fit for travel fsme

• Gesund Reisen App
• TropenFit.de Shop
• Tropeninstitut.de
• Ihr Reiseziel

Wählen Sie hier Ihr Reiseziel aus und Sie erhalten Informationen zu Impfvorschriften, Reiseimpfungen, der Malaria-Situation und anderen Infektionsrisiken, dem Schutz vor Moskitos, aktuellen Ländermeldungen sowie die Anschrift der dortigen Vertretung und Botschaft.

1   . Länderauswahl direkt über die Weltkarte / "Ihr Reiseziel"     oder      

2   . länderauswahl über die anfangsbuchstaben a-z.

This website requires cookies. Please accept or refuse these cookies first. For more info about our cookies, please read our cookies policy .

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination

FSME-IMMUN 0.5 ml ® protects against tick-borne encephalitis . A lower dose (FSME-IMMUN 0.25 ml Junior®) is used for children aged 1 to 16 years.

When is vaccination recommended?

If you travel to an area where tick-borne encephalitis is frequent

• and you plan many outdoor activities during a tick season, such as camping, trekking, hunting or hiking
• or will be staying there for an extended period or regularly 

Vaccination plan

• month 1 (to 3)
• 5 to 12 months after the second dose 
• Accelerated schedule : if there is not enough time, the second dose may be given 14 days after the first.
• First booster vaccination after 3 years.
• The second booster vaccination takes place after 5 to 10 years (or after 3 years for people aged 60 years and older).

Period of protection

• The first two doses offer temporary protection.
• The third dose ensures protection for a period of 3 years.

Additional information for doctors

• Advice HCH vaccination against TBE 

No connection? Don't worry.

Download our free app and access all your travel information offline.

Fit For Travel

Health certificates and recovery letters for your trip..

Are you in need of a health certificate (fit to travel certificate or recovery letter) for your journey? We take care of it for you.

About Fit For Travel

Fit For Travel issues Fit To Travel certificates and recovery letters to anyone in need of one.

There are countries that require such a certificate - besides a negative PCR test - in order to be allowed to enter. For some countries a PCR test is not required for their own residents. In such cases a "fit to travel" certificate will be sufficient in order to travel. In the Netherlands unfortunately, a physician is not allowed to issue health certificates for their own patients.

In other cases a recovery letter is needed. We issue those as well (based on a positive test result)

We take care of your certificate

It is possible that after filling in the online questionnaire, you still need a (possible virtual) consultation, before a certificate is issued.

Applying for a Fit to Travel Certificate

Applying for a fit to travel certificate is easy. Read below what steps you should take. For questions, please contact us .

Questionnaire

Fill in the online questionnaire with a few medical questions. After this you can pay immediately.

A physician checks your answers and decides whether a consultation is needed and if a certificate is issued.

Certificate via email

The day before your departure, you will receive your certificate via email. You can print it and take it with you.

A Fit For Travel certificate or recovery letter costs €40,- including taxes.

In case you have any questions, remarks or concerns about Fit For Travel, please contact us via [email protected] or +31 20 210 1431 .

Address Wim Meilinkhof 1 1187 TP Amstelveen

CoC 27376527

Privacy statement

[email protected]

+31 20 210 1431

'Fit for Travel' is the NHS public access website providing travel health information for people travelling abroad from the UK. The website is compiled and updated by a team of experts from the Travel Medicine Division at the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health. There is a searchable map giving details of immunisations needed for each country.

gy luxury yachts

Understanding FIT in the Travel Industry

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to understanding the term FIT in the travel industry. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of FIT, its significance, and how it impacts the travel sector.

What is FIT?

FIT stands for Free Independent Traveler or Free Independent Tourist. It refers to a type of travel arrangement where individuals or small groups plan their trips independently without the help of a traditional tour operator. FIT travelers have the freedom to customize their itineraries, choose their accommodations, and select their preferred modes of transportation.

Characteristics of FIT Travelers

• Prefer flexibility and autonomy in their travel plans
• Seek authentic and personalized travel experiences
• Enjoy exploring destinations at their own pace
• May have specific interests or hobbies they wish to pursue during their trips
• Value convenience and efficiency in travel arrangements

Key Elements of FIT Travel

When planning FIT travel, individuals or groups typically focus on the following key elements:

• Transportation: FIT travelers have the flexibility to choose their modes of transportation, whether it's by air, train, car rental, or other means.
• Accommodation: They can select the type of lodging that suits their preferences and budget, ranging from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals and boutique accommodations.
• Activities: FIT travelers can design their itineraries based on their interests, whether it's exploring cultural sites, engaging in outdoor adventures, or enjoying culinary experiences.
• Dining: They have the freedom to dine at local restaurants, street food stalls, or upscale eateries based on their culinary preferences.
• Sightseeing: FIT travelers can visit popular attractions, off-the-beaten-path locations, or hidden gems according to their preferences.

Advantages of FIT Travel

There are several advantages to choosing FIT travel over traditional group tours:

• Freedom to create a personalized itinerary
• Flexibility to make last-minute changes to travel plans
• Ability to explore destinations at your own pace
• Opportunity to immerse yourself in local cultures and communities
• Customization of travel experiences based on individual preferences

Challenges of FIT Travel

While FIT travel offers numerous benefits, there are also some challenges to consider:

• Need for extensive research and planning
• Responsibility for making all travel arrangements
• Potential language barriers in foreign destinations
• Higher costs compared to packaged tours in some cases
• Lack of group dynamics and social interactions

Impact of FIT on the Travel Industry

FIT travel has significantly influenced the travel industry in various ways:

• Increased demand for personalized travel experiences
• Growth of online booking platforms and travel apps
• Diversification of accommodation options to cater to individual preferences
• Expansion of experiential tourism offerings, such as cultural immersions and adventure activities
• Development of niche travel services targeting specific interests and demographics

In conclusion, FIT travel has emerged as a popular choice for individuals and small groups seeking personalized and authentic travel experiences. By offering flexibility, autonomy, and customization, FIT travel has transformed the way people explore destinations and engage with different cultures. While there are challenges associated with independent travel planning, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, making FIT an attractive option for modern travelers.

Upgrade Your Account

Select currency... eur €2.75/month (free 7-day trial) gbp £2.30/month (free 7-day trial) inr ₹199/month (free 7-day trial) usd $2.99/month (free 7-day trial).

• Unlimited Custom Itineraries for Trips up to 20 Days See Example
• Full access to extra itinerary information
• Customized Restaurant Lists For Your Itineraries
• Private Itineraries
• No Advertisements
• Standard Customer Support

Select Currency... EUR €4.49/month (Free 7-Day Trial) GBP £3.99/month (Free 7-Day Trial) INR ₹299/month (Free 7-Day Trial) USD $4.99/month (Free 7-Day Trial)

• Unlimited Custom Itineraries for Trips up to 30 Days See Example
• Latest AI For The Most Up To Date Info (As of April 2023)
• Priority Customer Support

"This is so awesome! We hired a travel agent for $200 and your AI just spit out almost exactly the same itinerary the agent planned for our honeymoon in Greece!"

"This is super cool. I did three days in a relatively small town, and it came up with a nice sounding trip (relaxation focused)."

- Redditor StillKickinginAZ

"This is incredible"

- Jenny Turner

Need a holiday gift idea?

What do you want to do?

Upcoming trips, see where we are going.

About Fit 4 Adventure

Fit 4 Adventure plans active vacations. ‍ Think one-of-a-kind experiences in spectacular locations where you travel with people who enjoy a physically challenging trip...but also appreciate a comfy place to stay and yummy meal (often home-cooked) at the end of an epic day outside. We love all things active & outdoors ... running, hiking, yoga, kayaking & canoeing, snow skiing, snow shoeing, cycling, scuba diving & snorkeling.   Join us! ​

What our travelers are saying

Our latest blog posts.

join our email list

We'll fill you in on new trips, booking deadlines and after hour events.

Fit 4 Adventure helps you explore the world, while meeting like-minded fitness enthusiasts who share your passion for one-of-a-kind experiences. From cycling in Spain to skiing in Colorado, our itineraries are equal parts fitness and fun. Fit 4 Adventure also works with groups looking for custom holidays. With us, you’re not simply booking a trip — you’re signing up for an adventure.

Have you ever heard the term Fully Independent Traveler (FIT)?

What is a fully independent traveler?

What are other acceptable uses of this term , what are the features of fully independent travellers, is the fit segment interesting for tour operators and travel agencies, how can tour operators and travel agencies target fits.

Most people see emerging technologies as the number one factor that keeps transforming the tourism industry . While this is true, another important piece of the industry’s transformation puzzle is the travelers themselves . The needs of travelers are constantly shifting, and brand-new traveler segments emerge on a regular basis. 

One of these segments is fully independent travelers .

Tour operators and travel agencies see many opportunities in this segment of travelers . Should you focus on it as well or continue – business as usual? There is only one way to answer that question. You need more information on this type of traveler. Let’s see what a fully independent traveler is, what makes them unique, and work our way towards whether this is an exciting option for you and how to target independent travelers.

Fully independent travelers (or FIT) is a term that stems from independent foreign tours. The independent foreign tour is no longer used, and you will often find these tourists addressed as FITs. The F in this acronym stands for ‘fully.’ 

But what is a fully independent traveler then? While the concept of a traveler encompasses all kinds of travelers, it’s most often used to describe people who enjoy mass tourism and holiday packages . They don’t mind using the products that somebody else created for them, including complete travel and stay arrangements.

FITs are entirely different from your standard travelers . They don’t find mass tourism and holiday package offers particularly attractive. In fact, they are not interested in them at all. They have a more individualistic approach to travel.  

The definition of FIT goes like this:

“FIT is a person who travels completely independently and free of a tour operator and travel agency assistance.”

In other words, a FIT manages and arranges the itinerary according to their needs and preferences. It includes everything ranging from transportation arrangements and hotel stay to excursions and sightseeing. 

Today, FIT is a common term in the tourism industry. However, there are still many people that use it interchangeably with other terms. Different terms should not confuse you as they all refer to the same thing – a fully independent traveler. The best way to avoid confusion is to get familiar with all other terms commonly used in the industry.  

Here is a complete list of other acceptations of this term:

• Free Independent Traveler;
• Free Independent Tourist;
• Fully Independent Traveler;
• Foreign Independent Traveler;
• Foreign Independent Tourist;
• Frequent Independent Traveler;
• Flexible Independent Travel;
• Frequent Individual Traveler.

Now that you know what FIT is and all the synonyms you can potentially encounter online and when networking, let’s see what makes FITs unique. Or, in other words, the behavior, needs, expectations, and wants of FITs.

We’ve already established that FITs work out their itineraries independently and arrange travel plans to reflect their unique needs. They also don’t travel on group tours. But is there anything more that these travelers share in common? Below you can find all the features of FITs. 

Traveling solo, in couples, or in small intimate groups

When we talk about FITs, we refer to a group of travelers who are not interested in being part of big groups surrounded by people they don’t know. Many of them prefer to go on a trip by themselves . However, some of them don’t exclusively travel solo.

FITs are also known to travel in couples . They can also plan trips as a small group . These groups are intimate, meaning they usually include friends and family members. 

It’s a diverse demographic group

Usually, travelers with specific travel behavior, needs, and wants, are found in the same demographic segment based on age. This is not the case with FITs. It’s quite a diverse demographic group. Most often, the youngest members are millennials, but they are soon to be joined by Generation Z (those born in the mid and late 90s). 30% of Gen Z prefer to travel alone , and 20% of the same generation plan to go on a solo backpacking trip.

On the other side, you can also find retirees as one of the most active FITs. They are more experienced in travel and know what they want to get out of a trip. It enables them to custom-tailor their experiences and travel entirely independently.

They have above-average income

Another vital factor to consider is the income of travelers. Group travel packages and transportation are popular because they come with attractive price tags and are often found on first-minute and last-minute discounts. 

Independent travel is more expensive than standard travel. That’s why you will find most FITs to have above-average incomes. It enables them to afford more costly forms of travel, including accommodation and transportation. Most of the FITs have an income in the $150,000 range .

Planning their own unique itineraries

The travel products tour operators and travel agencies offer are often pre-built. Many travelers find this quite convenient as they need not worry about anything except packing their bags. With FITs, the situation is quite the opposite. They want to have complete control over the travel experience .

That’s why FITs plan their own unique itineraries . With so much information readily available online, FIT tourists can research destinations independently and plan their itineraries as if they are travel specialists. 

Booking their own transportation and accommodation

The standard tourist does like to explore various accommodation and transportation opportunities. However, their options are limited by the travel agency’s offer. Also, when choosing a travel agent, they often have to book transportation and accommodation through an agency.

FITs book transportation and accommodation on their own. There are many transportation companies and hotels that offer direct booking. It makes it easier for FITs to find what they need. They can book a flight at a specific time and make their independent travel dreams come true.

Exploring destinations on their own

Finally, traditional travel packages often include excursions and sightseeing tours at the destination. Tourists can pursue their own adventures outside these pre-arranged tours but often have very little time to do so.

Independent tourists don’t like to adapt to a schedule somebody else created for them. Instead, they want to explore destinations at their own pace. They are interested in various things, including culture, food, history, and architecture. And since they are independent, they can cherry-pick what the destination has to offer and make their trip one of a kind.

The FIT segment is quite interesting for tour operators and travel agencies as there is excellent potential to generate new revenue streams from FITs. The FIT markets throughout the world keep growing. The pre-pandemic figures indicate that it was growing 7.5% on average per year in western Europe . As the restrictions are being lifted, it’s expected that the market will continue to grow at least at the same pace.

Asian destinations, especially Chinese and Thailand localities, are quite popular among FITs. Many backpackers, the sub-segment of FITs, visited Bangkok, and 63% of them were from Europe alone . Hong Kong’s revenue from FIT products keeps on increasing. Over four years, it went up by more than 100%, from HK$2 billion to HK$5.6 billion . 

According to the Solo Traveler Reader Survey , 70% of solo travelers preferred to stay completely independent while traveling. 40% spend $1,000 on average per week, excluding airfare, while 30% spend $2,500 on average per week. 

Another way to assess the potential value of catering to the needs of FITs is to take a look at the solo travel search trends on major search engines. Over two years, from 2020 to 2022, the number of searches for solo travel on Google quadrupled .

Post-pandemic travel trends are pretty interesting. Google trends indicate that solo travel is trending with a massive increase of over 700% . Booking also reports some interesting numbers. According to their report , the number of solo travelers increased by 100% after the pandemic.  

It appears that Australia is the number one option among FITs. According to the latest research , this continent is the most popular destination for international solo tourists. 

If you find these numbers compelling, you probably want to tap into the FIT market. But is there a way to do it? Tour operators and travel agencies have plenty of options for attracting more FITs and increasing their revenue.

Tour operators have to shift their approach when it comes to creating travel packages. Instead of creating complete packages, they need to focus more on single niche experiences before selling them to consumers and travel agents. Here are some tips tour operators can follow when including culture, food, history, nature, and architecture-related products in their offer:

• Focus on smaller products – instead of creating A-Z experiences, focus on creating single products to attract FITs;
• Choose quality before quantity – when creating products, be mindful of the value the travel experience delivers instead of simply following the “the more, the better” rule;
• Include optional local tour guides – make tour guides optional, as FITs often prefer to explore destinations alone without a guide . Keeping it as an option will enable you to attract also FITs that want to learn something from a local guide;
• Include products for solo, couple, and small group travel – FITs love to travel either solo or in small groups; keep this in mind when creating products;
• Diversify offer – don’t base your products on just one type of experience; diversify your offer by creating culture, architecture, nature, history, and food-oriented products.

When it comes to travel agencies, the most important thing they can do to target FITs is to drop their pre-planned travel itineraries. But before you can implement this strategy, you need to align with tour operators that offer agencies to hand-pick products. 

Since travel agencies are the storefront travelers often explore before booking a trip, you would also need to revisit your website . Most importantly, you must create and deliver a new interface enabling FITs to interact with the products in your listings.

For instance, you can create an itinerary builder and connect it with your product database. It will enable FITs to use it whenever they need to create a specialized itinerary that reflects their unique needs. 

Furthermore, you should make your offers more attractive by optimizing costs. Offering affordable booking opportunities to FITs while still being able to remain profitable can be challenging. That’s where platforms such as Hotelmize can help you out. It will help you take advantage of booking price volatility and enable you to offer products at competitive prices.

Finally, you should optimize your marketing strategies to consider the needs, wants, and preferences of FITs . For instance, you can revise your SEO strategy to target FIT-related keywords in your blog posts and product descriptions. 

PPC marketing is also an option because it allows you to target specific keywords and appear in relevant search results. You can extend your marketing efforts to social media platforms as well. Don’t forget that many FITs are tech-savvy and like to spend time on social media. 

Some platforms, such as Facebook, already have targeting filters in the “People Traveling to This Location” category to help you reach FITs, including:

• Fresh arrivals from the airport;
• Travelers who are interested in a specific characteristic of a city;
• Newly engaged and newlywed couples;
• Birthday celebrators;
• Parents who are traveling with kids in a location.

FITs are travelers who value independence above everything else. They include people of all ages with above-average income who prefer to create their own itineraries, book transport, and accommodation on their own, and explore destinations solo or in small groups. 

Given that the FIT market looks healthy and keeps growing, tour operators and travel agencies are becoming more interested in it with every passing year. If you want to tap into this market, the strategies we’ve outlined will help you target FITs.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Yay you are now subscribed to our newsletter.

Cristóbal Reali, VP of Global Sales at Mize, with over 20 years of experience, has led high-performance teams in major companies in the tourism industry, as well as in the public sector. He has successfully undertaken ventures, including a DMO and technology transformation consulting. In his role at Mize, he stands out not only for his analytical and strategic ability but also for effective leadership. He speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. He holds a degree in Economics from UBA, complementing his professional training at Harvard Business School Online.

Mize is the leading hotel booking optimization solution in the world. With over 170 partners using our fintech products, Mize creates new extra profit for the hotel booking industry using its fully automated proprietary technology and has generated hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue across its suite of products for its partners. Mize was founded in 2016 with its headquarters in Tel Aviv and offices worldwide.

Related Posts

30 Most Important Travel Industry Events for 2024

30 min. Social share: 2024 is packed with must-attend travel industry events. Stop by to discover all relevant events conveniently grouped by continents with listed dates, themes, and locations! Many travel industry experts believe that travel industry events play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the travel industry. Why is this so?  It’s […]

Empowering Equality: Mize Leads the Way in Travel Technology

7 min. Are we all equal? Are we all equally represented in the business world? In some professional sectors, there might still be some under-representation of women, minorities, and the LGBTQIA+ community. The tech sphere is no different, but is the travel tech sector a spark of hope? As the business world becomes more diverse, […]

Slow Tourism Case Studies: Examples to Truly Understand Slow Tourism

14 min. The tourism industry is moving at an ever-accelerating pace. That’s because the tourism industry is perhaps one of the verticals that depend on the most factors. One of the main factors that affect it is social movements, given that tourism brands of all sizes always cater to the needs of consumers. One of […]

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

Travel health advice.

• Before You Travel
• Yellow Fever

Current popular advice pages:

• Staying Healthy if Travelling Abroad this Summer
• Travelling Abroad to Attend Festivals and Other Gatherings
• Mosquito Bite Avoidance
• Food and Water Precautions

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources
• Brian Israel
• Briana Bonfiglio
• Dan McCarthy
• Dori Saltzman
• Jennifer Arango
• Kelly Fontenelle
• Keri-Anne Slevin
• Louis Intreglia
• Sarah Milner
• Tom McCarthy

FITs: A Booming Market and an Opportunity for Agents

This is the first of two interviews with Avanti Destination’s Harry Daalgard on FITs Fully independent travel. Foreign independent tour. Whichever definition you ascribe to the acronym FIT, one thing is certain. FITs are an increasingly popular form of travel as more clients forego off-the-shelf packaged tours in favor of bespoke itineraries. Selling FITs is an opportunity for travel agents to showcase their expertise—and prove their value to clients, according to Harry Dalgaard, founder and president of Avanti Destinations. The company specializes in independent travel to Europe and Central and South America. Travel Market Report spoke with Dalgaard about trends in FIT and FIT travel to Europe. Many tour operators tell us that FIT business is booming. Do you agree? Dalgaard: I’ve been in the market for 34 years. The growth we’ve seen in our area of specialization is extraordinary. At Avanti, our business to Europe has more than doubled in the last four years. At the moment there’s a perception that you’re getting a lot of bang for the buck there. We’re seeing the lowest exchange rates in many years. Many people are jumping at the opportunity to go there because the Euro may not stay that low for long. Other than a weak Euro at the moment, what trends do you think are driving the growth of FITs? Dalgaard: I think the market is maturing and expanding. There’s been a tremendous amount of growth from the Midwest. Traditionally, that’s been more of an escorted or group market. But now the folks who’ve already experienced group travel want to go back. This time, they want to sample those destinations on their own. How do the demographics break down for FITs as opposed to packaged tours? Dalgaard: Since we’re a straight B2B, we don’t typically have a lot of client data. But we do have age statistics. They tell us that half of our clientele is under 50. We’re also seeing a growing acceptance of travel professionals by millennials. They’re like boomers in that they like their independence. They also like to use agents. They’re web savvy and they don’t mind research. But when it’s more than simply a three-night stay in Cancun, they want an advocate on their side. Agents are advocates. They can reach millennials with authentic, unique itineraries.   What’s the strongest argument for FIT travel as opposed to a packaged tour? Dalgaard: Customized travel is a lot more personal. And it’s so rewarding to have encounters that aren’t pre-planned. Sometimes the greatest experiences happen that way. We also encourage people to get off the beaten path. In Europe, we want to give them the flexibility to explore beyond the major capital cities. We make it possible for them to go to small villages in Germany, attend a wine fest or experience a traditional festival in Spain. For example, there’s the Las Fallas Festival  in Valencia each March where you’ll see bonfires on every corner. It’s really special if you come across something like that. It’s not mass tourism or grandstands. But it’s definitely authentic. What are the biggest advantages for travel agents in booking FITs? Daalgard: There’s value in showing your expertise to the client. You’re providing them with a customized vacation. Agents also earn a good commission on lots of things that clients can pre-book. There are so many things such as day sightseeing tours that concierge ends up booking. In Paris, for example, you know they’re going to take a day tour to Versailles, to the Normandy beaches, to the Loire chateaux. Why not get your commission on those things? What other destinations in Europe are doing well for FIT business? Dalgaard: Portugal and Andalusia, Spain are very strong for us. Iceland is probably the highest growth product in terms of percentage. The stopover opportunities with Icelandair make it very attractive. It’s also seen as an adventure destination and it’s very appealing to millennials. You have a lot of people going up to see the Aurora Borealis, or to dive under frozen lakes. Other tour operators tell us that the growing river cruise market is helping their business. Do you agree? Dalgaard: Definitely. We’re seeing a tremendous benefit. These aren’t mass market cruises. The ships carry 150 passengers. Most of them are interested in being away for about 10 to 14 days. The average cruise is one week. So the passengers are looking for some time to add on to the front or the back. We’re seeing people get off in Passau, make their way to Prague or Vienna and fly out from there. It’s not just central Europe; people are looking for stays in places like Bordeaux and Lyon. For agents, it’s a great opportunity to sell some additional pre- or post-cruise stays to their river cruise clients.   What about ocean cruises?   Dalgaard: They’re also bringing in extra FIT business. Baltic Sea cruises are leading to tremendous growth in Copenhagen and Stockholm, two big ports. Both are lovely cities, and the chance to plan some extra time there is something agents should jump at. Norway is going crazy with the whole “Frozen” phenomenon.  It’s hard to imagine that a cartoon aimed at kids is generating interest, but it is. Everyone wants to go there. It’s lovely, you can’t blame them. Next time: The FIT market in Latin and South America

MOST VIEWED

• Four Spots Onboard the All-New Sun Princess We’re Not in Love With
• Testing the Waters with Dori: The NCL Stranded Passenger "Fiasco"
• Delta Air Lines Is Changing the Way It Boards Flights
• Margaritaville at Sea Offers Advisor-Only Pricing
• Lufthansa Strike Update for Monday
• Here's What Each River Cruise Line Includes
• Taiwan Earthquake Update: Train Services Resume, Flights Operating Near Schedule
• Chargebacks: The Scourge of the Travel Advisor Business
• Amex GBT Agrees to Acquire Carlson Wagonlit Travel for $570 Million
• Major Cruise Changes Could Come After Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses
• Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
• The NCL Stranded Passenger “Fiasco”: Your Replies

The Rise of the Travel Influencer: What Advisors Need to Know

Tips about content creation from travel influencers who have mastered social.

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

TRAVELSAVERS Canada’s networking event featured a new trivia game. 

150 travel advisors attended this year's first mega FAM. 

Seasoned execs Todd Pelletier and Scott Schwisow are joining Direct Travel.

I learned the hard way the difference between cost and value.

If you’re looking for bohemian luxury, the adults-only Secrets® Tulum Resort & Beach Club—part of Hyatt Hotels & Resorts—hits all the right notes. 

However, there are some signs that a slowdown could be coming.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Disease Prevention Advice

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

• Introduction

Risk for Travellers

Recommendations for all travellers, overview of the disease, the illness, treatment and testing.

• Vaccination
• Further information

Introduction 

COVID-19 is a respiratory infection which is spread by droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

COVID-19 is present in all countries and poses a risk to all travellers.

Your risk of being exposed to COVID-19 during travel relates to:

• the number of cases in the country you are travelling to (your destination)
• your means of travel, for example by car, boat or aircraft
• the activities you undertake at your destination

The number of positive cases in a country will vary over time, as will the public health measures that each country uses to reduce the spread of COVID-19. These measures may include:

• physical distancing and hygiene measures such as wearing face coverings
• entry requirements, such as testing or proof of vaccination status
• self-isolation (quarantine) requirements

You should ensure that you have had the COVID-19 vaccine as part of the UK COVID-19 Vaccination Programme .

Before planning or booking international travel, you should read the information on the:

• COVID-19 Health Considerations for Travel page
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Frequently asked questions page

These pages detail the points you must consider before, during and after travel to comply with public health measures and stay healthy. 

See the FAQ on how you can reduce your risk of exposure to COVID-19 during travel

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses, from the common cold to more severe infections like MERS-CoV and SARS.

In December 2019 China discovered a new coronavirus causing chest infections in people in Wuhan city, Hubei province, China.

• This new infection was named COVID-19 and the virus causing it is called SARS-CoV-2.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic on the 11 March 2020 meaning the virus had spread worldwide.

The virus spreads from person to person through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

• If you are physically near the person when they cough or sneeze (within 2 metres) these droplets might land in your eyes, nose or mouth and cause infection.
• If your hands touch these surfaces or objects, the virus passes onto your hands.
• When your hands come into contact with your face the virus can cause infection through your mouth, nose, eyes.

Most people with COVID-19 have a mild illness, or no symptoms, and fully recover.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can start up to 14 days after catching the virus.

The symptoms of COVID-19 can vary but commonly include:

• fever/high temperature
• muscle aches

A small percentage of people develop a more severe illness and require hospital care. More severe infections can lead to death.

• See  Am I at increased risk of severe becoming seriously unwell from COVID-19?

Most COVID-19 infections get better without any treatment. For those at risk of severe infection or who require admission to hospital, therapies that make the illness less severe and save lives are available.

Antibiotics do not work because it is a viral infection.

Guidance on testing in the UK nations is available from the following websites:

• Northern Ireland

COVID-19 testing for the purposes of international travel is not available on the NHS.

• Pre-travel COVID-19 tests are available in the private sector. 
• If you need to travel internationally for work and require evidence of a test, you should speak to your employer or occupational health adviser.

Vaccination 

Information on COVID-19 vaccines, including eligibility and how to arrange an appointment for vaccination is available from:

• NHS inform: The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine  
• NHS UK: COVID-19 vaccination services

COVID-19 vaccines are not provided on the NHS for the purposes of travel. From 1 April 2024, COVID-19 vaccines may be available to purchase privately from some pharmacies and private travel clinics.

Further Information

Links to UK guidance on COVID-19 for:

• Scotland: GOV.scot
• England: GOV.UK  
• Wales: GOV.Wales
• Northern Ireland: nidirect.gov.uk

Further information on COVID-19 is available from the World Health Organization

back to top

• General Travel Health Advice

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

I'm a Notorious Overpacker, but These 12 Space-saving Hacks Help Me Fit Everything in a Carry-on

These travel organizers changed the way I pack — and they start at $9.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Life is full of challenges that call for us to rise to the occasion, but for me there’s nothing quite like that “ Can I fit all of this in a carry-on bag ? ” conundrum to really get my problem solving skills going. Over the years, I’ve managed to pack a large amount of items into a carry-on bag, and it’s a badge of honor I wear proudly. 

To be fair, achieving this is much easier when packing for warmer climates that call for less bulky clothing, but there are still ways to bring along your favorite cardigan and snow boots. On a recent ski trip to Vail, Colorado, for example, I wore my trusty snow boots and ski jacket on the plane instead of packing them to free up space in my luggage. Next up, I’m currently packing for a two-week trip through Italy, finally fulfilling my bucket list dream to visit  T+L reader favorite The St. Regis Venice , have a whirlwind culinary adventure through  Emilia Romagna in  Modena   and Bologna’s  Leading Hotels of the World Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni , and end it all with a grand finale at  IHG’s Grand Hotel Des Arts in Verona  and  R Collection’s Grand Hotel Victoria  on Lake Como. And yes, I’ll have a carry on through it all. Naturally, hotels with the word grand in them, require fab outfits to match the mood. This is where good packing cubes can make magic happen, and I’m proud to share that I’ve already fit at least eight of my favorite dresses into one cube for my Italian jaunt. 

Are you team fold or roll? Do you tuck your socks into shoes and sit on your suitcase, praying that the zipper will be merciful? If so, it may be time to consider a different approach. With effective products (and a strong will), you too can forget the stress of checking a bag and wondering if it will arrive in time. From space-saving packing cubes to a compression garment bag , these are some of the products I rely on to remain #TeamCarryOn.

Packing Cubes

One of my biggest travel regrets is that I didn’t give into packing cubes sooner. The hours spent debating whether to fold or roll, leave a favorite item behind, or simply be able to close my luggage due to space has cost me hours of time. For me, these Calpak 5-piece Packing Cube Set packing cubes have truly delivered the solution with a set of four packing cubes and a water-resistant pouch for storage. The top portion is a breathable mesh that makes it easy to identify what you’ve packed without having to open anything to sort through it, and you can even label each cube based on attire. Alternatively, this Bagail 8-piece Packing Cube Set over at Amazon has even more cubes at just a fraction of the cost. It has more than 22,000 five-star ratings and includes a laundry pouch and shoe bag. If you’re traveling with little ones, State Bags makes kid-friendly packing cubes with handles .

Hanging Toiletry Bag

This squishable, waterproof Calpak Toiletry Bag has a durable, lightweight polyester material that makes it easy to lay items on top of while packing. At the same time, it’s still large enough to store makeup products, with a few pockets to stash those random beauty and toiletry items that you may be scrambling to find a spot for in the final hour of packing. As a bonus, it comes in a range of bright colors like bubblegum that are just plain fun and an instant mood booster. Amazon offers a durable alternative with this Nishel Toiletry Bag for $19. Transparent pockets and a soft exterior that allows it to lie flat are just a few of its perks.

Roll Packing Organizer

The Osprey Ultralight Roll Packing Organizer , another hanging kit, is a helpful accessory if you’re looking to keep anything from your toiletries to a first-aid kit in one location. It’s rollable too, allowing for more space in your carry-on bag. The organizational pockets are large enough to store random knick knacks during last-minute packing, and a hanging clip loop makes it easy to find a home for it wherever you’re checking in during travel. 

Foldable Tote Bag

What’s the perfect complement to carry-on luggage? A spacious purse for all of the items that didn’t fit in your larger bag — but one that you can easily pack away in your luggage when not in use. My State Graham Shopper accomplishes all of this and more, with a lightweight, smooth recycled fabric that helps me breeze through airports without being weighed down. Best of all, it’s so large that I’m able to fit my laptop, makeup bag, and even a packing cube with clothing. The State bag is currently on sale, but if you’re looking for an even more affordable option, Amazon has got you covered with this ETidy Foldable Tote Bag , currently on sale for $18. The 2-in-1 design allows the larger tote to be folded into a smaller bag, making it convenient to carry and save space.  

Tech Organizer Case

Tangled cords and bulky chargers, be gone. My go-to, the sleek The Tech Case by Away , offers compartments to efficiently store your chargers in two different sizes. I can easily store travel adapters, earbuds, and random chargers in its sectioned compartments. On Amazon, FYY makes a handy, water-resistant tech organizer case that comes in a number of colors for $10.

Travel Shoe Bag

Say goodbye to trying to contort your shoes between clothes with this waterproof shoe organizer from Hezelf. The bag can carry up to three pairs of shoes and includes a handle to carry it. I also opt to pack foldable shoes whenever I can, with my favorite slides and foldable flats from Vivaia , or, check out these similar foldable shoes from Amazon for $22. 

Pill Organizer

I used to make the mistake of choosing which vitamins to pack based on the size of the bottle. It was a simple fix problem, and this 3-pack pill organizer from Meacolia was the answer. A double lock ensures that pills don’t fall out in your bag, and two of its eight compartments can house larger pills. It’s currently on sale on Amazon for $9, so grab it while you can. 

Lightweight Travel Neck Pillow

A travel pillow can make long flights much more comfortable, but the right one can also save real estate in a bag. To maximize carry-on space, take a look at this genius, stuffable travel pillow that can hold up to an extra 3 days’ worth of clothes (without checking a bag). Or, this versatile, lightweight neck pillow from Trtl is much less bulky than your average option but still provides support by keeping your neck upright while padding it. The super soft fleece material and cushioning provide ultimate comfort, and it can be attached to your luggage. Plus, it’s machine washable, making it easy to clean between trips, too.

Wrinkle-free Compression Travel Garment Bag

I avoid having to make the call to reception for an iron with this wrinkle-free compression garment bag from Eagle Creek. Currently on sale on Amazon for $30, this clothes organizer can hold up to 12 items with compression wings to keep everything tightly secured. Packing folders allow you to lay ironed clothing in stacks, preventing wrinkles during transit. 

Leakproof Toiletry Bottles

Though travel-size toiletry holders are not exactly new, this set from Dot&Dot is a favorite because of its leakproof build. The squeezable silicone also makes my favorite conditioners and lotions easy to get out. The 3-ounce silicon bottles are BPA-free and easy to clean with a wide mouth opening. A range of colors help differentiate between liquids. 

Collapsible Travel To-go Cup

If you never leave home without your refillable cup, consider this collapsible option from Stojo that even comes with a straw. For travelers on the go, shrinking the cup to just two inches can save space in your bag for other items. Separable parts include a heat sleeve, lid, collar, tab, straw, and cup. Best of all, it's made from platinum food-grade silicone, meaning no BPAs or lead. 

Laundry Detergent Sheets

Part of what makes believing in the power of carry-on packing only for longer trips difficult is the challenge of having clean clothes. Fortunately, these detergent sheets from Kind Laundry will allow you to revisit outfits instead of packing more, as well as avoid steep hotel dry cleaning fees. Free of parabens and harsh chemicals, the plant-powered sheets are easy to tuck into carry-ons and stay fresh while traveling. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

Fit For Flight

The #1 app for travel wellness.

Relax. Move. Power Up!

Don´t be that person. The one who doesn´t move enough. The one contributing to an annual cost exceeding $50 Bn. The one with pain and poor blood flow. 

Fit For Flight 2.1 has the tools for you. Tailored Functional Training exercises, Mndfulness, Yoga, Breathing Exercises, Automated Training Programs, CBT based Fearless Flying…

Join the movement! Users in well above 100 countries and growing rapidly.

Included in Fit For Flight…

Tailored Programs

Let us help you to arrive at your destination with a fresh mind and body. It´s simple! Just enter the length of your flight and your target and we´ll remind you when it´s time to take action. 

At the beginning of a flight you may want to wind down. When you get close to your destination you may want to power up and increase your energy level. Or maybe you just need to focus? Don´t worry – we have got you covered either way…

Yoga´s benefits on your mental and physical well being has been proven for ages. Let´s see what our flight specific Yoga Flow sessions can do for you.

Fearless Flying

18% of all passengers feel a discomfort while flying. Our Fearless Flying section helps your mind to focus on other things while flying and hopefully even smile!

How you breathe determines the state of your body and mind. We promise you the most mesmerising app breathing experience there is on the market today! Keep calm, keep focus.

Functional Training

”Sitting is the new smoking”. Our movements are carefully designed for an in-flight environment and will keep you feel fresher, reduce aches and pains, increase your blood flow and reduce the risk of DVT

What People Are Saying

”For me, having a mindful flight is top priority. I feel a slight anxiety when I fly and I need to focus on other things. For me Fit For Flight´s automated and tailored mind programs works wonders.”

Frequent Traveller

”My mind needs to be sharp and open the moment I arrive at my destination. The customers make their decisions in split seconds, and consequently my mind needs to act even faster than that.”

Business Investor

”I didn´t travel that much anymore, it was just too much strain on my back and neck. Thanks to Fit for Flight I am not sore after a 4 hour flight anymore and the whole trip becomes more joyful.”

Retired re-traveller

Ready for healthier flights?

XTD Group AB | Sweden

[email protected]