Whether you’re traveling for business or you simply miss hearing “Are we there yet?” on repeat, you may find yourself on the go for the first time in months. Summer is here and some restrictions have relaxed leaving many people to ask themselves, “How can I travel safely?”
The first thing you will need before leaving your house, is your mask. This includes anyone who is traveling with you. While this may sound uncomfortable, the CDC says, “Your face covering may protect them. Their face covering may protect you.” According to Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, “Cloth face coverings are one of the most powerful weapons we have to slow and stop the spread of the virus.”
Soap and water will always be the best tool for killing harmful germs, but when traveling, that’s not always practical. Travel sized hand sanitizer is going to be the best travel companion you can find. The sanitizer needs to be alcohol based and contain at least 60% alcohol. If you are flying, it’s good to know that the TSA will now let you carry on 12oz sanitizer bottles up from the previous size of 3.4oz.
Its ok to have fun and it’s something we could all use right now, but it must be done safely. The safer we are now, the sooner we can resume life as we knew it.. That means traveling is a different experience. Before going anywhere, check the travel restrictions on the area you are going, as well as any rules they may have. Its also a good idea to check out their case numbers from the past two weeks. Look for a steady decline.
You should also consider those you are traveling with. Is anyone high risk? Have they been social distancing properly? Another important thing to know are the quarantine rules of the state you are leaving. Will you have to miss work to self-quarantine when you come home?
Perhaps your work sends you away or maybe you need a mental health break and you just need to get out – and you can! Just be sure to do your research beforehand and be smart. With face masks, 6ft of distance, frequent hand washing, and an understanding of the new travel protocols, you can travel safely.
This is part one of a two-part series covering travel during a pandemic. Next month we’ll go into staying safe on the road, in the air, and wherever you may be staying.
*Never travel or leave your home if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
*If possible, pack your favorite hand soap or disinfectant!
