The COVID-19 outbreak has ushered in significant changes to the way we travel. If you’re planning a vacation in Europe, these tips will help you navigate this new traveling reality:
- Before locking in your flight, check if any travel restrictions or bans apply — in both your origin and destination. Get the latest updates by checking government websites.
- When you pass through airport screening, do not remove your face mask. You will be asked to lower it briefly to verify your identity. Travelers who refuse to wear a face mask may face civil penalties and may also be denied boarding.
- Avoid handing your boarding pass (paper or electronic) directly to a TSA officer. Rather, position the pass on the scanner and then hold it up for inspection.
- TSA is now allowing passengers to take one container of hand sanitizer, up to 12 oz (350 ml) in size, in carry-on luggage. This will need to be removed from your bag for scanning.
- Empty your personal items from your pocket, like your wallet, coins and keys, and place them in your carry-on rather than into bins. This will reduce handling during the screening process.
- If you’re bringing food on the plane with you, put it in a clear plastic bag and then into a scanning bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA officer will need to handle your food container or carry-on bag for closer inspection.