Post by Sato Koda on May 9, 2020 9:17:01 GMT -5
9 Aspects To Consider Before Traveling Overseas Again
JT GenterContributor
AdvisorContributor Group
Personal Finance
We are all ready for things to return to normal. For many people, normal may involve going to restaurants and bars, having dinner with friends or going to church. For me, “normal” involves living out of a backpack and traveling over 250,000 miles each year to countries all around the world. Suffice to say, my nomadic life is on hold for the foreseeable future.
Happy male about to fly overseas
GETTY
Through the end of June, I’ve canceled trips to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Germany, Singapore, India, Morocco and France due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While I’m sad to miss out on these trips, I’m grateful that my family and I have remained healthy so far.
But, what is it going to take for us to start traveling again? Will airlines need to block middle seats and require face coverings for flying to go back to normal? Can hotels reliably clean rooms and common areas enough to prevent spread between guests? All of that remains to be seen.
As I remain grounded, I’m considering the aspects I’ll use to determine when to start traveling again. As a largely international traveler, I’m focusing on international travel. However, a lot of the same factors are just as important to domestic air travel returning to normal.
Reduced Travel Advisories
On March 19, the U.S. State Department issued a Global Level 4 Advisory telling potential travelers “Do Not Travel.” Then on March 27, the U.S. Center for Disease Control issued its highest travel advisory: a Level 3 Warning to “Avoid Nonessential Travel—Widespread Ongoing Transmission.”
Similarly, health departments all over the world have advised their residents and potential travelers against traveling.
As antsy as I am to get back on the road, I’m waiting until these advisories have been lifted before I consider non-essential travel again. For domestic air travel, I’m going to wait for the CDC advisory to be lowered. For international travel, I’ll be waiting for both the U.S. State Department and the destination country’s health department to lower advisories.
Reopening of Borders
In mid-March, my wife and I planned to visit Zimbabwe and Zambia to see Victoria Falls. But as we planned to head north from South Africa, we found out that we wouldn’t be able to do so. In order to enter Zimbabwe, visitors needed to produce a negative coronavirus test result. And we couldn’t find a way to get tested in time.
While that was a soft border closure, many countries have since completely shut borders to visitors. In our case, even if we wanted to keep our trips to Germany, Singapore or India, we wouldn’t be able to as each country has banned visitors from entering.
At a minimum countries will need to start opening their borders for international travel to be possible again. There are discussions that Australia, Spain and Italy may not reopen their borders until at least the end of 2020. Considering the lack of adequate testing and rampant spread in the U.S., Americans may face continuing restrictions even when limited travel resumes.
It’s not just international borders that are currently shut. Hawaii is one of several states that is requiring a 14-day quarantine for all arriving passengers. Unless you want to spend your two weeks of vacation in quarantine, it’s going to be best to wait to visit the 50th state.
Reintroduction of Airline Routes
It’s not just borders that are going to have to reopen. Airlines are going to have to restart routes before we will be able to start traveling again. With airlines cutting international capacity by 80 to 90%, destinations aren’t nearly as accessible as before.
Personally, I’ve had trips to Brisbane, Casablanca, Bangalore and Sydney all canceled as a direct result of Qantas and American Airlines canceling routes to these destinations. In each case, an alternative wasn’t even offered by the airline. Instead, the only option was a refund.
And it might take a while for these links to be reconnected. The Brisbane, Casablanca and Bangalore routes were canceled until an unspecified date in 2021. And American Airlines has canceled all flights to Australia and New Zealand through late October 2020.
Hotels Resume Normal Operations
A large number of hotels and resorts have closed due to COVID-19. As of mid-April, Marriott had closed more than 25% of its hotels worldwide. Around 1,000 IHG hotels were closed as of April 30. And there are already reports that some hotels will never reopen.
Even when hotels have decided to remain open, they are typically doing so with a reduced amount of service—from eliminating breakfast to reducing housekeeping. So, now certainly isn’t the time to go on that once-of-a-lifetime trip to the Maldives or even a beach getaway to the Caribbean.
Once hotels resume normal operations, it’s going to be a clear indicator that travel is returning to normal. With that said, some hotels may wait for demand to rebound before taking the costly step of reopening. And it might make sense for hotel brands to keep some hotels closed even longer where they have multiple options nearby.
Coronavirus Immunity is Confirmed
Multiple testing companies have rolled out coronavirus antibody tests. While these tests will indicate if someone has coronavirus antibodies, we don’t yet know for sure whether or not these antibodies will prevent further infection.
With that said, if I can confirm that I have antibodies that can prevent further infections and spread, I’d love to start supporting airlines, hotels, restaurants and destinations by traveling again. I agree with Delta CEO Ed Bastian that we could soon have a future with “immunity passports” enabling those that are known to be immune to get back to traveling sooner.
Rapid Testing in Airports
When it comes to traveling, you usually aren’t in a more-crowded situation than when flying. I think a lot of travelers would feel better getting on a plane if they knew everyone on the flight had just tested negative for coronavirus.
As testing technology gets faster, cheaper and more widely available, I could foresee having rapid-result testing done as a condition of entering an airport. Some overseas airports have security checks at airport entrances, and I could see having something similar for COVID-19 testing.
While this might sound far-fetched, rapid testing before flights has already been utilized. In mid-April, Emirates tested all passengers before a flight from Dubai to Tunis using tests that produced results in 10 minutes. It seems that type of testing currently requires too much of an investment from airlines at this point, but the economics could change soon.
Fast and Effective Cleaning Measures
Scientists are continuing to study the most effective way of killing the virus on surfaces—whether it’s by using disinfectant sprays or UVC light. The potential market for surface disinfectants is going to be huge as we continue through this pandemic, so we can count on any breakthroughs to quickly be brought to market.
When airlines and hotels can quickly and safely disinfect surfaces—and demonstrate that they are effectively doing so—I will personally feel a lot safer traveling. That’s especially true if combined with the rapid testing of passengers.
Lack of Wide Community Spread
My wife and I traveled to Hong Kong and Singapore in February despite there being cases there. We consulted travel advisories—which didn’t warn against travel at the time—and we figured the risk was low, there were appropriate countermeasures in place and we made sure to wear a mask and practice hand hygiene.
Until a vaccine is developed and widely distributed, there’s going to be some risk from traveling—both of getting sick and of unintentionally spreading the disease. Still, I wouldn’t rule out travel to places where there is a lack of community spread—especially if I can confirm that I’m not carrying the virus.
A Vaccine in Wide Circulation
Of course, the holy grail in the fight against COVID-19 is the development and wide scale distribution of an effective vaccine. Hopefully, we won’t have to wait for this to happen before we can safely travel, but it will be a game-changer in letting all aspects of life return to normal.
After having COVID-19 decimate the airline industry, I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see airlines require proof of vaccination to travel. While that might seem like a wild idea to some travelers, some international travelers are familiar with having to show an International Certificate of Vaccination “yellow card” to enter countries.
I could foresee this yellow card being essential to all traveling, with the coronavirus immunization stamp joining yellow fever, Hepatitis A/B and other vaccinations.
Bottom Line
As someone who’s flown over 1,000,000 miles by air in the past four years, I can’t wait to get back in the skies to start visiting some of the wonderful destinations this world has to offer. However, I’m not going to let this wanderlust put myself and others in danger. While we all ride out this pandemic, let’s take this time to reset and reconnect with those around us. The world will still be there for exploring once this is all over.
Get the best of Forbes to your inbox with the latest insights from experts across the globe.
JT Genter
As a digital nomad for nearly three years, JT's travels prove that credit card rewards can drastically reduce the cost of travel. JT worked for a decade as a tax…Read More
...
May 6, 2020,04:30pm EDT
Brands That Are Giving Back During The COVID-19 Crisis
Korin MillerContributor
Forbes Personal ShopperContributor Group
Shopping
All products and services featured are independently selected by Forbes Shopping contributors and editors. When you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission.
Watching the COVID-19 crisis unfold from home can make you feel so…helpless. Practicing social distancing and staying at home as much as possible is one way to do your part. But if you’re able to, you can also help move the needle with your wallet.
There are several charities working hard to help essential workers and those impacted by the pandemic, and donating to one of them can make a difference. Many brands have also stepped up and are pledging to help in a variety of different ways. Of course, the best way to give money to these causes is to donate directly. But if you’re already planning to make purchases for things you need, buying from a company that’s also giving back can help send extra money toward coronavirus relief and aid.
Here’s a list of brands that are giving back during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Home & Kitchen Brands
Boll & Branch: The bedding company will donate 10% of its proceeds to provide mattresses and pillows to emergency operations. Think organic, fair-trade linens that last.
Equal Parts: This high-end cookware company is donating 2% of its sales to the Food Bank for New York City and relief funds led by chefs. Equal Parts’ nested pots and pans are great for saving space.
Helix Sleep: The mattress and bedding company is donating 10% of its proceeds toward medical mattresses for COVID-19 relief. Helix Sleep has a wide range of mattresses for different sleep needs and price points.
Parachute Handmade Ceramic Vase PARACHUTE
Made In Cookware: The DTC cookware company is donating 15% of all sales from the Southern Smoke Collection to Southern Smoke, a nonprofit that is helping people in the food and beverage industry. You’ll find restaurant-grade pots and pans to upgrade your home kitchen.
Open Spaces: This home storage brand is donating 2% of website sales to the Food Bank for New York City and chef-led relief funds. Open Spaces features plenty of colored wire baskets and sleek underbed storage to help organize your home.
Otherland: The scented candle company is donating 10% of proceeds to the Food Bank for New York City when you use the code “SUNSHINE” at checkout. You’ll spot delicious-smelling candles you can buy a la cart or use to create a customized three-pack.
Parachute: The home decor company is donating face masks to those in need when a customer buys a pack of five face masks. The masks are currently sold out but the next batch is available for pre-order. In the meantime, look for elevated decor and bedding to outfit your home.
Grocery & Delivery Services
Milk Bar B’day Cake Truffles MILK BAR
DoorDash: As part of a partnership with United Way Worldwide, the delivery service is sending groceries and prepared meals to households in need. Use the website or app to have food delivered from just about anywhere.
FreshDirect: The grocery delivery service allows you to add a donation to your order to buy food for people in need through New York Common Pantry. FreshDirect is a quick and easy way to have all your grocery needs filled.
Freshly: The meal delivery service has partnered with Nestlé to donate $500,000 to Meals on Wheels America. Have chef-created, healthy meals delivered right to your door.
Hydrant: The hydration-focused company is donating 6,000 rapid rehydration packs to doctors, nurses, and hospital administrators, as well as offering free products to healthcare workers who DM them on Instagram. Hydrants drink packs infuse electrolytes into your beverages without all the added sugar that comes with sports drinks.
Magic Spoon MAGIC SPOON
Milk Bar: The famous bakery is donating to the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund. Don’t miss their notoriously yummy birthday day cake truffles.
Magic Spoon: The healthy cereal company is donating 20,000 boxes of cereal to children in New York City. Think tasty high protein, low carb cereals in fun boxes.
Pop Up Grocer: The grocery delivery box company is donating 10% of proceeds from their grocery, home, and body care products to Feeding America. Sign up to get new, interesting grocery products delivered to your doorstep.
Purple Carrot: The plant-based meal delivery service is donating a percentage of all sales to Feeding America through the end of May. Purple Carrot offers up everything you need to eat more plant-based foods at home.
Clothing & Accessories
Wwake WWAKE
Allbirds: This shoe brand is distributing free Tuke Matcha Wool Runners to healthcare workers in the U.S. Stock up on comfy, celebrity-loved sneakers here.
Adidas: The athletic company has donated $3.2 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and is producing 18,000 3D-printed face shields a week for first responders and healthcare professionals in the U.S. Don’t miss funky athleisure and must-have sneakers.
Bonobos: The men’s clothing store is donating 10% of sales to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response for the World Health Organization. Don’t miss their cool-patterned shirts and sleek sweats.
Disney: The much-loved brand is donating one million cloth face masks to children and families in underserved and vulnerable communities across the U.S. Shop sweet athleisure, Mickey-themed kitchen supplies, and fun Disney trinkets.
Everlane: This clothing company has a line called the 100% Human Collection, which gives 100% of the profits to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Everlane is a great spot for basic tees and classic looks.
Modern Citizen: The chic clothing store will donate $10 from every order of $150 or more to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Don’t miss their sleek and trendy dresses.
Nike: The company has partnered with Oregon Health & Science University to provide full-face shields and powered and air-purifying respirator lenses to front-line workers. Load up on all of your athletic gear and athleisure here.
Nordstrom: The upscale retailer and its affiliates have partnered with Kaas Tailored, Providence, and Ascension to create more than 100,000 masks. Look for everything from pretty totes to upmarket household items, and everything in between.
Paige: The fashion brand is donating 20% of all profits to St. Vincent Meals on Wheels. Come for the looks; Don’t leave without scoring new jeans.
Rhone: This men’s clothing brand is donating 10% of all its proceeds to the Direct Relief Foundation. Rhone has a wide variety of athleisure to check out.
Universal Standard: The size-inclusive brand is giving medical workers a free piece of clothing from the Foundation collection. (Any medical worker who is interested should email us@universalstandard.net.) The company’s form-fitting dresses suit just about any body type.
Vida: The fashion brand is donating 10% of their profits to the San Francisco Marin Food Bank and the Food Bank for New York City to support people impacted by COVID-19. Check out pretty scarves, essential tees, and select gear for your home.
Wwake: The jewelry company launched an effort to pick up and deliver donated PPE to New York City medical workers over Instagram, and are donating one jewelry gift to a different medical worker nominated by followers every Friday as a thank you for their work. Think statement-making jewels with a fun twist.
Zappos: The shoe store has partnered with Crocs for the “Free Pair for Healthcare” initiative, which donates to healthcare workers. From casual sandals to athletic shoes, they’ve got you covered.
Beauty & Grooming Brands
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Model Lindsey Wixson is seen backstage at the MSGM fashion show on February 22, 2020 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images) GETTY IMAGES
Goody: The hair company has donated thousands of elastics and head wraps to hospitals in New York City and Virginia. Don’t miss their ouchless hair ties, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
The Honest Company: The eco-friendly company has committed to donating 3 million diapers, 30,000 packs of wipes, and 20,000 personal care products to help children in need. Don’t miss their adorable, Earth-friendly printed diapers, and environmentally-safe body washes.
Kiehl’s: This beauty brand is donating 500,000 meals to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. The company features a wide range of skincare, lotions, masks, and hair products to suit all skin and hair types.
Lancer: The skincare brand is giving you 20% off your purchase when you use the code GIVEBACK, and donating 10% of the proceeds to No Kid Hungry. Stock up on peels and masks to give skin a boost.
Lush: This cleansing giant has donated thousands of scent-free soap products to hospitals, airports, and frontline workers. Snatch up pretty, yummy-smelling soaps that make great gifts here.
MAC Cosmetics: The beauty company is donating $10 million to help high-risk people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scope out statement-making lipsticks, fun palettes, and classic makeup supplies.
Orly: The nail company is creating and donating 10,000 hand sanitizers to the city of Los Angeles. You’ll find hot colors, basic shades, and more manicure supplies.
Sexy Hair: Sexy Hair has donated more than 1,500 dry shampoos to hospital workers across the U.S. Find your volumizing spray and go-to dry shampoo here.
Sun Bum: This beachy brand has donated hand sanitizer, moisturizers and other personal care products to people and organizations on the front line. It’s also sent gift cards to independent surf shops to help employees buy essentials. Don’t miss Sun Bum’s cruelty-free, vegan sunscreen and heat protectant spray for hair.
Thinx: The period-focused company is providing healthcare workers with free period products. They sent a donation of 1200 products directly to healthcare workers in Wuhan, China, and they’re donating to hospitals in New York City. Shop everything from period-friendly high-waisted boy shorts to thongs.
Tom’s of Maine: The natural hygiene company has supplied $500,000 of its products to help frontline workers. Don’t miss their natural toothpastes and deodorants.
Consumer Tech
GETTY
AT&T Wireless: The phone company is offering a 25% discount on unlimited wireless service to military members, veterans, and first responders through the end of May.
Apple: The tech giant has sourced and gathered 20 million masks, donating at least 10 million of them to healthcare workers in the U.S. They’re also designing medical face masks. Check out the Apple Watch Series 5 or affordable iPhone SE.
Audible: This audiobook streaming company isn’t charging to stream a collection of educational (and fun) kids’ books. Get all of your audiobook needs filled here.
B&H Photo: The photo and video brand has partnered with their suppliers to donate gear to the teams at Mount Sinai and other New York City hospitals to help medical workers stay in touch with loved ones. Get high-tech gear at affordable prices.
Casetify: The tech accessories company is giving 100% of proceeds from the new Casetify UV Sanitizer to the GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund. Don’t miss their slim phone protectors in a wide range of styles.
Loom: The company’s software lets users share their screen, webcam, and microphone. Loom has made its Loom Pro service free to all educators to help with online learning, and removed recording limits on its free plan. Use this to help make presentations for work or for loved ones.
PopSockets: The phone accessories brand created two new PopSockets to support Feeding America and Doctors Without Borders. A hundred percent of the proceeds from their Trust Me I’m a Dogtor and Open Your Heart PopSockets go toward the respective charities.
Razer: The gaming company is converting some of its gaming manufacturing lines to create and donate 1 million masks to countries in need. Load up on gaming friendly consoles and headsets here.
Korin Miller
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JT GenterContributor
AdvisorContributor Group
Personal Finance
We are all ready for things to return to normal. For many people, normal may involve going to restaurants and bars, having dinner with friends or going to church. For me, “normal” involves living out of a backpack and traveling over 250,000 miles each year to countries all around the world. Suffice to say, my nomadic life is on hold for the foreseeable future.
Happy male about to fly overseas
GETTY
Through the end of June, I’ve canceled trips to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Germany, Singapore, India, Morocco and France due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While I’m sad to miss out on these trips, I’m grateful that my family and I have remained healthy so far.
But, what is it going to take for us to start traveling again? Will airlines need to block middle seats and require face coverings for flying to go back to normal? Can hotels reliably clean rooms and common areas enough to prevent spread between guests? All of that remains to be seen.
As I remain grounded, I’m considering the aspects I’ll use to determine when to start traveling again. As a largely international traveler, I’m focusing on international travel. However, a lot of the same factors are just as important to domestic air travel returning to normal.
Reduced Travel Advisories
On March 19, the U.S. State Department issued a Global Level 4 Advisory telling potential travelers “Do Not Travel.” Then on March 27, the U.S. Center for Disease Control issued its highest travel advisory: a Level 3 Warning to “Avoid Nonessential Travel—Widespread Ongoing Transmission.”
Similarly, health departments all over the world have advised their residents and potential travelers against traveling.
As antsy as I am to get back on the road, I’m waiting until these advisories have been lifted before I consider non-essential travel again. For domestic air travel, I’m going to wait for the CDC advisory to be lowered. For international travel, I’ll be waiting for both the U.S. State Department and the destination country’s health department to lower advisories.
Reopening of Borders
In mid-March, my wife and I planned to visit Zimbabwe and Zambia to see Victoria Falls. But as we planned to head north from South Africa, we found out that we wouldn’t be able to do so. In order to enter Zimbabwe, visitors needed to produce a negative coronavirus test result. And we couldn’t find a way to get tested in time.
While that was a soft border closure, many countries have since completely shut borders to visitors. In our case, even if we wanted to keep our trips to Germany, Singapore or India, we wouldn’t be able to as each country has banned visitors from entering.
At a minimum countries will need to start opening their borders for international travel to be possible again. There are discussions that Australia, Spain and Italy may not reopen their borders until at least the end of 2020. Considering the lack of adequate testing and rampant spread in the U.S., Americans may face continuing restrictions even when limited travel resumes.
It’s not just international borders that are currently shut. Hawaii is one of several states that is requiring a 14-day quarantine for all arriving passengers. Unless you want to spend your two weeks of vacation in quarantine, it’s going to be best to wait to visit the 50th state.
Reintroduction of Airline Routes
It’s not just borders that are going to have to reopen. Airlines are going to have to restart routes before we will be able to start traveling again. With airlines cutting international capacity by 80 to 90%, destinations aren’t nearly as accessible as before.
Personally, I’ve had trips to Brisbane, Casablanca, Bangalore and Sydney all canceled as a direct result of Qantas and American Airlines canceling routes to these destinations. In each case, an alternative wasn’t even offered by the airline. Instead, the only option was a refund.
And it might take a while for these links to be reconnected. The Brisbane, Casablanca and Bangalore routes were canceled until an unspecified date in 2021. And American Airlines has canceled all flights to Australia and New Zealand through late October 2020.
Hotels Resume Normal Operations
A large number of hotels and resorts have closed due to COVID-19. As of mid-April, Marriott had closed more than 25% of its hotels worldwide. Around 1,000 IHG hotels were closed as of April 30. And there are already reports that some hotels will never reopen.
Even when hotels have decided to remain open, they are typically doing so with a reduced amount of service—from eliminating breakfast to reducing housekeeping. So, now certainly isn’t the time to go on that once-of-a-lifetime trip to the Maldives or even a beach getaway to the Caribbean.
Once hotels resume normal operations, it’s going to be a clear indicator that travel is returning to normal. With that said, some hotels may wait for demand to rebound before taking the costly step of reopening. And it might make sense for hotel brands to keep some hotels closed even longer where they have multiple options nearby.
Coronavirus Immunity is Confirmed
Multiple testing companies have rolled out coronavirus antibody tests. While these tests will indicate if someone has coronavirus antibodies, we don’t yet know for sure whether or not these antibodies will prevent further infection.
With that said, if I can confirm that I have antibodies that can prevent further infections and spread, I’d love to start supporting airlines, hotels, restaurants and destinations by traveling again. I agree with Delta CEO Ed Bastian that we could soon have a future with “immunity passports” enabling those that are known to be immune to get back to traveling sooner.
Rapid Testing in Airports
When it comes to traveling, you usually aren’t in a more-crowded situation than when flying. I think a lot of travelers would feel better getting on a plane if they knew everyone on the flight had just tested negative for coronavirus.
As testing technology gets faster, cheaper and more widely available, I could foresee having rapid-result testing done as a condition of entering an airport. Some overseas airports have security checks at airport entrances, and I could see having something similar for COVID-19 testing.
While this might sound far-fetched, rapid testing before flights has already been utilized. In mid-April, Emirates tested all passengers before a flight from Dubai to Tunis using tests that produced results in 10 minutes. It seems that type of testing currently requires too much of an investment from airlines at this point, but the economics could change soon.
Fast and Effective Cleaning Measures
Scientists are continuing to study the most effective way of killing the virus on surfaces—whether it’s by using disinfectant sprays or UVC light. The potential market for surface disinfectants is going to be huge as we continue through this pandemic, so we can count on any breakthroughs to quickly be brought to market.
When airlines and hotels can quickly and safely disinfect surfaces—and demonstrate that they are effectively doing so—I will personally feel a lot safer traveling. That’s especially true if combined with the rapid testing of passengers.
Lack of Wide Community Spread
My wife and I traveled to Hong Kong and Singapore in February despite there being cases there. We consulted travel advisories—which didn’t warn against travel at the time—and we figured the risk was low, there were appropriate countermeasures in place and we made sure to wear a mask and practice hand hygiene.
Until a vaccine is developed and widely distributed, there’s going to be some risk from traveling—both of getting sick and of unintentionally spreading the disease. Still, I wouldn’t rule out travel to places where there is a lack of community spread—especially if I can confirm that I’m not carrying the virus.
A Vaccine in Wide Circulation
Of course, the holy grail in the fight against COVID-19 is the development and wide scale distribution of an effective vaccine. Hopefully, we won’t have to wait for this to happen before we can safely travel, but it will be a game-changer in letting all aspects of life return to normal.
After having COVID-19 decimate the airline industry, I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see airlines require proof of vaccination to travel. While that might seem like a wild idea to some travelers, some international travelers are familiar with having to show an International Certificate of Vaccination “yellow card” to enter countries.
I could foresee this yellow card being essential to all traveling, with the coronavirus immunization stamp joining yellow fever, Hepatitis A/B and other vaccinations.
Bottom Line
As someone who’s flown over 1,000,000 miles by air in the past four years, I can’t wait to get back in the skies to start visiting some of the wonderful destinations this world has to offer. However, I’m not going to let this wanderlust put myself and others in danger. While we all ride out this pandemic, let’s take this time to reset and reconnect with those around us. The world will still be there for exploring once this is all over.
Get the best of Forbes to your inbox with the latest insights from experts across the globe.
JT Genter
As a digital nomad for nearly three years, JT's travels prove that credit card rewards can drastically reduce the cost of travel. JT worked for a decade as a tax…Read More
...
May 6, 2020,04:30pm EDT
Brands That Are Giving Back During The COVID-19 Crisis
Korin MillerContributor
Forbes Personal ShopperContributor Group
Shopping
All products and services featured are independently selected by Forbes Shopping contributors and editors. When you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission.
Watching the COVID-19 crisis unfold from home can make you feel so…helpless. Practicing social distancing and staying at home as much as possible is one way to do your part. But if you’re able to, you can also help move the needle with your wallet.
There are several charities working hard to help essential workers and those impacted by the pandemic, and donating to one of them can make a difference. Many brands have also stepped up and are pledging to help in a variety of different ways. Of course, the best way to give money to these causes is to donate directly. But if you’re already planning to make purchases for things you need, buying from a company that’s also giving back can help send extra money toward coronavirus relief and aid.
Here’s a list of brands that are giving back during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Home & Kitchen Brands
Boll & Branch: The bedding company will donate 10% of its proceeds to provide mattresses and pillows to emergency operations. Think organic, fair-trade linens that last.
Equal Parts: This high-end cookware company is donating 2% of its sales to the Food Bank for New York City and relief funds led by chefs. Equal Parts’ nested pots and pans are great for saving space.
Helix Sleep: The mattress and bedding company is donating 10% of its proceeds toward medical mattresses for COVID-19 relief. Helix Sleep has a wide range of mattresses for different sleep needs and price points.
Parachute Handmade Ceramic Vase PARACHUTE
Made In Cookware: The DTC cookware company is donating 15% of all sales from the Southern Smoke Collection to Southern Smoke, a nonprofit that is helping people in the food and beverage industry. You’ll find restaurant-grade pots and pans to upgrade your home kitchen.
Open Spaces: This home storage brand is donating 2% of website sales to the Food Bank for New York City and chef-led relief funds. Open Spaces features plenty of colored wire baskets and sleek underbed storage to help organize your home.
Otherland: The scented candle company is donating 10% of proceeds to the Food Bank for New York City when you use the code “SUNSHINE” at checkout. You’ll spot delicious-smelling candles you can buy a la cart or use to create a customized three-pack.
Parachute: The home decor company is donating face masks to those in need when a customer buys a pack of five face masks. The masks are currently sold out but the next batch is available for pre-order. In the meantime, look for elevated decor and bedding to outfit your home.
Grocery & Delivery Services
Milk Bar B’day Cake Truffles MILK BAR
DoorDash: As part of a partnership with United Way Worldwide, the delivery service is sending groceries and prepared meals to households in need. Use the website or app to have food delivered from just about anywhere.
FreshDirect: The grocery delivery service allows you to add a donation to your order to buy food for people in need through New York Common Pantry. FreshDirect is a quick and easy way to have all your grocery needs filled.
Freshly: The meal delivery service has partnered with Nestlé to donate $500,000 to Meals on Wheels America. Have chef-created, healthy meals delivered right to your door.
Hydrant: The hydration-focused company is donating 6,000 rapid rehydration packs to doctors, nurses, and hospital administrators, as well as offering free products to healthcare workers who DM them on Instagram. Hydrants drink packs infuse electrolytes into your beverages without all the added sugar that comes with sports drinks.
Magic Spoon MAGIC SPOON
Milk Bar: The famous bakery is donating to the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund. Don’t miss their notoriously yummy birthday day cake truffles.
Magic Spoon: The healthy cereal company is donating 20,000 boxes of cereal to children in New York City. Think tasty high protein, low carb cereals in fun boxes.
Pop Up Grocer: The grocery delivery box company is donating 10% of proceeds from their grocery, home, and body care products to Feeding America. Sign up to get new, interesting grocery products delivered to your doorstep.
Purple Carrot: The plant-based meal delivery service is donating a percentage of all sales to Feeding America through the end of May. Purple Carrot offers up everything you need to eat more plant-based foods at home.
Clothing & Accessories
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Allbirds: This shoe brand is distributing free Tuke Matcha Wool Runners to healthcare workers in the U.S. Stock up on comfy, celebrity-loved sneakers here.
Adidas: The athletic company has donated $3.2 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and is producing 18,000 3D-printed face shields a week for first responders and healthcare professionals in the U.S. Don’t miss funky athleisure and must-have sneakers.
Bonobos: The men’s clothing store is donating 10% of sales to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response for the World Health Organization. Don’t miss their cool-patterned shirts and sleek sweats.
Disney: The much-loved brand is donating one million cloth face masks to children and families in underserved and vulnerable communities across the U.S. Shop sweet athleisure, Mickey-themed kitchen supplies, and fun Disney trinkets.
Everlane: This clothing company has a line called the 100% Human Collection, which gives 100% of the profits to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Everlane is a great spot for basic tees and classic looks.
Modern Citizen: The chic clothing store will donate $10 from every order of $150 or more to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Don’t miss their sleek and trendy dresses.
Nike: The company has partnered with Oregon Health & Science University to provide full-face shields and powered and air-purifying respirator lenses to front-line workers. Load up on all of your athletic gear and athleisure here.
Nordstrom: The upscale retailer and its affiliates have partnered with Kaas Tailored, Providence, and Ascension to create more than 100,000 masks. Look for everything from pretty totes to upmarket household items, and everything in between.
Paige: The fashion brand is donating 20% of all profits to St. Vincent Meals on Wheels. Come for the looks; Don’t leave without scoring new jeans.
Rhone: This men’s clothing brand is donating 10% of all its proceeds to the Direct Relief Foundation. Rhone has a wide variety of athleisure to check out.
Universal Standard: The size-inclusive brand is giving medical workers a free piece of clothing from the Foundation collection. (Any medical worker who is interested should email us@universalstandard.net.) The company’s form-fitting dresses suit just about any body type.
Vida: The fashion brand is donating 10% of their profits to the San Francisco Marin Food Bank and the Food Bank for New York City to support people impacted by COVID-19. Check out pretty scarves, essential tees, and select gear for your home.
Wwake: The jewelry company launched an effort to pick up and deliver donated PPE to New York City medical workers over Instagram, and are donating one jewelry gift to a different medical worker nominated by followers every Friday as a thank you for their work. Think statement-making jewels with a fun twist.
Zappos: The shoe store has partnered with Crocs for the “Free Pair for Healthcare” initiative, which donates to healthcare workers. From casual sandals to athletic shoes, they’ve got you covered.
Beauty & Grooming Brands
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Model Lindsey Wixson is seen backstage at the MSGM fashion show on February 22, 2020 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images) GETTY IMAGES
Goody: The hair company has donated thousands of elastics and head wraps to hospitals in New York City and Virginia. Don’t miss their ouchless hair ties, especially if you have a sensitive scalp.
The Honest Company: The eco-friendly company has committed to donating 3 million diapers, 30,000 packs of wipes, and 20,000 personal care products to help children in need. Don’t miss their adorable, Earth-friendly printed diapers, and environmentally-safe body washes.
Kiehl’s: This beauty brand is donating 500,000 meals to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund. The company features a wide range of skincare, lotions, masks, and hair products to suit all skin and hair types.
Lancer: The skincare brand is giving you 20% off your purchase when you use the code GIVEBACK, and donating 10% of the proceeds to No Kid Hungry. Stock up on peels and masks to give skin a boost.
Lush: This cleansing giant has donated thousands of scent-free soap products to hospitals, airports, and frontline workers. Snatch up pretty, yummy-smelling soaps that make great gifts here.
MAC Cosmetics: The beauty company is donating $10 million to help high-risk people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scope out statement-making lipsticks, fun palettes, and classic makeup supplies.
Orly: The nail company is creating and donating 10,000 hand sanitizers to the city of Los Angeles. You’ll find hot colors, basic shades, and more manicure supplies.
Sexy Hair: Sexy Hair has donated more than 1,500 dry shampoos to hospital workers across the U.S. Find your volumizing spray and go-to dry shampoo here.
Sun Bum: This beachy brand has donated hand sanitizer, moisturizers and other personal care products to people and organizations on the front line. It’s also sent gift cards to independent surf shops to help employees buy essentials. Don’t miss Sun Bum’s cruelty-free, vegan sunscreen and heat protectant spray for hair.
Thinx: The period-focused company is providing healthcare workers with free period products. They sent a donation of 1200 products directly to healthcare workers in Wuhan, China, and they’re donating to hospitals in New York City. Shop everything from period-friendly high-waisted boy shorts to thongs.
Tom’s of Maine: The natural hygiene company has supplied $500,000 of its products to help frontline workers. Don’t miss their natural toothpastes and deodorants.
Consumer Tech
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AT&T Wireless: The phone company is offering a 25% discount on unlimited wireless service to military members, veterans, and first responders through the end of May.
Apple: The tech giant has sourced and gathered 20 million masks, donating at least 10 million of them to healthcare workers in the U.S. They’re also designing medical face masks. Check out the Apple Watch Series 5 or affordable iPhone SE.
Audible: This audiobook streaming company isn’t charging to stream a collection of educational (and fun) kids’ books. Get all of your audiobook needs filled here.
B&H Photo: The photo and video brand has partnered with their suppliers to donate gear to the teams at Mount Sinai and other New York City hospitals to help medical workers stay in touch with loved ones. Get high-tech gear at affordable prices.
Casetify: The tech accessories company is giving 100% of proceeds from the new Casetify UV Sanitizer to the GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund. Don’t miss their slim phone protectors in a wide range of styles.
Loom: The company’s software lets users share their screen, webcam, and microphone. Loom has made its Loom Pro service free to all educators to help with online learning, and removed recording limits on its free plan. Use this to help make presentations for work or for loved ones.
PopSockets: The phone accessories brand created two new PopSockets to support Feeding America and Doctors Without Borders. A hundred percent of the proceeds from their Trust Me I’m a Dogtor and Open Your Heart PopSockets go toward the respective charities.
Razer: The gaming company is converting some of its gaming manufacturing lines to create and donate 1 million masks to countries in need. Load up on gaming friendly consoles and headsets here.
Korin Miller
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This is a great recipe. Prepare yourself for a heartattack on a plate but well worth it. I added onion powder, garlic powder, paprika and used crumbled ritz crackers as the topping. I thought the sauce was too runny when I poured it in the pan, but as the others said, it really thickens up when in the oven. My 2 year old loves it as do we. We accompanied it with steamed broccoli for a little healthy upswing.