Planning A Trip During COVID-19

In the past two years, what most people were concerned about was planning their trip. They mostly thought about the kind of rental car insurance or where they would stay while away from home. Now, one has to think about all of that while traveling along with their safety from the virus.

While COVID-19 is there, people must think carefully about where they are going. Moreover, how they will get there, and what they must do to ensure their safety. Many people find the idea of needing to take this many measures as something intimidating.

However, few are ready to go on a trip during this pandemic because they have grown tired of being indoors. Even while many experts advise staying at home, they still provide travel tips for people who wish to travel.

Planning your trip

Since a large number of people have experienced financial issues due to COVID-19, they have to travel on a budget. With this in mind, it’s essential to make a budget with items that you usually wouldn’t have needed before coronavirus.

Usually, it was fine to take your normal toiletries like soap, lotion, and toothbrush. But, now with COVID-19 on, there are a few more things you’ll need on your vacation:

• Masks, as well as backup masks
• Baggies to store your masks in
• Wipes with antiseptic properties
• Spray disinfectant
• Hand sanitizer
• Spray bottles and soap
• Sunglasses or face shield
• Extra water bottles
• Tissues and napkins

It is great to get these items before you even begin shopping for all the extra fun items for your vacation. Being pretty and fashionable is great, but keeping well and alive is much better and wise.

Opt for easy and take a road trip

After identifying your essentials for the trip, it’s time to plan where you want to go. A nice trip abroad sounds beyond exciting and prices could be in your favor too. However, it may not be the best idea during COVID-19.

Travel restrictions may apply, and you may need to quarantine yourself after arriving in a foreign country. While traveling away from home, you increase the chances of catching and transmitting the virus. Thus, a short journey close to home would be ideal. It will reduce contact with people,  as you will be driving mostly.

Traveling by your own car

When you travel by car, you have greater control over who you come into touch with. It reduces your danger of being exposed. Also, by using your own car, you don’t have to worry about finding and insuring a rental automobile.

Traveling by rental car

On the other hand, when traveling by rental car, it’s essential to clean the car first. You never know who was traveling in the car before and that it could be dangerous for you. Moreover, you also come in contact with more people while searching, booking, and paying for the vehicle.

However, if you’re thinking to take a road trip, here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Bring your own refreshments to avoid contact with others.
• Always wear masks when around other people.
• Keep wipes and sanitizers on you always.
• Travel during off-peak time. Avoid leaving on weekends, as public rest stops will be more packed.

Moreover, make sure to keep your roadside assistance coverage up to date to avoid any unpredictable accidents or trouble.

Staying safe while flying

It is advisable to fly only in an emergency. In case someone is sick or you have to urgently get somewhere, then only choose to fly. Also, try to book nonstop flights. This will reduce your chances of meeting people while traveling.

• After booking the flight, check if they have proper safety measures. For example, systems for social distancing, hand sanitizers, and handwashes.
• Learn what the airline has to offer you against COVID. Also, carry those essential things which they are not offering.
• Always journey with your masks on. Keep disinfectant spray, wipes, and hand sanitizer on you.
• Arrive at least two hours before your flight’s departure time. Since rushing things over leaves room for mistakes, it could be dangerous for you.

Preparing for your hotel room after arriving

You should always stay in premium hotels, especially during COVID-19, as their service is somewhat better in terms of safety. Pick a hotel that clearly states their regular cleaning and safety measures against COVID.

You should also pick hotels or rooms with proper air circulation. That you can identify if the rooms have windows or open balconies attached. Seeking a hotel with high-quality air conditioning and filtration also reduces the risks of virus contraction.

Above all, you need to have medical-grade disinfectant to clean your living space, whether it’s the hotel or your vehicle. You can purchase these disinfectants on your way, or from a store close to your home if you are flying. Disinfectants and sanitizers are available everywhere these days and you won’t have any problem finding them.

What to do on your vacation?

When traveling for the holidays, you may not wish to engage in outdoor activities due to the weather. However, doing so will be a good thing for your health. The free movement of air makes the transmission rate low and thus, it won’t harm you to be outside.

Therefore, it is advisable to take walks along the beach, or go on hikes through canyons or mountains. Taking bike rides across the city is also very good for your health. Rather transmission of the virus is high indoors, thus if possible, avoid eating indoors and in restaurants when it is crowded.

However, if you decide on an indoor activity, it is best to maintain a six feet distance from others. Moreover, always wear a mask and keep your hand sanitized.