If you’re traveling home after quarantining in a different state during the coronavirus pandemic, or booking a business trip as companies get back to work, you’re probably concerned about how to stay safe while traveling.  Whether you’re worried about germ exposure in the taxicab, at the airport, or in flight, there are extra precautions that you can take to protect yourself during this unprecedented time.

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

1. Utilize Personal Electronic Devices

Avoid making contact with devices in airports, like check-in stations. Check in for your flight in advance using your smartphone, laptop, or home computer. Download the airline’s smartphone app, so you can scan your mobile boarding pass at the gate.

When purchasing items in the airport, like snacks and beverages, it’s best to use a virtual wallet and pay with your phone. This eliminates shared contact with credit cards and scanners.

2. Avoid Security Bins

When going through the security line, it’s normal to unload your belongings into a security bin. Avoid the bins altogether by putting your items inside your carry-on bag before passing it through X-ray. This will prevent cross-contamination from touching multiple containers that others have used. By not having to restack bins, it will also make it quicker to retrieve your bag and continue to your gate.

3. Wash Your Hands

Make a conscious effort to wash your hands often while traveling. Touching items like the overhead air vent, seatback pockets, and tray table can all lead to germ exposure. Bring along a travel pack of sanitizer wipes to wipe down armrests.

If you don’t want to get up, or you’re in a taxicab on your way to the hotel, use hand sanitizer to quickly disinfect your hands and avoid touching your face.

4. Cover Your Face

An easy way to avoid touching your face is to wear a mask. Many airlines now require passengers to wear a mask in-flight. Even if it’s not enforced, you may wish to use one for added peace of mind. You may also need to wear it in the taxicab or while using public areas of the hotel. If you aren’t comfortable with a mask, try wrapping a scarf or bandana around your mouth and nose instead.

If you’re flying into or leaving from Lincoln Airport or Omaha Eppley Airfield, you can count on the courteous drivers at OMALiNK Airport Shuttle Charter & Town Car Service in Lincoln, NE, to help you reach your destination safely. This town car service provides reliable airport transportation, including taxicabs and airport shuttles, to help you avoid ride-share services and enjoy a safer journey. Visit their website for more information, or call (402) 475-5465 to schedule an appointment.