COVID-19 has changed the way society functions as a whole, and traveling is certainly no exception. Travel restrictions and the high risk of contracting COVID-19 have forced people to redefine where they travel and the means of getting there. According to the CDC, the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to stay home and practice social distancing from others. That being said, if you must travel, there are ways that you can minimize the risk of contracting COVID-19 by following specific guidelines and tips.
Before you travel:
Research your destination.
If you are traveling to a destination with a high level of COVID-19 cases, you are increasing your chances of being exposed. If you cannot avoid this, make sure you take extra precautions while you are there.
Are you high at risk of contracting COVID-19?
If you or anyone you live or come in contact with is at high risk of serious complications from COVID-19, you may want to skip traveling altogether. Older adults or those with underlying health issues are more likely to have more symptoms of COVID-19, so make sure to think about the friends and loved ones (and even those you don’t know) that you could possibly infect.
Does the destination you are traveling to have restrictions?
Many destinations now have restrictions and guidelines for those who choose to travel to their cities. You may be asked to quarantine for a certain amount of time or risk being heavily fined. Make sure to do proper research about where you are traveling during this time. Keep in mind that the rules can change while you are traveling as well. Be prepared to stay longer in case of added restrictions.
Traveling Tips
- Social distance from people around you to the best of your abilities.
- Avoid touching public surfaces with your hands such as handrails, elevator buttons, countertops, etc.
- Remember to wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer with you. Wash your hands in warm water with soap for at least 20 seconds!
- If you are traveling by plane, use a sanitizing cloth to clean your area. Several airlines now offer sanitizing wipes before boarding.
- Wear a face mask and don’t take it off unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not touch your face.
- If you cough or sneeze, make sure you cover your face.
- When you reach your destination, try to spend your time doing outdoor activities. COVID-19 transmission is much lower outdoors. Being outdoors makes it easier to social distance from others, and who doesn’t love a little bit of nature?
- If you are not staying with family or friends, make sure your lodging is COVID-19 friendly. Do research before booking! Make sure they are following proper COVID-19 guidelines. Many Airbnb hosts are offering intensified cleaning and sanitizing services, so take advantage where you can.