We’ve put together five key tips for traveling around the world today, excluding country-specific restrictions, which are not listed here.
1 Get Travel Insurance
The pandemic has completely changed travel habits. If buying travel insurance was once an afterthought, it’s now one of the first things to do before setting off. Awareness of our health’s importance has grown enormously since the pandemic. Getting travel insurance isn’t just a practical step—it’s a way to protect yourself and loved ones who may travel with you. Especially since, outside of Italy, the healthcare system is not like the one you’re used to. Medical care often comes with a high price tag.
2 Carry the European Green Pass
Many countries now require you to show the EU Digital COVID Certificate on arrival. The European Green Pass is available in digital or paper format, issued by the Italian Ministry of Health. It includes a QR Code for authentication. The Green Pass is needed in Italy too, for places like cinemas, restaurants, events, and museums. So, before traveling, always check entry requirements for your destination and, if the Green Pass is needed, make sure you have it ready to show.
3 How Early Should You Arrive at the Airport?
Pandemic rules have changed long-established routines. Previously, arriving an hour before a domestic flight was enough, but not anymore. In truth, stricter security after major terrorist incidents had already led to longer lines. Now, COVID-related checks add extra time at the airport. It’s always wise to follow the practical advice on when to arrive for your flight, but remember to factor in both standard and COVID checks at check-in.
4 Traveling to the United Kingdom
Since January 1, 2021, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) is no longer part of the European Union. This Brexit shift has changed travel requirements. While rules for pet passports remain the same, travelers to the UK must now use a biometric passport—an ID card alone is no longer enough. At present, you don’t need a visa, unlike with the USA, but this could change in the future.
5 Documents Needed to Enter the US
The United States remained closed to visitors from March 2020 until early November 2021—halting most long-haul trips. The good news is that travel has resumed, but in addition to vaccine and testing requirements, travelers also need other documents like the ESTA—a kind of travel authorization (not a visa) that should be obtained before departure. You can handle US travel paperwork yourself or consult a specialized agency. Make sure you start preparing documents well in advance, as some may take time.
