vicinity of the hotel
- Familiarize yourself with the surroundings, location, and accessibility.
- Find out about lockdowns, restrictions, curfews and other limitations on movement.
- Remember safety could be very different after dark.
- Recognize previously familiar areas may have changed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
When out and about
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds, such as protests.
- Do not wear expensive clothing and accessories, as these could attract undue attention.
- Avoid spending time consulting a map or your phone, as this may make you a target of petty crime.
- Always carry ID and know how to contact the police and other emergency services.
- Use ATMs inside a bank or hotel, avoiding those with street access.
- Take extra care when visiting government buildings, as these could be terrorism targets. Religious and other institutions may also be targets.
- Be alert when crossing the street, especially in countries where people drive on the opposite side to what you’re accustomed to.