How Working From Home and COVID-19 Impacts Travel

Last updated on June 28th, 2023 at 02:11 pm

COVID-19 Travel Regulations for those that Are Working From Home and Thinking About Travel

If you’ve been working from home throughout the COVID-19 outbreak, then it’s more than likely that your mind has wandered to the thoughts of travelling and holidays. Although you’ve probably spent more time inside this year then any other year and the prospect of a getaway is exciting – it’s still important to keep up-to-date with the latest travel advice from The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

This guide will help update you on how the new norm of working from home has impacted travel and how it will affect future travel prospects. It will also provide you with resources to help answer any COVID-19 travel-related questions you may have.

Here are some useful guides to help you travel with confidence:

What Does Working From Home Mean For Travel and Future Travel Plans?

The outbreak of COVID-19 meant that for travelling was paused for many, whether for work or pleasure. However, as the virus continued to adapt – a ‘new norm’ was formed. Many found themselves working from home with holidays becoming a last-minute decision with the opening and closing of travel corridors. But what are the short term and long-lasting effects COVID-19 on travel? Read on to find out.

What Does Working From Home Mean For The Everyday Commute

When we think of travelling we usually think of going on holiday. Rarely do we consider the everyday commute as ‘travelling’. However, as with everything else – COVID-19 did have and continues to have a huge impact on travelling into work.

The most significant impact of not travelling into work was found to be financial. It was found that by ditching the daily commute, UK office-based employees saved a small fortune. The Office for National Statistics reported that UK office-based employees save about £500 ($665) a month by working from home.

The impact is thought to be long-lasting, with many firms not considering returning to the workplace until at least 2021.

Working From Home Overseas

However, those that found themselves working from home soon grew tired of ‘the new norm’ and the question was raised – can I work from home overseas?

With FCDO opening exemption corridors, meaning that travellers could fly once again without having to isolate – the idea of working from home overseas became possible. While not all countries were open to travellers, some countries welcomed the opportunity for workers around the world to fly in. Barbados even announced a one-year visa for working remotely. However, you must apply online and be accepted before you travel.

But we highly recommend that you check with your employer before jetting off!

How Does Working From Home Affect Holidays

Although working from home has its pros, it also has its cons. Many of us were left dreaming of a getaway and spending our commuting budget on a plane ticket. Business leaders that have long since encouraged remote working are aware of what working from home can leave us lacking. Erik Dyson, CEO of All Hands and Hearts stated that:

‘Think about all-remote workers. The idea of home is great, but you still need opportunities for human interaction and ways to experience the world, whether Dubuque, Iowa or Costa Rica.’ – Erik Dyson, ALL HANDS AND HEARTS CEO

However, working from home has not only increased our longing for a holiday but has also impacted the type of holiday employees take, with many looking to get away for longer. Guisset, founder and CEO of Outside stated that:

“Travelling now is much more difficult so people want to stay longer to make it worthwhile,” – Guisset

So, if the pandemic has left you dreaming of a holiday – you can grab a last-minute deal by clicking here. Make sure you check the latest travel advice from FCDO before you book and take our travel insurance with enhanced COVID-19 cover so that you can travel with confidence.

Travel Insurance

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, having comprehensive travel insurance is now more essential than ever before. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is recommended that you take out a policy with a specialist for that added peace of mind. AllClear has been offering specialist insurance for over 20 years. AllClear branded policies all include enhanced COVID-19 cover, to find out more, click here.

Make Sure You Have the COVID-19 Travel Essentials

Whether you’re embarking on your daily commute or jetting off on holiday – make sure you pack your COVID-19 essentials so that you can keep yourself and those around you safe;

You will need to following items;