Lockdown travel rules UK | Do I need a mask? Lockdown rules for holiday makers in Northern Ireland

What are the current rules in Northern Ireland?

Like everywhere else in the UK the 2 metre social distancing rule apples and masks must be worn on public transport and moving around inside public buildings and hospitality venues. 

Currently up to six people from no more than two households can stay together overnight in a holiday accommodation. Children aged under 12 aren’t included in this number. This means single household families are fine for holiday trips to Northern Ireland, especially if they’re staying in a self contained accommodation like a static caravan. 

From the 5th of July (subject to review) 10 people from two households can meet inside a home. This number is increased to 15 if a household has more than ten people living in it. This might not sound super relevant to your caravan holiday in Northern Ireland but these new rules will allow you to plan bigger family get-togethers. 

If you're planning a holiday with extended family then these new rules make this a whole lot easier. 

There’s also a 15 person limit placed on the number of people you can meet outside but from any number of households. So if you made some friends on your holiday you can meet them in a group of up to 15 people on your caravan decking or in an outdoor communal area.

Can you go to the pub?

As of now, yes. 

But social distancing must be followed and you cannot sit in a group bigger than 6. Like everywhere else in the UK you’ll need to fill out a contact form or use a track and trace app to provide the NHS with your details in case you get exposed to an infected person. 

Currently no dancing or live music is permitted but this is set to be reviewed on the 5th of July.

Is it still safe to travel?

Because Northern Ireland is part of the UK it is also part of the common travel area (CTA) this means it isn’t on the UK’s travel traffic light lists like Portugal or France. This is because, although it’s over the sea from Britain, it’s essentially the same country. 

Also, as of the 24th of May, the advice from Northern Ireland healthcare professionals to “stay local” relaxed. Minister’s decided it was time to move away from that messaging and focus more on individual behaviour and responsibility than setting strict limits on where people could travel too. 

Officials in Northern Ireland are now allowing travel in and out of the area so locals can see friends and family in other parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This also means recreational travel to Northern Ireland is allowed too. But there are some rules to follow and hoops to jump through before you can enjoy your family holiday in one of our static caravans. 

Before you travel to Northern Ireland you must take a lateral flow test (LFD). This is a very quick, although slightly uncomfortable, test to let you know your Covid status. You should only travel if the test is negative. 

When traveling, if you’re on public transport you must adhere to social distancing and wear a face covering. 

Once you return from your trip to Northern Ireland you should also do a lateral flow test 2 and 8 days after your return. If either of those results come back positive you’ll have to isolate yourself and everyone you went on holiday with.

Ready to go on a caravanning holiday?

Northern Ireland is a great holiday destination and right now it's one of the few places in the world you can travel to without worrying about restrictions changing. If you’re UK based and looking to get away for a summer holiday Northern Ireland is the perfect location. 

At Lifestyle Homes we have a large selection of caravans to rent or buy for family getaways. You can see our available caravans here or contact us for more details.