It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel tips and advice when planning a trip with your family, now more than ever. Visiting home in India is not only for fun, but also reuniting with your beloved family members. Staying conscious of the latest restrictions and requirements for international travel is essential to keeping you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Find out the best ways to keep you and your family safe while travelling and protect your loved ones back home.
Covid-19 remains an enduring global health pandemic
Despite the rising numbers of fully-vaccinated citizens across the world, many countries are still suffering from sudden Covid-19 outbreaks. Whether travelling alone or with family, you should always be aware of the infection rates of Covid-19 in your destination and consider the implications this may have on you and your travel companions. Whether domestic or international, all travel carries a potential risk of being exposed to, spreading or contracting Covid-19, especially if you’re travelling to a high-risk destination. As a conscious traveller, it’s essential to be mindful of not only yours but your loved one’s health and should not make travel plans if any of your family members are at high risk of severe illness.
How you should prepare to travel safely as a family together
Before travelling to India, it’s vital to check all requirements that you and your family may need to fulfil. This can include travel restrictions, vaccination status, quarantining and Covid-19 testing requirements in both your local area and expected destinations you’re planning to visit. Before and during your trip it’s highly advised to check the local government and Ministry of Health websites to stay updated on the latest information and changes that may disrupt your travel plans. In addition, checking ahead on options for healthcare, transportation, stopovers, food and accommodation at your planned destination would further ensure your family’s comfort and wellbeing during your trip, and ensure your journey is as hassle-free as possible.
If you are travelling with your family, here are some additional steps you can take to ensure a smooth journey:
- Make sure that you and your family are up-to-date with routine vaccination requirements and testings, including MMR vaccine, seasonal flu vaccines and RT-PCR tests before your departure
- Ensure that you and your family members passports are up-to-date and at least valid for the next 6 months from the date you plan to return home
- Be careful to bring enough medication for the entire journey for any family members who may have health issues
- Select the safest mode of transportation in advance to mitigate the risk of exposure to Covid-19 and other illnesses and limiting exposure to crowded public places, as well as frequently sanitizing your hands and maintaining social distancing where possible
- Avoid travel during the peak times and congested routes wherever possible
- Be mindful to gather in ventilated, open spaces while visiting friends or family, even for mass gatherings including weddings, pooja ceremonies or family events
- Wear a mask while travelling or visiting high-risk locations
- Follow the local public health advice and monitor symptoms if you or your family members become unwell before travelling
Being a conscious traveller and practicing good hygiene ensures the safety of both your family and the general public, and helps minimise the risk of contracting and spreading the Covid-19 virus around you.
Departing from Australia
If you’re travelling from Australia to India, it’s important to understand the risk of contracting Covid-19 in your destination. Therefore, some travel insurers currently offer limited cover for Covid-19. However, all passengers (including children) travelling to India must submit the ’Air-Suvidha Self-Declaration Form’ and present a full vaccination certificate or negative Covid-19 (RT-PCR) test report prior to departure.
Departing from India
Since July, it is no longer required for international travellers to fill the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration to enter Australia. Additionally, travellers are no longer required to provide their vaccination status to enter the country. However, depending on your transport providers and stopovers along the way, there may be additional protocols to follow and safety concerns, making it essential to check and confirm the local requirements of all your travel destinations in advance before arriving at check-in.
Over 15 years as your trustworthy travel partner, at Gaura Travel our primary goal is to reunite you with your family and loved ones and giving you a smooth and hassle-free journey to your dream destination.
See you on your next journey with us!
Sources:
Travelling with your family during covid-19
Global Covid-19 health advisory
International travel and covid-19