Earlier this year, you may have been planning a road trip for you and your family. Whether you planned to go camping or skiing, those plans likely changed due to the current health crisis. While some travel restrictions have eased, it is still not advisable to go out on long trips, particularly in areas considered to be COVID-19 hotspots.
However, a road trip can still be beneficial, especially when you want to chase away the blues of the pandemic. Staying inside for several months is also not good for your mind and body. However, if you decide to go on a trip, you must do so with safety in mind. Here are some tips to help you plan your out-of-state road trip:
Choose a Location
These days, you can’t just pick a point on a map and venture out on the road. You need to be specific in where you are traveling and who you are interacting with. Since you’re planning to go out of state, you may need to research if the local government requires visitors to undergo quarantine. The quarantine period would last 14 days, so it would be best to cross them off your list if you only have a few days to spare for your road trip.
It would be best to stick to a familiar location that’s not too far away from your home. This way, you can get assistance quickly should there be any trouble. It would also be prudent to read up on any local rules that may apply to you during your trip. Emergency and accident laws can vary per state. If you are heading to Texas, for example, you may realize that they have different laws about intoxication manslaughter than when you are in Minnesota or Florida.
Load Up On Essentials
Essentials go beyond just food and drink. You have to load up on sanitary needs as well. Make sure that you pack your rubbing alcohols, wipes, and disinfectant sprays. Never forget to pack a mask. You may wish to pack a set of gloves if you are going to a gas station to fill up your gas tank. Make sure to dispose of it after use.
As much as you can, pack these items into a separate and easily accessible area in your car, so you can quickly grab it if you touch anything that may be a source of contamination.
All this being said, it would still be wise to pack your own food and water to help limit your exposure to others.
Only Bring the Basics
While you may need to bring your essentials, you don’t need to bring everything else. Pack wisely and appropriately for the length of your trip. Ensure that what you have is enough to sustain your potential needs while you are away from home.
Don’t Forget Mobile Phone Chargers
If you are going on a road trip, don’t ever forget your phone charger. During this uncertain time, you cannot just go out and use a public payphone if you need to call somebody and your mobile phone has a dead battery.
Inform Your Relative or Close Friends
Whenever you are going to travel in areas that are unfamiliar to you, always inform your family and friends of your itinerary and how they can contact you. While you may be travelling to escape the confines of your home, it doesn’t hurt to let your loved ones know that you are safe. As much as you can, update them of your whereabouts.
Bring Medical Records
Whenever you are traveling, make it a habit to bring important documents with you, especially during this time when you may be asked about your health status. If you have a COVID-19 test result, bring it with you to give everyone some peace of mind.
Whenever you need to go buy food in convenience stores, practice the minimum safety requirements set by the health authorities: wear your mask, keep a safe distance, and always wash or disinfect your hands or any items that may be exposed. If you can’t cancel your out-of-state travel, it’s best to follow these tips to ensure your safety on the road and against the deadly coronavirus.
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