Protect yourself and others from COVID-19 during your travels.
The pandemic has disrupted travel plans the world over. You’ve likely had to alter your own plans or cancel them altogether. But now that vaccines have been rolled out, is it safe to hit the road again? If you’ve been stuck at home for the last year, the thought of cruising down the highway again can be intoxicating. But even with a vaccine, COVID-19 will not disappear right away. It’s important to take precautions if you do travel.
It will take many months for most of the population to receive the vaccine. And even after you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, it may still be possible to spread the virus to someone who has not been vaccinated. So, if you do hit the road, keep these tips in mind:
First, don’t travel if any member of your party is sick. Second, before you decide whether and where to go, do some research. Check the websites of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel advice. Some cities and states are requesting that you quarantine in place for a certain amount of time upon arrival. These guidelines will change rapidly, so check often. Ask yourself these questions as you plan your road trip:
- Are you or others in your travel party at higher risk of sickness from COVID-19?
- Do you live with someone at higher risk for severe symptoms of COVID-19?
- Does your destination call for a quarantine or a COVID test upon arrival?
- Do you live in a city that calls for a quarantine or COVID test after your return home?
- Are the hotels, restaurants, or campgrounds you plan to visit open right now? If so, do they limit the number of guests to allow safe social distancing?
- Have you checked on the cleaning protocols of the place where you’ll stay?
- Are you traveling out of the country? If so, check daily for travel guidelines. These can change often
As more establishments begin to open their doors, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Bring these items along:
- Enough face masks per traveler to last the trip, plus extras
- Sanitizing wipes, gel, and/or disinfectant spray
- Digital thermometer and first-aid kit
- An ice chest with your own snacks, meals, water, and other drinks
And don’t forget, even if you are ready to get back on the road to discover the wonders of travel again, it may take time for others to get back to a feeling of normalcy. So, be courteous and respectful as you travel. While that’s good advice at any time, it holds especially true now. Keep in mind that many may still be at risk for the virus. These precautions may make travel a little more work than you’re used to, but doing so can help you and others stay safe. And what better way to relax and truly enjoy traveling again than taking a road trip?
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This information is not intended to take the place of regular medical care or advice. Please check with your doctor before using this information or beginning any self-care program.
References
Centers for Disease Control. (2020). Considerations for restaurant and bar operators. Retrieved from https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/88184
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Travel during COVID-19. Retrieved from https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/diseases/covid19
Cleveland Clinic. (2016). Travel medical kit. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12784-travel-medical-kit
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Covid-19 safety: Tips for travel, restaurants, salons and the gym. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-safety-tips/art-20485967
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Coronavirus travel advice. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-safe-travel-advice/art-20486965?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=housecall
This article was written by Jason Nielsen; edited by Candace Hodges; and, clinically reviewed by Justine Greene, MD.
