Coronavirus Travel – Benefits of Travelling by Car

Amid the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic, there are many uncertainties surrounding travel. From cancelled flights to closed borders and lockdowns, travel within Europe is proving more and more difficult for many.

In such an unprecedented situation as this, we are doing our best to look forward and anticipate what will happen once Coronavirus passes so that we can best serve you as you travel within Europe in the future.

A survey conducted by LuggageHero, published in Forbes, showed that 25% of participants planning to travel between May and September will try to avoid public transportation. Additionally, "Demand will come back stronger than ever once the situation is over," says Jannik Lawaetz, LuggageHero's CEO.

While we recognise that anything is possible, and there are many unknowns and hurdles ahead, the article in Forbes predicts that after the next 30 days of travel restrictions, things may begin to return to normal. This leads to the question of how the travel industry will bounce back in the aftermath of coronavirus.

Travel experts suggest that travel will return to normal faster than expected. According to John Lovell, president of leisure travel and supplier relations and networks at Travel Leaders Group,

"Despite the challenges, it won’t be this way forever… Travel and tourism is a highly resilient industry that has come back again and again from diseases and natural disasters."

He adds,

"You have to assess your own risk tolerance, take reasonable and prudent precautions, and make smart decisions about your travel… Right now, there are amazing travel deals to destinations all over the world."

So, what are some things to consider if you need to travel to Europe during this time or after the pandemic ends? Of course, you will want to bear your destination in mind, look for deals, and ensure you have a sound travel insurance policy in place. Something else you may consider is travelling by car.

The Advantages of Travelling by Car

If you’re planning to travel to Europe from the UK, but wish to avoid flying or using public transport like the 25% of participants in the study above, you might consider driving.

Travelling in the comfort of your own car gives you much more control over your immediate environment, allowing you to remain confined to your own car, protected from any bacteria outside. However, if you’re still concerned, why not thoroughly clean your car before your trip? Don’t forget to disinfect areas like the steering wheel, seatbelts and vents where bacteria are likely to collect over time. You can also pack antibacterial wipes and hand sanitiser to keep in the glove box as needed throughout your trip.

If you are travelling with your family, you also have the luxury of kitting out the back seats with pillows and blankets for an extra comfortable journey.

Travelling by Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is fast and requires no mixing with others. If you were especially concerned about coronavirus, by car, you could travel from A to B without even opening the windows. When travelling via the Eurotunnel, you don’t have to get out of the car or open the windows. Additionally, if you buy a toll tag, you can travel on toll roads without opening the window at a toll booth. Find out more about how toll tags work here.

So where can you travel via the Eurotunnel?

From Folkestone, you can reach Calais in 35 minutes, and from Calais Europe is your oyster! Popular destinations from Calais include:

Paris – 293km

Normandy – 327km

Lyon – 789km

Bordeaux – 867km

You can find out more about getting to France by car in our handy article.

But, first and foremost, we advise staying up to date with travel guidelines and restrictions and ensuring you and your families stay safe during this troubling time.