Whether or not travel should cease during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a hot topic since March. Sometimes life can’t be put on hold, and travel has to happen. If you choose to travel, make sure you do so safely. How can you safely travel during the pandemic? Here are some ways to make sure your vacation or family time is fun, without being a super-spreader:

Get Tested Prior To Leaving

One of the safest ways to travel is to make sure you aren’t positive for COVID-19. While this isn’t and shouldn’t be required, it’s a good way to ensure you aren’t spreading the virus to your destination location. 

Wear A Mask

Most airlines, resorts, etc. require masks to be worn, but wearing one even if they aren’t required will help keep you and those around you safe. Make sure you pack enough masks for the duration of your stay. Buying disposable ones is a great way to make sure you’re covered.

Bring Hand Sanitizer

Buy everyone in your travel group their own hand sanitizer and make sure to use it. Some places provide Germ-X, but it’s important to be prepared for those who don’t. If you’re traveling with kids, buy some cute germ x holders to make the use more fun.

Choose An Airline With Open Middle Seats

Many airlines have the middle seat open for the pandemic. This is the easiest way to ensure distancing on your flight. If your airline doesn’t offer open seats, try to sit with the party you’re traveling with. 

Look At COVID-19 Numbers For Your Destination Spot

Before you leave, look into the number of positive coronavirus tests at your destination. If the number is too high for comfort, you may wish to postpone your trip.

Drive If Possible

The easiest way to ensure your travels are safe is to drive, instead of fly. This way, you know you’re only in close quarters with your friends or family. Driving also allows you to be in control of where you choose to stop along the way.

Pack Cleaning Supplies

Although most destinations are taking extra precautions when it comes to cleaning, packing your own supplies will allow you to ensure that your space is clean. You can get individual packs of wipes for everyone in your party to wipe down tables, rides, hotel rooms, etc.

Pack Only A Carry-On

If you can, choose to pack all of your items in a carry-on so you can make sure that no one else touches your luggage, decreasing the spread of germs at the airport. This also saves time, which is an added bonus.

Check If Your Destination State Is Open

Several states have closed down at various times during the pandemic, so making sure your destination may not directly pertain to safe traveling, but it will save you time and money if you know to cancel or postpone your vacation before it’s too late. 

Get Tested When You Return

Before reuniting with your friends and returning to work, it’s smart to get tested to make sure that you didn’t get the virus during your travels. 

There are so many ways to travel during this time without putting life on hold. Following these simple steps will help you keep yourself and those around you safe. We’re wishing you safe travels during the pandemic! 

Whitney E
CABINET

Whitney is a senior majoring in communication at Mississippi State University. When she's not preparing for law school, you can find her online shopping or planning a trip to Disney World. She loves Ronald Reagan, traveling, and all things preppy.