While we’re waiting and hoping for provincial travel to open up, now is the perfect time to book and plan those bucket list South African gems you've been meaning to explore. The foreseeable future of travel looks very different to how it did pre-lockdown. Ensure you are prepared.

The Flight Centre Associates team shares this approved advice on how you can travel South Africa safely when we're next able to travel.

Travelling to the airport

When travelling to the airport, on public transport or in your Uber, wear your face mask, open the windows and handle your luggage yourself.

At the airport

Don’t risk being rushed or missing your flight because you haven't made provision for the extra time needed to pass through all the new health and safety checks. Expect longer queues and practise patience.

Temperatures will be taken before you're even allowed to enter the terminal building and only travellers, with valid tickets and necessary documentation, will be allowed to enter terminal buildings.

Use mobile boarding passes instead of getting them printed at the airport. You’ll be required to scan your boarding pass when going through security and at the boarding gates. Show your ID documentation to airport personnel but don't hand it over. You'll also need to pack your luggage yourself into the security trays. 

Boarding your flight

As with transiting the airport, know that the boarding and check-in process will take longer. Airports and airlines have implemented stringent protocols to minimise the number of the people in the terminal and onboard (such as strategically seating passengers) and enforce social distancing.

Avoid touching surfaces wherever possible. Research has shown that onboard transmission of the virus is low. Airlines have implemented rigorous cleaning between each flight; disinfecting the cabin and frequently touched surfaces with approved disinfectants in line with World Health Organisation protocols. But it certainly doesn't hurt to wipe down surfaces again.

Mask wearing is compulsory in all public spaces, including in your airport transfer, at the airport and during the entire flight.

At your accommodation

The hospitality industry has implemented some of the most stringent health and safety protocols to ensure customer and staff safety.

Here’s what you can expect from your hotel stay:

• Temperature scans upon entering premises and compulsory hand sanitiser.
• Complete and sign a health questionnaire.
• Staff training on COVID 19 preventative measures with educational signage for staff and guests.
• PPE for staff where necessary.
• Social distancing in public areas.
• No more buffet.
• Dining areas allowing for social distancing (at least 1.5 metres) and limited to a maximum number of people at any given time (currently 50 people maximum).
• Guests are encouraged to opt for room service if they feel more comfortable doing so.

General travel advice

Your FCA travel expert will be able to advise on necessary regulations and protocols relating to your travels. Be sure to check in with them again before travelling as government regulations are subject to change at short notice.

• Do not travel without comprehensive travel insurance, even on a local trip.

• Plan ahead. Pre-book accommodation and have a confirmed itinerary.

• Check what facilities, parks and attractions are open. Be sure to confirm opening hours to avoid disappointment.

Your pandemic travel list

• Hand sanitiser and alcohol wipes, ensuring the alcohol content is above 60%.

• Reusable face mask plus a spare, as well as a small packet of laundry detergent to wash the mask after each use.

• Pen - expect to have to sign a few more forms, health questionnaires, hotel check-in forms, etc. than before.

Are you travelling for business?

*Essential business travel is currently allowed for intra and interprovincial travel. Don't forget your documentation. Business travellers need a travel permit on company letterhead, signed by all parties, to access the airport terminal building. If you don't have the necessary permits, you won't be allowed to access the airport, let alone board the flight.

If you need to travel for MICE, be sure to contact your dedicated FCA Events and Incentives expert to assist with all aspects of your MICE travel, from booking to take-off.

*As of July 13 July 2020, only essential business travel is permitted. Overnight stays for intraprovincial leisure travel is not currently allowed according to Government regulations.