If you’re headed on a local business trip during Level 3 of the South African COVID-19 lockdown, chances are you’re feeling a little nervous. At TravelManor, we understand all too well. We’re assisting many of our valued clients to prepare for their first lockdown journeys at the moment. What we’ve found is that the whole idea of boarding an aeroplane during a pandemic is much less nerve-wracking when you feel prepared.
To this end, we’ve made a list of 5 must-haves you need to pack in your carry-on when you travel locally for business during a lockdown. This includes:
Start with the basics - pack your personal protective equipment, i.e. your mask and/or face shield. You will be required to wear one at all times from the moment you enter the airport, and we recommend taking extras just in case. Please note: wearing gloves is not necessary and actually actively discouraged since it can lead to self-contamination when not used properly.
Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitiser and wet wipes to keep your hands and immediate environment clean. South African domestic airlines have stringent hygiene measures in place, but if you’re feeling nervous about the virus, added precautions on your part will provide some added peace of mind.
Local airlines will not be offering in-flight magazines at this time. As such, it’s recommended that you bring your own reading material to stay occupied during your flight.
Likewise, no meals or snacks will be served on domestic flights during Level 3. If you’re travelling at mealtime, or usually get hungry on a flight, pack simple, easy-to-eat snacks that you can enjoy without the need for a microwave or kettle. Also keep in mind that you are in close quarters with your fellow flyers, so steer clear of strong-smelling foods like hard-boiled eggs, tuna or sushi. Our top picks include simple sandwiches, fruit, nuts, yoghurt or biltong.
Well, technically these would be on your phone and not in your carry-on per se, but you know what we mean. Consider downloading apps like SnapScan that will allow you to make contactless payments throughout your journey, as well as your preferred airline’s app so you present a digital boarding pass rather than handling a printed one.
Having these five travel essentials on hand when you board the plane for a Level 3 business flight is bound to make the experience a lot less stressful. If you’d like some more information on booking flights and organising business itineraries at this time, feel free to reach out to a member of the TravelManor team. In the meantime, keep an eye on the blog in the coming weeks and months for more expert insight into embracing the new normal when it comes to South African business travel.
