The new travel essential: the face mask. How can we make sure our kids are keeping them on? If you are travelling during COVID, it’s a good idea to give this some thought. Even if you haven’t planned for travel, it’s probably wise to be prepared. As this American article highlights, policies regarding face masks could differ. We live in an area that has experienced limited cases and restrictions, which has allowed me to be a bit lax on getting masks for our family. We’ll be making masks this weekend as a fun creative project. Breathable cotton, adjustable straps, a fun superhero superhero print and allowing your little one to choose their mask are tips shared in this article.
This article provides some great insight as to what to expect flying in America, but what about Australia? Qantas’ Fly Well page “strongly recommends” wearing a face mask, and stipulates that those flying “to, from or within” Victoria are required to wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth if they are 12 or older or have a medical condition.
Qantas have stricter rules for Victorian travel. “When travelling from or within Victoria, you'll need to wear your mask as soon as you enter the airport and also inflight. When travelling to Victoria, you'll need to wear your mask during boarding and inflight.” Qantas advises customers to familiarise themselves with government requirements that apply in Victoria as soon as passengers disembark. At the time of writing, the government information that Qantas link to advises that children under 12 are not required to wear a face mask but are required to carry a face covering with them at all times.
Qantas provide a “fly well” pack at the gate (mask and sanitising wipes) and ask that anyone “feeling unwell and experiencing COVID-19 symptoms” in the week prior to flying do not fly and contact Qantas regarding options.
Jetstar’s website shares the same policies and procedures, however the airlines differ in their approach to handling delays/cancellations to travel. Jetstar offer an option to purchase FareCredit for flights within and between Australia and New Zealand. FareCredit allows you to obtain a credit voucher for your flight and in-flight extras if you need to cancel your booking.
Virgin encourages use of mask and sanitiser, and both are provided on board. Virgin has gone cashless onboard (as has Jetsar).
Of course these policies could change at any time with new developments throughout the pandemic. If you have to fly during COVID, it is wise to be as prepared as possible and continue to check for advice updates.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
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