It’s 2023, Should You Bother with COVID Precautions?

Many major hotels still have social distancing and other measures in place.

Many Americans don’t believe that the pandemic is over and many still value COVID precautions when traveling and seek out hotels that have implemented safety measures. Recent surveys have shown that travelers are prioritizing health and safety when making travel decisions and are willing to pay extra for COVID-related safety measures.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still recommends that travelers take precautions to protect themselves and others from COVID-19, such as wearing masks in public settings, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizer.

A December 2022 study from Ipsos, a market research company, found that 56 percent don’t think that it’s time to “move on.” Nearly 70 percent also say that the government should continue funding prevention measures. And if they think the government should, they probably think you should too.

Major hotels are catering to that. The following still implement social distancing measures and contactless check-in:

• Marriot
• Hilton
• Omni
• Best Western
• Hyatt
• Wyndham

And there are more. They also offer “advanced cleaning.” Good. Enhanced cleaning practices rank as No. 2 in guests’ hotel priorities, next to pricing.

Many of them also ask unvaccinated guests to use facemasks when in public areas of the hotel –  though this can vary by location.

Here are some common precautions that many hotels are still taking…

1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection

Many hotels have increased their cleaning frequency and are using enhanced disinfection protocols to ensure that guest rooms and public areas are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

2. Social distancing measures

They’ve also implemented measures to promote social distancing, such as reducing occupancy limits in elevators and public areas, placing markers on the floor to indicate safe distances, and reconfiguring furniture in public areas to promote distancing.

3. Contactless check-in and check-out

You could offer contactless check-in and check-out options, such as mobile check-in and keyless entry, to reduce physical contact between guests and staff.

Plus this can make the process super easy and convenient for travelers, so they’ll probably appreciate it no matter their thoughts on post-pandemic precautions.

4. Health screenings

Some hotels may conduct health screenings, such as temperature checks, for guests and staff upon arrival.

5. Limited services

Many hotels may have modified or limited services, such as reduced hours for restaurants and amenities, to reduce the risk of exposure. Some have even changed up their breakfast options, opting for packaged grab-and-go items rather than buffets.

It’s important to note that specific COVID precautions can vary depending on the individual hotel because of local laws.