1) Face masks - You need to know the difference between regular face masks and FFP2/KN95
Firstly, the requirements will vary between different countries but it is important to know the difference as you could be asked to wear a certain type of mask for public transport. I have experience two examples of this so far:
Austria - FFP2 or KN95 masks are legal requirements in most places included on airlines, they will not let you board the plane with a regular face mask.
Italy - Some of the public transport still requires FFP2 or KN95 masks, even the water taxis in Venice!
Here are some pictures of the different types of masks:
Note: FFP2 and KN95 are equivalent so either should suffice, you don’t need to buy both!
2) Covid Pass / Vaccination Passport
The Covid Pass requirement is fairly standardised across Europe with the EU Vaccination Passport and so far I have been able to use my UK Covid Vaccination Proof for public transport and to get access to restaurants, coffee shops and sometimes toilets! It is a case of simply scanning the QR code. I recommend downloading a copy on your phone so you don’t need to use an app when internet access can be patchy - the officials can get a bit tetchy if you take too long to provide proof.
For the UK the 2D barcode expires every 30 days so you will need to download a new one every month.
Finally I have noticed that countries give the Covid Passport different names. For example in Italy they call it a “Green Pass” , so if you are asked for your Green Pass just show them your COVID vaccination certificate
3) PCR Covid Testing - pre departure
Most countries have removed pre-departure PCR testing but it's not the case everywhere. For example certain African countries introduced this alongside the public health form which is mandatory. You must get a PCR test within 48 hours of boarding otherwise you will not be allowed to fly. You also need to read the small print, I was caught out trying to travel to Morocco because I thought a COVID Vaccine Pass was sufficient. For me travelling to Africa has been much more difficult than Europe.
4) Mandatory COVID Testing on arrival
Some countries have random Antigen or PCR testing on arrival and there are others that don't tell you that you will be tested on arrival.
I arrived in Tunis port to find everyone being swabbed regardless of vaccination status, it was quite aggressive and unfortunately for me this was not the only issue I would face here. So be warned!
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