Planning to head overseas for a white Christmas this holiday season? While it’s exciting to be able to visit family and friends again, it’s important to remember that COVID-19 is still a risk globally.
COVID-19 case numbers are increasing in the northern hemisphere as winter approaches. The World Health Organization has also warned of a potential rise in influenza cases.
To ensure a safe trip for you and your loved ones, there are a few simple steps you can take:
- Check your vaccinations are up to date, including for COVID-19 and the flu.
- Read the travel advice for your destinations, including any transit locations.
- Understand the COVID-19 restrictions for your destinations, if there are any.
- Be prepared for travel delays or disruptions. A rise in COVID-19 cases can lead to travel industry staff shortages.
- Get travel insurance and read the fine print. Make sure it provides cover for COVID-19.
- Research the health care available in your destinations. Be prepared for health facilities to be under strain.
- Practice physical distancing where possible. Be mindful that crowded indoor spaces have poor ventilation; wear a mask if you can.
- Understand that travel advice can change at short notice; subscribe for updates to your destinations so you're alerted if the situation changes.
If you’re unvaccinated, you should reconsider your need to travel due to the health risks of contracting COVID-19 while overseas.
Understand what the Australian Government can and can’t do if you get sick while overseas. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can and can’t help.
Read more
- Read our global COVID-19 health advisory
- Get your international COVID-19 vaccination certificate
- Read our CHOICE travel insurance buying guide