This year has thrown all our travel plans in the air. The pandemic situation has caused hammock for travelers, and many of us are still unsure about traveling by planes or trains. Additionally, a lot of travel destinations are still on the red list, and some don’t welcome American travelers for the time being.
Does that mean you can’t plan a few days off? Of course not! You can make the most of your vacation if you get a little creative about it. For instance, a road trip can be a fun way to explore the surrounding areas, keeping risks to a minimum. Admittedly, you may not be able to go far, but a change of horizon is all it takes to recharge your batteries.
However, at a time of crisis like today, it’s fair to wonder how to make your road trip as safe as possible. The first check on local COVID clusters is crucial. Not all regions and cities have been affected in the same way. As such, you can do your homework and focus on places with a low risk of contagion in the US. Central states such as Wyoming, Nebraska, and Nevada have had very few cases since the start of the pandemic and have maintained their case numbers low over time, for instance. Other states, such as Alabama, are on the mend, with cases going down progressively. With this knowledge in mind, you can set your route for a safe location.
Is the car up for the challenge?
Most of us have not been driving a lot since March. Therefore, the road trip might be the first time you’ll be driving long distances in months. It’s a good idea to ensure your vehicle is safe to use on a trip. Simple checks, such as ensuring your car insurance is up-to-date, can make a huge difference. Ideally, you want to pack emergency tools and kit to face most situations. You don’t want to get stranded on the road without being able to get the car started, for instance! As such, you shouldn’t go anywhere with an emergency kit. You can also find manufacturers’ manuals that explain in great lines how to troubleshoot most issues, from changing a tire to replacing a broken light bulb.
Schedule regular breaks
In an ideal world, you should make time for 20 minutes to 30 minutes break every 2 hours. In reality, most drivers stay behind the steering wheel until they need a bio break. As such, most people tend to stop for only a few minutes now and then to use the bathroom, refuel, or have something to eat. You may want to take a game with you to ensure you can have an active break, rather than sit down somewhere else. Taking a small ball can encourage you to have a friendly match with friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs. Not sure what to bring? Have a look for the best portable basketball hoops if you’re traveling with a campervan – so you don’t need to build it every time. Alternatively, you can pack your running gear and race your friends over a couple of miles. You don’t want to exhaust yourself, but an active break will reduce health risks and back pains!
Remember: Some restaurants might be shut
It is an unusable situation. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced some restaurants to adjust their opening hours or to shut down. Therefore, that fantastic burger bar you’ve got in mind may not be open anymore. When you’re traveling long distances, you don’t need to add extra pressure to find food. Fingers crossed, you’ll find a nice place to stop and eat. But if you can’t find anything, it can be helpful to prepare a few emergency snacks. A pack of beef jerky along with some whole-grain crackers can keep you going until you find a restaurant!
Book your room ahead
Hotels are likely to follow the same principles as restaurants. Some may have been forced to shut down temporarily or permanently. Therefore, it may not be safe to rely on same-day bookings. Consequently, you may want to book your rooms ahead of traveling. It can be useful to get in touch with the hotel manager to let them know about your itinerary and your ETA. You can also seize the opportunity to ask about late arrivals so that the manager is warned about potential delays. You don’t want to panic about having to sleep in the car if you get to your hotel too late!
Should I wear a mask?
It is an impossible question today. While more and more people are happy to wear a mask, some restrictions differ across the country. It’s therefore tricky to know whether or not a mask is mandatory when traveling. As a driver or a passenger, you don’t need to wear a face in your car. However, whether you should be masked when you refuel your car or use a public bathroom is another matter. Most shops and businesses expect their customers to wear personal protection, and you are likely to find signs informing you of their take on the mask/no ask debate. You are not required to wear gloves. As a rule of thumb, pack a mask in your luggage so that you’re prepared for all eventuality.
Get comfortable driving shoes
Most people have not been driving since March or only short-distance trips to the grocery store. Therefore, you may find it uncomfortable to be in a car for an extended period of time. Opt for loose-fitting clothes that give you plenty of breathing room and movements. You should also keep a pair of driving shoes that let you feel the pedals and move your ankles freely. Bulky soles may be a trendy addition, but they prevent accuracy when driving. If you use pedals, you want to make sure you can feel them underneath your feet. Another word of advice: Even if your day-to-day shoes are comfortable enough for long trips, you should keep a pair of driving shoes in the car. You don’t want to get your shoes wet on a rainy day and slip on the pedals.
In conclusion, the safety measures to take on a road trip are dictated by common sense. It is an unprecedented situation; therefore, you need to cater to a variety of scenarios, including shut restaurants, road fatigue, and taking the car on the road after a long time.