From airport security lines to crowded gas stations, hotels to public restrooms, travel often involves close contact with others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have reminded us that “staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting sick.” But sometimes travel is a necessity. Whether it’s for family or to combat cabin fever and head out on a camping trip, knowing tips for safe travel during COVID-19 can help keep you well.
To protect yourself and others:
- Consider the risks. If you’re planning to travel by plane, train or bus, consider the proximity of yourself to others and your comfort level before you decide to go. If you’re staying in a hotel, check the website to see what precautions they’re taking and if amenities like restaurants, a gym or pool will be open. Also check out the hotel cancellation policy in case you decide not to go.
- Practice proper hygiene. Hygiene is just as essential while traveling as it is at home. Wash your hands with soap and water often and carry hand sanitizer (that contains at least 60% alcohol) for when you enter or exit public places. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others (as recommended by the CDC) and maintain distance from others, too.
- Pack snacks for the trip. To avoid unnecessary stops at gas stations, grocery stores or restaurants, pack non-perishable foods, healthy snacks and plenty of water.
- Sanitize your surroundings. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces along your journey. This includes vehicle door handles and the steering wheel, luggage handles, hotel surfaces like door handles, light switches, faucets and phones.
- Familiarize yourself with nearby medical care. Even if you’re traveling to a remote destination away from others, the CDC explains, “Going camping at a time when much of the United States is experiencing community spread of COVID-19 can pose a risk to you if you come in close contact with others or share public facilities (like restrooms or picnic areas) at campsites or along the trails.” When traveling, it’s a good practice to pack necessary items like a first-aid kit and know the way to the nearest hospital should you need medical care.
- Check state, local and employer travel guidelines. Before you leave for any type of travel, check the state and local guidelines at your final destination, along your route and at any planned stops. See if it’s safe in the region you’re planning to visit and check local regulations frequently for updates. Also check with your employer for any personal travel policies that may be in effect during this time.
Frankenmuth Insurance is taking measures to care for our customers throughout COVID-19. Explore other ways to protect yourself and others with insurance, too. Talk to an agent about home, auto and life insurance today.
