The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply disturbed the global economy like no other, causing many industries to shift their business priorities and embrace the “new normal.” Even after the pandemic subsides, travelling will not be the same until a vaccine is developed and widely distributed. Business people are likely to experience the new normal when going on business trips which will see an increased focus on compliance, health and safety, and duty of care.
Since the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, there has been a significant decline in the total number of business trips as a result of travel restrictions and shelter-in-place orders. In light of these changes, here is some food for thought on how the “new normal” in the global travel system looks like and how organizations and employees all over the world are adapting to it.
- Non-essential travels remain prohibited
Since the outbreak, at least 91% of the total world’s population lived in countries with COVID-19-related travel restrictions, 39% of these countries have imposed a partial or complete border closure on non-citizen and nonresidents arriving from other countries, such as business travellers, tourists, and new immigrants. Each country has announced a travel advisory guide to limit the spread of the disease from one country to another.
Among the travel advisories in Canada is the restriction of non-essential travel from countries with high coronavirus cases. The United States issued an extension on the travel ban to Canada.
Canada’s CBC News confirmed that the two North American countries will be extending restrictions on non-essential travel until July 21. The US-Canada travel ban first took place last March 20 and has been extended multiple times.
Also, for business trips outside Canada, take note that travel insurance providers do not cover trips booked on or after March 13, 2020.
- Focus on health and safety
Travel agencies have issued guidelines to ensure public health and safety. Among the many preventive measures is encouraging business travellers to bring travel-sized hand sanitizers and disinfectants, like Lysol wipes, to ensure protection from pathogens.
Transport providers have also placed more emphasis on sanitizing and disinfecting vehicles to curb the spread of the virus.
- Business travel will be sporadic yet mindful
Since the pandemic, many organizations have realized that some meetings do not need to take place in person and have acknowledged the importance of remote conference calls. Even with the impact on the economy, some businesses have adapted to the drastic changes much better than expected.
Business travel in Canada will be completely different as it will be a more mindful yet calculated way of travelling that will benefit both the organization and its employees. This promotes a better life-balance for employees and a better ROI for the organization.
- Domestic travel increases and international travel declines
As countries try to restore normalcy in the face of the pandemic, many anticipate that domestic travel will soon resume. For safety reasons, many will be travelling by car.
Corporate bus rental and services in Toronto are also expected to pick up before air travel, as they provide safety, convenience, and comfort to business people who need to work “on the go.” Those who will be travelling for leisure with their friends and family may also opt for a bus tour rental. However, bus rental companies are also required to ensure strict social distancing to maintain the safety of passengers.
Although travelling by land takes longer, this gives passengers (many of whom are not fond of security checks, queues, and waiting times), a more enjoyable and relaxed experience. Many bus rental services include WiFiI to allow employees to work while on the road.
- Organizations will continue to keep tabs on business travel
Organizations have been taking steps to repatriate their employees and bring them back home from business trips while the lockdown is ongoing. Organizations will use travel booking tools to ensure control over the bookings of their employees, from the travel date to bus charter rental reservations.
Business travel may have slowed down due to the global coronavirus pandemic, but it will eventually resume. Although no one knows exactly when it will bounce back to what it originally was, business travel, like other industry sectors, will have to adapt to the new normal. As long as there is no cure for the disease, new restrictions will be enforced and new habits will be formed to prioritize public health and safety. The overall state of business travel will continue to change, with many organizations seeking more support, information, and insight to help them prepare for and embrace the changes.
- Staying Safe From Coronavirus While Travelling
When travelling, it is extremely important to be mindful of your health and safety and take precautions against any and all infectious pathogens.
If you are out for a business trip:
- Practice social distancing and make sure to wear a face mask in crowded areas.
- Be mindful of the people around you — stay away from sick people, especially if those with fever, cough, colds, or difficulty breathing.
- Be alert of the local situation and observe local public health advice.
All travellers must adhere to the health precautions found below:
- Wash your hands
-
- Wash your hands frequently with a germicidal soap, if possible, for at least 20 seconds. Rinse your hands well under warm running water.
- If soap and water are unavailable, disinfect your hand with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure to bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer wherever you are.
- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette
- To minimize the risk of spreading the virus, always cover your mouth and nose with your arm or a tissue whenever you cough or sneeze.
- Dispose of the tissue properly in garbage bins as soon as possible and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
- Wearing non-medical masks
- Wearing a non-medical mask properly provides you with additional protection, especially when in crowded areas. Make sure to cover the nose and mouth completely without gaping and secure the ties or loops properly to your ear or head. However, non-medical masks have limitations and only provide protection for a short period that is why it is imperative to use them correctly.
- Monitor your health
- If you think you have been exposed to coronavirus and are showing symptoms, avoid contact with others and follow the public health protocol on seeking care or contact a healthcare provider immediately.
If you are looking for a trusted corporate bus rental company in Toronto to transport you or your employees to their business travel destination, call Parkinson Coach Line at (905) 451-4776 to request a quote. We guarantee safe transport and assure you that our fleet undergoes thorough cleaning and sanitation processes. We provide convenience and enjoyable experience while you work on the go.