As the school year is coming close to an end and summer is approaching fast, a lot of people are planning to take a vacation. However, due to COVID-19, new procedures and guidelines have been put in place for travelers. In fact, the CDC has recommended not traveling during this time due to possible exposure to the virus in airports, hotels, etc. However, if you do plan on traveling this year during the summer break, here are a few things you should know ahead of time before booking tickets.

Ever since the virus’s spike in the U.S., the European Union confirmed that they are banning most countries from traveling to their countries. The only countries that are not included in this list are Australia, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, Thailand, and South Korea.

However, that doesn’t mean that every country is restricting traveling during the pandemic. Some countries are currently allowing tourism, but there are specific sets of guidelines that need to be followed if you’re planning to visit a country that does not restrict travel.

Before you board a flight, you are required to have a negative COVID-19 test. Besides packing clothes and hygiene items, it is also recommended to pack some hand sanitizer and spare masks. If you’re willing to increase the chances of not spreading the virus, then it is also highly recommended to get fully vaccinated (some vaccines require two doses). While you are traveling, always wash your hands, avoid crowds, and keep your mask on!

Whenever you plan on returning back to the country, you have to take a COVID test with negative results a few days before your departure. Once you are back home, it is still necessary to take a viral test and isolate yourself until your results come back as negative. Until then, continue to follow safety guidelines for the sake of your own health and others.