The list of requirements to travel in times of covid-19: this is what you have to know before you leave

(CNN) -- As our bags gathered dust over the past 16 months, the travel industry has quickly adapted to meet the demands of the new Covid era.

This means that if you're going on your first flight in a while, things may be very different than what you're used to.

It's no longer just about packing the power adapter and making sure the shampoo is in small bottles. For this reason, we have prepared this travel list in times of covid-19 with everything you must take into account before embarking on the trip.

Planning where to go in the middle of the covid era

1. Around the world, doors are increasingly opening to travel for those who can prove they are fully vaccinated, with the typical requirement being that 14 days have passed since the second dose.

Not all vaccines are the same, so you'll need to check that the brand you received (and sometimes even the batch number) is accepted by the destination you intend to visit.

2. Check carefully the entry restrictions to all the destinations you wish to visit or transit, and keep checking them until the time of travel and during the trip itself. And if you plan to travel within a country, remember that different regions may have different rules. CNN Travel's Unlocking the World guides are a good starting point.

3. Remember that even if you are allowed to enter a country, life there may be far from normal. Do your homework beforehand to find out which tourist attractions and lodging services are open, and where and when wearing a mask is mandatory.

4. Book flexible and refundable flights and accommodations whenever possible, or reconsider travel. And be sure to take out up-to-date travel insurance: some destinations require it before you enter (make sure to check the fine print on covid-19).

Budget

1. Do you remember cheap vacations and cheap flights? Well, that won't be back for a while. Expect or prepare for price increases on flights, car rentals, lodging, food, drinks, and just about everything.

2. Check how many covid-19 tests can be required and how much each of them will cost. If there's a chance that travel rules will change mid-trip and you'll have to self-isolate at home or undergo a mandatory stay at a designated hotel, that's something you'll also need to consider.

Pack

1. Confirm well in advance what documentation you must present in the different sections of your trip and print everything that requires printed copies (or simply as backup).

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Depending on where you are in the world and where you are going, check the travel requirements and download the apps that are necessary or recommended and load them with the relevant information.

2. In addition to the usual packing list, two novelties that we recommend are disposable masks and a small bottle of hand sanitizer that you can carry in your hand luggage.

3. Pack your (empty) refillable water bottle in your carry-on as usual, but please note that due to covid-19 precautions, drinking fountains may or may not be back in operation at the airports you visit.

4. Not all of your favorite airport restaurants and shops may be open as usual, so you may not be able to pick up last-minute items like toiletries or specific meals and snacks. If it is an item that you need 100% for your trip, buy it before you travel.

way to the airport

If you were a frequent flyer before covid, chances are you had a favorite route to get to the airport, knowing the time you needed to get out. You may have to rethink that.

1. If your trip to the airport involves the use of public transport, services may be less frequent than before the arrival of covid. There are also driver shortages in many cities when it comes to taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, which means longer wait times and higher fares.

2. Once at the airport, there may be travel delays due to waiting times for covid-19 tests and the application of social distancing measures.

3. An airline you previously used frequently may have changed their travel rules since the last time you flew with them. For example, some airlines – like Ireland's Aer Lingus – are reducing free hand luggage, so you'll have to choose between putting your 10-kilogram suitcase in the hold for free or paying extra to bring it on board.

If you put it in the hold, you will have to allow extra time at check-in and at the end of your flight.

In the airport

Although you may see other passengers ignoring them, surely the airports you travel through have social distancing measures in place.

1. Please make room for other passengers, and give people plenty of room at the security line and other travel checkpoints. If you see that other passengers do not do the same, do your best to relax: after all, you are on vacation.

On board

1. You are expected to wear masks while on board the plane, so make sure you choose ones that you are comfortable with and that meet airline requirements. Disposable masks are the easiest option to be able to change them periodically.

2. Not all airlines are taking the step of blocking middle seats to prevent the spread of covid-19, so if that's a priority for you, do your research beforehand and be prepared to pay a little more with a premium airline.

3. Virtually all airlines, however, will have reduced their on-board service, so check in advance what will be available and if you need to book meals in advance or notify the airline of dietary requirements.

4. Keep in mind that many airlines only accept contactless payments, so have your bank card or phone ready for in-cabin purchases.

5. The cabin crew will also try to reduce the movement of passengers during the flight, so you may not be able to get up and stretch as often as you are used to. Please use the restrooms ashore before boarding and bring any travel pillows or other necessities to ensure you can settle in comfortably when on board.