Travelling by air is fast, convenient and safe, with the vast majority of passengers reaching their destinations safely and without harmful health effects. However, there are safety precautions you should take when travelling by air:
- Research about the country you are visiting.
- Call the hotel before you get there about the accommodation.
At the airport:
- Stay especially alert and watch your bags and laptop/gadgets carefully.
- Don’t let anyone, but uniformed airline employees handle your bags.
- Watch out for staged mishaps, like someone bumping into you or spilling a drink. Often it’s a ploy to divert your attention.
- Carry your purse close to your body, or your wallet in an inside front pocket. Better yet, wear a money pouch under your clothes.
- Keep a separate record of the substances inside of checked luggage, also, keep anything of value in a carry-on that stays with you.
- Avoid displaying expensive cameras, jewelry, and luggage that might draw attention
General tips:
- Research the health-related conditions in the country you are visiting.
- Allow ample time to check in and reach your departure gate.
- Always carry your medication with you in your carry-on luggage.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes that have been worn previously as you are sure of its convenience.
- Delay your trip if you are not well.
- Seek the Advice of your physician if you have any questions before traveling.
- Keep any drugs in your hand luggage. This is especially important for drugs that you might need to use during your journey. Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic drink both before and during your flight
When traveling with your children:
- Allow your family extra amount of time to get through the security checks especially if you have younger children.
- Talk to your children about security screening process before arriving at the airport. Let them know that their bags must be inspected by the X-ray machine and would be returned to them.
- Discuss the fact that they are not allowed to make a joke of safety-related threats.
- Pack a bag of toys and snacks to keep your child occupied during the flight.
- Arrange to have a car safety seat at your destination or bring yours along. Ensure each child has her own seat and is safely buckled up during the flight
- Have children wear shoes and outer layers of clothing outfit that are easy to take off for security screening. Note that children younger than 12 years are not required to remove their shoes for routine screening.
