Before I get into it, I’d like to say that I am not actively traveling like I would in past years. I’m not flying at all but am limiting myself to a few places within driving distance. I know that airports are emptier than ever, but I’ve decided that it’s best for me to not fly until the situation changes. And international travel is out of the question for me at this point, especially due to travel bans.
But if you do want to travel right now, what does that look like?
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Where to Travel Right Now
Like I said, I don’t think travel is essential at this point, but only you can decide what works for you and your loved ones. I recommend limiting your reach to no more than five hours from your home, somewhere you could drive in a day. The longer a drive is, the more places you’ll have to stop to eat, get gas, and sleep, increasing your possible risk of infection or spreading.
But the good news is that there are so many places close to home that you’ve likely never been to. For me, it might be checking out some of Georgia’s incredible state parks or touring the small towns I usually bypass on the highway. Helen, Senoia, and Greensboro are all great destinations.
Check the infection rates of your potential destination and avoid it if it’s not possible to socially distance from others. Get tested before and after your trip. Also, consider the burden of local healthcare if you do get infected. If you do want to fly right now, check out the domestic deals now available on Scott’s Cheap Flights.
What Travel Looks Like
The only places I’ve gone since March are a day trip to Augusta to buy furniture for my house and to Charleston for a few days last month. For the day trip, I stayed in my car apart from one rest stop and drive-thru food and wore a mask.
In Charleston, I was fully prepared with hand sanitizer and masks at all times. I made reservations at places with strict measures, including required handwashing upon entering, masks while standing up, and curtains between tables.
Most places that I stayed went above and beyond, with hand sanitizer all around the property, elevators limited to individuals or families, and all employees in masks. But on King Street, there were a number of people out without masks as well as one bar on Shem Creek that didn’t seem to have any distancing. I thought a lot about the trip before I went, but feel like I was as safe as I could be.
Essential Safety Precautions
This should go without saying, but I will state it explicitly: DO NOT LEAVE YOUR HOUSE WITHOUT A MASK. Period. It puts others at risk, even in places where there is no mask requirement. It shows respect for the people that live in these communities where you want to vacation. And it’s the only way we will slow the spread.
I brought three masks to rotate during my stay. My friends at Speakeasy Travel have turned from the production of their popular pocket travel scarves to face masks, which they also donate to medical workers. They come in cute patterns and are reversible. I also got one from Sock Fancy, which is a bit thicker and has a pocket for filters.
Pack wet wipes to wipe down places that other people touch like door handles, plane seats, and remote controls. Hand sanitizer should also be kept on hand. Plastic gloves are another good item to have. You can also bring your own snacks so you don’t have to stop to eat.
Have you traveled during the pandemic? What other tips would you share?
Have you already recovered from Covid-19? Please consider donating plasma to help save the lives of others who have the virus. The American Red Cross is urgently seeking donors.
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