North Dayton Holidays

The COVID-19 outbreak may have changed the way we travel, but it hasn't deterred our enthusiasm for exploring. Here are some tips on how to deal with the new challenges of travelling:

• Before booking anything, find out if any travel restrictions apply — in both your destination and origin. Keep informed with the latest updates by reviewing government travel advisories.
• When you go through airport checkpoints, do not remove your face mask. You will be required to briefly lower it for ID purposes. Those who refuse to wear a mask may face civil penalties and may also be escorted from the terminal.
• Rather than handing a TSA agent your boarding pass, position it directly on the reader yourself. Once that's done, hold it up for inspection.
• TSA now permits passengers to take one container of hand sanitizer, up to 12 oz (350 ml) in size, in carry-on baggage. This will need to be removed from your bag at the X-ray machine for scanning.
• Remove items from your pocket, such as your small change and phone, and place them in your carry-on rather than the bins. This will reduce handling during the screening process.
• Separate any food you have for screening. Placing it in a clear plastic bag and into a bin reduces the need for a TSA employee to handle and inspect your belongings.

While flying in a pandemic can be nerve-wracking, airlines are working hard to protect the well-being of their passengers and staff. Here are a few carriers that have implemented changes:

• American Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Delta - this airline is known for electrostatic cleaning and cleaning with disinfectant.
• United Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.