Traveling With Face Masks: What You Need To Know

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on, it is more important than ever for travelers to wear face masks to protect themselves and others. Respiratory infections, including COVID-19, influenza, and the common cold, are a leading cause for travelers to seek medical care upon their return. Therefore, masking is a critical public health tool for preventing the spread of respiratory diseases, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.

While the practice of wearing masks is not advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many travelers are choosing to do so. The type of mask and the decision to wear one depend on various factors, including personal preference, local regulations, and the level of risk in the area. It is essential to prioritize high-filtration masks, such as KN95, KF94, and N95 respirators, to effectively reduce the spread of the virus.

When to wear a face mask

The decision to wear a face mask depends on several factors, including your health status, the prevalence of respiratory diseases in your community or travel destination, and the type of transportation or setting you'll be in. Here are some scenarios where wearing a face mask is highly recommended:

• When you are sick: If you are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as fever or a head cold, it is advisable to wear a face mask to prevent the spread of infection to others. In such cases, it is generally better to delay travel if possible.
• In crowded or tight spaces with poor ventilation: Airports, airplanes (especially during takeoff and landing), seaports, trains, buses, and other forms of public transportation fall into this category. The close proximity to others and limited airflow increase the risk of respiratory disease transmission.
• High levels of respiratory diseases in your community or destination: If there are high levels of respiratory diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, or the common cold, it is beneficial to wear a mask. This is especially important if you are travelling through or to an area with a high prevalence of these diseases.
• Immune system considerations: If you or someone you are in close contact with has a weakened immune system or is at increased risk for severe illness, wearing a face mask can provide additional protection.
• Exposure to COVID-19: If you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 10 days, wearing a mask can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
• Protection of vulnerable individuals: Wearing a mask during travel can help protect vulnerable individuals who cannot avoid crowded places, such as babies under 6 months, people over 65, or those with weakened immune systems.
• Public transportation and transportation hubs: These areas often involve spending extended periods in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, increasing your chances of exposure to respiratory diseases.
• Older age groups and individuals with pre-existing conditions: Face masks can be particularly important for those who are older or have underlying health conditions, as they are generally at higher risk for severe disease.
• Indoor settings and crowded outdoor gatherings: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing masks in public indoor areas and crowded outdoor settings, especially when in close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated.
• When travelling by plane: Face masks are still mandated by many airlines, both international and domestic. Some airlines have even banned cloth masks, requiring surgical or higher-grade masks.
• When in close contact with others: Maintaining physical distancing can be challenging in certain situations, such as in crowded bathrooms or TSA lines. Wearing a face mask can provide additional protection when social distancing is difficult to maintain.

The effectiveness of different types of face masks

The effectiveness of face masks varies depending on their type, material, and structure. Here is an overview of the different types of face masks and their effectiveness:

Cloth Masks

Multiple-layer cloth masks are excellent barriers for containing respiratory droplets if worn consistently and properly, covering the nose and mouth. They are a good option for the general public and can be easily made at home using common fabrics such as cotton. Cloth masks are reusable and can be washed regularly. However, they may not provide the same level of protection as medical-grade masks.

Surgical Masks

Surgical masks, also known as procedural masks, are loose-fitting masks designed to cover the mouth and nose. They offer excellent protection due to their filtration and fluid resistance. A simple "knot and tuck" technique can improve the fit of rectangular surgical masks. These masks are meant for single-use only and should be disposed of when soiled or damaged.

N95 Masks

N95 masks are air-filtering respirators that provide a higher level of filtration than cloth or surgical masks. They are designed to fit tightly against the face and can filter out at least 95% of particles. N95 masks are commonly used by healthcare professionals and are especially effective in high-risk environments. However, they may be uncomfortable for extended periods and are typically meant for single-use.

KN95 Masks

KN95 masks are similar to N95 masks in terms of protection and filtration. They offer a secure fit and are more comfortable than N95 masks due to their ear loops. KN95 masks are also designed for single-use and should be disposed of properly.

Face Shields

Face shields are rigid, transparent plastic barriers that cover the entire face. They are often used in combination with face masks, especially in healthcare settings. While face shields can provide additional protection, they are not a replacement for masks as they have gaps around the face.

Exhalation Valves and Filtration Systems

Masks with exhalation valves are designed to protect the wearer but may not effectively protect others as they allow droplets to escape into the air. Similarly, masks with built-in filtration systems should be avoided as they do not provide the same level of protection as standard masks.

In summary, the effectiveness of face masks depends on their type, with N95 and KN95 masks offering the highest level of protection, followed by surgical and cloth masks. It is important to choose a well-fitting mask and wear it consistently and properly to maximize its effectiveness.

How to properly wear a face mask

Wearing a face mask is an effective way to protect yourself and others from infectious diseases, especially in crowded settings with poor ventilation, such as airports and airplanes. Here are some tips on how to properly wear a face mask:

• Choose the right mask: Opt for a high-quality mask that fits snugly and securely. N95, KN95, and KF94 masks offer superior protection due to their improved filtration standards and secure fit. Cloth masks, while better than no mask, provide the least protection.
• Ensure a proper fit: The mask should cover both your nose and mouth, extending below your chin. Look for adjustable ear loops and a flexible nose wire to create a custom, snug fit.
• Wash your hands: Before putting on and after taking off your mask, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
• Avoid touching your face: Refrain from touching your face while wearing the mask.
• Replace or wash your mask: Masks should be replaced or washed after each use. If using a disposable mask, discard it after each use. For reusable masks, wash them regularly, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Carry extra masks: Always carry extra masks with you when travelling, in case your mask becomes damaged, moist, or dirty.
• Know when to mask up: Wear a mask when in crowded spaces, when respiratory diseases are prevalent in your community, if you have a weakened immune system, or if you are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness.
• Layer up: Consider double-masking by wearing a cloth mask over a surgical mask to improve the fit and provide additional protection.
• Combine with other protective measures: Face masks are more effective when combined with other precautions, such as social distancing, hand washing, and staying home when sick.

Where to buy face masks

When it comes to buying face masks, there are a variety of options available, including online and in-store. Here is a list of places where you can purchase face masks:

Online:

• Amazon
• Staples
• Vistaprint
• Avocado
• Fans Edge
• Adorama
• REI
• Foco
• Zappos
• Disney
• Newegg
• Office Depot
• Lowe's
• Eastern Mountain Sports
• Backcountry
• Etsy (UK)
• Reusable Cotton Masks (UK)
• Go Outdoors (UK)
• Cotswold Outdoor (UK)
• Mountain World (UK)

In-Store:

• Home Depot
• Target
• Macy's

Types of Masks:

It is important to note that not all masks are created equal, and some are more effective than others. Here are some types of masks that you can consider:

• N95 masks: These are the most effective masks, often used by healthcare professionals. They provide a tight seal and can filter out small airborne particles.
• KN95 masks: Similar to N95 masks but provide a less tight seal. They are commonly used by healthcare workers in China.
• KF94 masks: These masks also offer good protection and are considered fairly equivalent to KN95 masks.
• Cloth masks: While cloth masks are better than no mask at all, they offer less protection compared to the masks mentioned above.

When purchasing face masks, it is recommended to buy from reputable sources and to prioritize masks that offer a good fit and high filtration standards.

Face masks for children

When choosing a face mask for a child, it is important to consider the size, ensuring a snug fit with no gaps. Adjustable ear loops or head straps, flexible nose wires, and multiple layers of fabric can all help achieve a secure fit.

There are several types of masks available for children, including:

• Cloth masks: These are often made from breathable fabrics like cotton and can be washed and reused. They may have elastic ear loops or head straps and sometimes include a pocket for a removable filter.
• Surgical masks: These are typically made from three layers of nonwoven fabric and are designed for one-time use. They offer a looser fit compared to other types of masks.
• KN95 masks: These masks are designed to filter out 95% of small particles and are made from multiple layers of nonwoven polypropylene, including a melt-blown fabric filter layer. They often have adjustable ear loops and a flexible nose wire for a secure fit.
• KF94 masks: These masks are similar in style to KN95 masks but are produced in South Korea. They are slightly more spacious, providing more room to talk and breathe, and typically do not have adjustable ear loops.

When selecting a face mask for a child, it is important to prioritise comfort, fit, and breathability. It is also worth noting that masks with fun colours, patterns, or characters may be more appealing to children and increase the likelihood of cooperation.

Additionally, it is recommended to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and public health experts regarding the appropriate use of face masks for children, especially in response to changing infection rates and new variants.

Frequently asked questions