Bell Island Vacations

COVID-19 may have changed how we travel, but it hasn't stopped our enthusiasm for exploring. Here are a few tips on how to cope with travel's new challenges:

• Before locking in your flight, see if any travel restrictions apply — in both your destination and origin. Keep informed with the latest updates by checking government websites.
• Keep your face mask on even during airport screening. A TSA officer will require you to temporarily lower your mask for ID purposes.
• You're no longer required to hand your boarding pass (paper or electronic) directly to a TSA officer. Rather, you should place the pass on the reader and then 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 luggage. This will need to be removed from your bag and presented for screening.
• To minimize handling during screening, put items such as your keys, wallet, phone and belt into your carry-on rather than the bins.
• Transport all food items in a clear plastic bag and also place them in a screening bin. Keeping food separate from your carry-on means it's less likely a TSA employee will need to touch and open your bag for inspection.

While traveling during a pandemic can be nerve-wracking, airlines have gone above and beyond to ensure the well-being of their passengers and staff. These are some carriers that have introduced changes:

• Air Canada - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• WestJet - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and electrostatic cleaning.
• PAL Airlines - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and providing passenger masks.