Are you thinking of travelling again? If so, your next journey may look a little different from pre-pandemic times. Here are three tips that will make your journey safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable:

Consider using a travel agent

Given that it can be hard to keep up with quickly changing travel advisories for various destinations, vaccination and testing requirements, not to mention last-minute flight changes, a qualified travel agent can advise you on a myriad of travel issues. They can recommend the right travel and health insurance, accessible and safe accommodation, as well as senior discounts.*

Pack smart

You may consider leaving behind heavy checked baggage and instead opting for lightweight carry-on, helping you to avoid the loss or delay of checked luggage. You may also consider packing light, quick-drying clothing for easy laundering in a hotel sink.

At the same time, keep medications and travel documents in a separate purse or small bag that never leaves your side, in case the airline is over capacity and requires last-minute checking of carry-ons.

If you have do have to travel with checked baggage and are worried about soaring lost-bag rates, some experts advise using an electronic GPS tracker, a tiny device that can be placed inside luggage. Knowing the exact location of your bags is as easy as checking your phone.*

And don’t forget to pack a supply of N95 or equivalent face masks, tissues, a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and a thermometer to check your temperature if you feel ill.*

Patience isn’t just a virtue, it’s a necessity

“Pack your patience.” This is one of the most oft-repeated pieces of advice from travel experts right now.* Be prepared for airport lineups, including check-in (which you should do online in advance, if you can), and security. This may require arriving early and standing for prolonged periods of time, so, if mobility or health issues are a concern, be sure to contact the airline when you book to arrange for assistance.

Finally, besides patience, planning is even more important now. There are numerous resources to help you do that, including the Canadian Government travel site, which gives timely advisory updates and allows you to register as a Canadian abroad.*