7 Ways To Make Travel Work During COVID-19

Covid has completely transformed the way that we do most things and in many situations we are now required to trade convenience and even comfort for health and safety. One of my personal goals was to spend most of this year traveling, but back in March when the pandemic initially created havoc and chaos I and everyone else had to embrace a new life of quarantine and increased home activity. Although there are a significant amount of new cases being reported, many of us are learning to maneuver safely. For now, life will not be how it was prior to this year, but there are steps that we can take to enjoy some pleasures reasonably.

Travel was and still is of major concern, namely travel that involved time in the airport or stations that are typically characterized by crowds of people in close quarters. Although travel for leisure, especially internationally, is still not highly recommended, it is still very possible to do so in a way that minimizes risk and allows for social distancing and health safety. I have traveled a few times and as I go, I am learning ways to make it feasible and enjoyable.

1.Wear a mask.

I am imploring you; please wear a mask. Unfortunately, there are many people who undermine the importance and necessity of them when science has proven the increased risk when not wearing one. It would be irresponsible of me not to mention this first and foremost, as it is one of the simplest gestures you can make to magnify safety.

2. Take road trips.

This is one way to avoid the airport and flying altogether. Road trips may require a tad more mapping and planning if you intend to stop and stay various places along the way, but it’s also worth it to experience several different cities and to experience some of the beautiful sights you may see on a drive.

3. Plan for more outdoor experiences.

During my trip to Charleston, we spent a lot of time on the beach where, if not overly populated, it’s very possible to social distance. Angel Oak Tree was a simple and short little trip but it was outdoors with very few other people visiting, so it was also ideal. You’ll find often that many of the activities you can do outside will also be free, which is fantastic for our pockets. We also found restaurants that offered outdoor seating and only allowed a certain amount of patrons at a time; this way you aren’t seated directly next to another party.

4. Limit your time spent in a setting.

Many businesses have gotten efficient at getting people in and out, but you can do your part by making dining reservations or buying tickets and making appointments ahead of time for attractions. You can also utilize delivery apps or the pickup option to still experience local cuisine. If possible, I would also recommend traveling solo or only with one or two other people. The larger the party, the longer activities take and the more difficult it is to maneuver quickly and easily if you must be around other people.

I have been in the airport since the pandemic has started and there are still more people than you may be comfortable around. Here are some ways to decrease the anxiety of airport travel:

• Book early flights because most people still don’t prefer to fly early in the morning.

• Get to your gate early so that you can avoid having to sit next to many people while you wait to board.

• Try to only have carry-on luggage so you can avoid having to wait extensively at baggage claim when you get off of the plane.

• Schedule rideshare or a taxi so that you can get off of the plane and go straight to your transportation.

• Book your flight enough in advance to choose your seat and priority boarding. Avoid middle seats and select seats close to the front of the plane so that you don’t have to wait extensively when it’s time to deboard. You may also want to avoid the aisle seat where everyone on the plane has to walk by you.

5. Travel during the week.

This is something that I had not intentionally thought of until I got to my last trip and realized that everywhere we went there were few to no people. It occurred to us that part of the time we were there was during the week when most people are working, kids are in school, etc. If you’re trying to avoid crowded attractions and activities, go during the hours or days that are not popular leisure times.

6. take day trips.

Now is a good time to explore activities that are within a couple hours drive of you so that you can go and return in the same day, this way you don’t have to book accomodations. You may not necessarily want to fly or stay overnight, but you don’t necessarily have to spend all your time at home either. Find local wineries, breweries, markets, beaches, and other activities that are local and convenient but still a new or different experience.

7. Carry cleaning materials with you.

This is not always possible and you don’t have to be dramatic about it, but should you go somewhere to eat or sit or spend more than a few minutes, you can wipe the area down with antibacterial wipes or, depending on the setting, spray a small can of lysol to disinfect your area. You’ll also want to always have accessible hand sanitizer, as you’ll be touching doors and coming in contact with things that other people have touched. If you have to stay overnight somewhere, you can take your own cleaning materials and disinfect to your comfort level.

Of course, I am not an expert and none of these things are required, but I’m sharing from my personal travel experience because i’d like you to know that if you had travel plans, this year does not have to be a complete disappointment. It may take a little more caution and research to explore a new place in the midst of a pandemic, but it is absolutely conceivable. If you planned some larger trips and had to cancel or adjust, I would encourage you not to give up, but to travel and explore safely and within reason.