Traveling Safely During a Pandemic

December is one of the most popular months of the year for travel, and for some, this year is no exception. Some may be looking for a place to get away for the holidays, and some plan to visit family. Regardless, there are risks that come with traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic, and if you’re thinking about traveling this month, it’s important to know how to stay safe, and to ensure that those around you stay safe as well.

Here are a few tips regarding the best ways to travel safely:

• Before you book travel, check for infection rates and quarantine mandates at your destination.  This is an incredibly important first step to take before you choose your travel destination. After all, it’s hard to enjoy the place you’re visiting if you have to quarantine for 14 days once you get there. Check for local and statewide safety ordinances regarding masks, dining, and lodging so you can be prepared. And most importantly, research the destinations you’re considering – if one place has a high infection rate, it might be a good idea to consider someplace else.

• Traveling by air? Research airlines before you book.  Traveling in a cramped metal tube in the sky sounds like a recipe for disaster during a pandemic, but it doesn’t have to be. Check the airlines you’re considering and look into their social distancing policies and health guidelines, and also consider taking a flight that’s off-peak hours so you’re traveling with fewer people.

• Look into AirBnB or or VRBO for vacation getaway rentals.  Rather than staying at a hotel where you’ll likely encounter a number of different people, a vacation rental through a hospitality site gives you privacy and your own space where you can avoid others. It’s also a good idea to check out reviews for various rental properties to see if the host is keeping the space safe and sanitized.

• Keep up with health and safety guidelines to prevent possible spread.  Even though you’re away on holiday, it doesn’t mean you should let your guard down with safety protocols. Your destination may have relaxed health regulations, but you should still wear a mask in public, maintain the six-feet social distancing rule, keep your hands clean with soap or hand sanitizer, and avoid crowds if possible.