Shire of Longreach Vacations

The COVID-19 outbreak has changed how we travel, but it hasn't halted our zeal for exploring. Here are some tips on how to handle the new challenges of traveling:

• Know what, if any, restrictions or rules apply to both your origin and destination. You may not be able to travel depending on local circumstances, so remember to check before you lock in your flight.
• Wear a face mask even during airport screening. A TSA officer will require you to lower your mask temporarily for identification purposes.
• Rather than handing a TSA agent your boarding pass, position it straight on the scanner yourself. When that's done, hold it up for inspection.
• You can take one container of hand sanitizer up to 12 oz (350 ml) in your carry-on bag. You'll need to remove it for screening.
• Put any personal items (keys, wallet and phone) in your carry-on rather than a bin to minimize handling during screening.
• If you want to take food on board, put it in a clear plastic bag and then into a screening bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA employee will need to touch your carry-on bag or food container for inspection.

As part of the "new normal" due to the global pandemic, many airlines have introduced social distancing and other precautionary measures. A couple of these carriers are listed below:

• Qantas - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Rex Regional Express - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.