4 Ways to Travel Safely During a Pandemic
As someone who was in the midst of travel in March when restrictions began, drove across the USA and back in the summer, flew to three states as Fall began, and moved internationally on the cusp of a second wave I have figured out my best methods for traveling safely and staying COVID free in 2020. Here are some of the things I’ve done this year while adapting to and enjoying this new era of travel.*
1. Research
The first thing I’ve done while planning my travels this year was to do a quick Google search on the state, city or country I wanted to visit. This is a crucial step to ensuring that you are not walking into a COVID “hot-zone,” by seeing the number of cases and deaths in a location. Researching will also clarify any possible travel restrictions and/or self-isolation mandates in place that could prevent you from entering state lines and country borders.
Pro Tip: Ensure that face-covering mandates are in effect wherever you go!
2. Bring Cleaning Supplies
This may be the most important way to keep you and your surroundings safe and sanitized. Everywhere I’ve gone this year, I’ve had masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and disinfectant spray. On my cross-country road trip, my mom and I sanitized every time we left the car and returned, we disinfected our restaurant and hotel surroundings, and of course we wore our masks when in public. Luckily most public spaces will share with customers that they are properly disinfecting, but it doesn’t hurt to do it yourself for an extra layer of protection!
Pro Tip: For extra piece of mind, wearing gloves are great going through airplane security and touching common areas like gas station pumps.
3. Socially Distanced Activities
Although the ways we interact with one another have changed drastically, we can get creative with the public activities we do; and still be safe. My trip across the country was in-part to celebrate my Graduation with family in Ohio. We had a great socially distanced Grad Party with all the normal party elements, and the new expectations of engagement like mask wearing, social distancing and hand sanitizer at every corner. Public activities can be enjoyed as well, if you get creative. Bars, parties, and packed sports events may be closed but I’ve enjoyed beach trips on the Oregon Coast, zip-lining in Las Vegas and other outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: You can always bring your own turn-up juice!
4. Know Yourself, Know Your Health
It is most important to understand your own health circumstances when traveling and coming into contact with others. If you are experiencing any COVID-like symptoms, or simply have a gut-feeling that you should stay home, stay home. Nobody enjoys traveling with fear or sickness. So, to keep yourself safe and to consider others, trust yourself to make the best decisions for your personal health.
Pro Tip: Pack a little cough/cold medicine and cough drops for your trip, just in case.
*I am not a healthcare professional. Travel at your own risk.
