Temecula Valley Wine Country Holidays

The COVID-19 outbreak has changed the way we travel, but it hasn't stifled our eagerness for exploring. Here are some tips on how to deal with travel's new challenges:

• Before you lock in a flight, check if any travel restrictions or bans apply — in both your origin and destination. Stay informed with the latest updates by reviewing official government websites.
• When you pass through airport screening, keep your face mask on. You will be required to lower it briefly to confirm your identity. Anyone refusing to wear a face mask may face civil penalties and may also be denied boarding.
• To reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination, place your boarding pass on the reader yourself and then hold it up for inspection. Do not hand your pass directly to a TSA agent.
• 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 and submitted for screening.
• Remove personal items from your pockets, such as your small change and phone, and put them in your carry-on rather than the bins. This will reduce handling during the screening process.
• If you're planning to take food through security screening, put it in a clear plastic bag and then into a screening bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA employee will need to handle your food container or carry-on bag for inspection.

While flying in the middle of a pandemic can be a challenging experience, airlines are doing their bit to protect the well-being of passengers and crew. Here are a few carriers that have introduced changes:

• Southwest Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Alaska Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• United Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.