Puget Island Vacations

COVID-19 has changed the way we travel, but it hasn't stifled our zest for exploring. Here are some tips on how to cope with travel's new challenges:

• Before locking in your flight, check if any travel restrictions apply — in both your origin and destination. Get the latest updates by reviewing government websites.
• You must wear a face mask at the airport, even at screening checkpoints. Be prepared to lower your mask for ID verification when asked by a TSA officer.
• To reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination, position your boarding pass on the reader yourself and then hold it up for inspection. Do not hand your pass directly to a TSA officer.
• TSA now permits passengers to take one container of hand sanitizer, up to 12 oz (350 ml) in size, in carry-on bags. This will have to be removed from your bag at the X-ray machine for screening.
• To minimize handling during the screening process, place items such as your keys, wallet, phone and belt into your carry-on instead of the bins.
• Separate any food you have for X-ray screening. Food items often trigger the alarm. Putting them in a clear plastic bag and into a bin reduces the need for a TSA agent to handle and inspect your belongings.

While traveling during an ongoing pandemic has its challenges, airlines are doing their bit to protect the well-being of customers and crew. Here are a few carriers that have implemented changes:

• Alaska Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Delta - this airline is known for electrostatic cleaning and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Southwest Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.