Checklist for a COVID-Free Road Trip
In these unprecedented times, the best option to avoid the risk of getting infected from COVID-19 is to stay at home and follow quarantine regulations. However, being stuck at home for more than half the year eventually takes its toll. Boredom and agitation eventually creep in. You just want to get out of the house.
While air travel to another country is still a faraway dream, as it would involve a tight safety and security regulation, the good old road travel is a more convenient option. Driving down the winding mountain roads or warm sun-kissed shorelines sound relaxing, right?
Though most states have loosened their travel restrictions, it does not mean that we should loosen up on our travel safety precautions. We should still be mindful of staying safe and lowering our risk of getting infected by the virus. Here are the best safety travel tips in times of COVID-19 to include on your checklist.
Make Sure that Your Destination Is a Safe Zone
Before hitting up the road, it is best to check your planned travel destination. With this ongoing pandemic, state and local governments may have travel regulations, such as entry requirements and restrictions for arriving travelers. It is highly suggested that you check on state and local public health websites of your destination for any information.
No matter how much you are dying to go, it would be unwise to pick out a destination that has a number of COVID-19 infections. Select a destination that local governments recognize as safe zones. Check out also safe accommodation options available and be flexible with any changes that might occur during travel.
Pack Your Sanitation Essentials
After picking out a destination, it is time to start packing on your sanitation essentials. Pack on hand sanitizers with 60 percent alcohol content, disinfecting wet wipes, face masks and shields, disposable gloves, and even disposable plastic bags and tissues. It is advisable to bring with you more than enough. You never know what might happen along the road, so it is best to be prepared.
Include on your sanitation essentials medicines that you might need during the trip. As much as possible, refrain from unnecessary stopovers to purchase the items mentioned above. Furthermore, make sure that you check on the expiration dates of the items before packing them.
Observe Safety Precautions During Stopovers
During road trips, you cannot avoid going to restrooms to relieve yourself. Especially on long-hour trips, you might make multiple stopovers to public restrooms. Ensuring your safety during these bathroom breaks should be the number one priority.
After using the bathroom, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If water and soap are not available, use a hand sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol content. As much as possible, avoid touching surfaces. Use a tissue or disposable gloves if you have to. Observe the 6-foot distancing, and never forget to wear your face mask.
Pack Your Meals and Snacks
When traveling less than seven hours long, the best dining option is to pack your meals and snacks. Avoid getting out of your car as much as possible. Not to mention, dine-in service in restaurants in some states is still not allowed.
But if you do not like preparing your food, or you are traveling for more than seven hours, there are drive-thru options available like Taco Bell and Starbucks. Social distancing and safety precautions should still be observed when interacting with someone in the drive-thru window.
Check Vehicle Condition
When talking about road travel safety, do not forget on the list your vehicle condition. It is highly suggested having your SUV or sedan tuned-up before your planned trip. No one wants to have their car break down in the middle of a trip, especially during these times.
Whether you are driving an American, German, or Asian-manufactured vehicle, some of its parts may need replacement over time. Spark plugs, distributor cap, and rotor may require more than just cleaning. Before hitting the road, have your Subaru car checked for timing belt replacement, complete brake inspection, head gasket replacements, and other necessary maintenance procedures.
Once you have reached your destination, it does not mean your vigilance should stop there. Always practice social distancing and wear face masks in public. Avoid crowded places or situations that would put you at risk.
Another thing to put in mind when planning to have a road trip is that it is best to travel with just your household members. Sure, it is tempting to meet up with friends and relatives you have not seen for a long time, but that is highly risky.
With all that said, may you travel safely!
