YORK, Pa. — Earlier this week, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf lifted all travel restrictions for Pennsylvania as COVID-19 numbers continue to drop across the commonwealth.
But even though the restrictions are gone, COVID-19 is still here, and it's still a risk you need to assess as you book a long-awaited vacation.
FOX43's Trenice Bishop spoke with Edyta Satchell, a corporate travel expert with Satchell Global Travel Wellness, for some tips on how to travel safely in a COVID-19 world.
"It's not the same as it was before," says Satchell, who has traveled for business and pleasure during the pandemic. "But once you know how to do it, you will have that peace of mind. You will travel with confidence, and you will know what to do next. Every other trip will become easier and easier."
For those planning their first vacation in the COVID-19 world, Satchell recommends starting small, with a road trip or a short flight.
"If you want to enjoy different climates, look at Florida, look at Hawaii -- look at places within the U.S., where you medical coverage is there," she says.
If you just have to leave the country, Satchell suggests finding a destination in the Caribbean. It's close to home, so your flight won't take long, she says.
"People don't want to spend 10 hours on the plane," says Satchell. "They're looking for shorter flights that get them to a sun and fun destination much faster."
When you plan your trip, do your research, Satchell says. You should know what if any restrictions there are at your destination. You should know the destination's refund policies.
"You want to be able to have the peace of mind and know you can change the date without any penalties," she says.
You should also make sure your packing list reflects the new, COVID-19 world. It should include face coverings, hand sanitizer, a thermometer -- and food.
Many restaurants and airport lounges are still closed, Satchell says, so a traveler should be prepared with some snacks.
If you're traveling by plane, Satchell says, it's important to be aware of what she calls "contamination zones."
Zone No. 1 is anything in front of you when you're seated, she says. That includes anything you can touch, like the computer screen on the seat in front of you or in-flight magazines.
Zone No. 2 is anything behind you, like the door handles and faucets in the rest room.
Zone No. 3 is anything above you, like the air conditioner knob, flight attendant call buttons, or the overhead storage compartment.
Make sure you have sanitizing wipes within reach, to make sure those areas are as clean and safe as possible, Satchell says.
"I've done it myself -- used sanitizing wipes on the contamination zones," she says. "I may look like the crazy lady, but I want to make sure I'm traveling safely."