Lochalsh Vacations

The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed how we travel, but it hasn't dampened our enthusiasm for exploring. Here are a few tips on how to deal with the new challenges of traveling:

• Before locking in your flight, check if any travel bans or restrictions apply — in both your destination and origin. Get the latest updates by checking government and airport websites.
• When you go through airport checkpoints, keep your face mask on. You will be required to briefly lower it for ID purposes. Travelers who refuse to wear a face mask may face civil penalties and may also be escorted from the terminal.
• Avoid handing your boarding pass directly to a TSA employee. Instead, position the pass on the reader and then hold it up for the agent to visually inspect it.
• You are now permitted to take one container of hand sanitizer up to 12 oz (350 ml) in your carry-on bag. You'll have to remove it for X-ray screening.
• Place any personal items (like your phone, wallet and keys) in your carry-on instead of a bin to reduce handling during the screening process.
• If you're planning to take food on the plane with you, place it in a clear plastic bag and then into a scanning bin. This lessens the likelihood that a TSA agent will need to touch your carry-on bag or food container for closer inspection.

While traveling during a pandemic has its challenges, airlines have gone above and beyond to protect the well-being of all on board. Here are a few carriers that have implemented changes:

• EasyJet - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and providing passenger masks.
• KLM - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• British Airways - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.