In the midst of a pandemic, it can be hard to maintain a normal, everyday routine. We are living through a historical time accompanied with uncertainty and fear. It is scary on its own, not to mention when children are in the picture! But, if you follow these rules and guidelines, you can continue to spend quality time with your family while being safe and exploring new places.
What is COVID?
COVID19 otherwise known as the coronavirus is an air-borne illness that causes a sore throat, loss of smell/taste, fatigue, sore muscles, and headaches. This virus started in Asia and has quickly spread to almost every country in the world. COVID is transmitted through water droplets which means that coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing food and drink are all ways that COVID can be spread. It is best to practice social distancing--stay at least six feet away from others at all times! Washing hands and using hand sanitizer frequently is also helpful to ensure that you stay protected.
Methods of Travel with Kids
Although the coronavirus is present, people still need to travel. It seemed as though the whole world shut down for a bit in the spring of 2020, but slowly and surely things are starting to open back up. With the holidays right around the corner, most people are wondering what the safest way to travel is. There are several methods of travel for this holiday season. The most common being driving or flying.
Driving is the safest way to travel because the only people that are with you in the confined space are whoever you choose to bring! Make sure to take breaks every once in a while so the children are able to stretch their legs. Take hygienic caution around gas stations and restaurants, as those will be the places with the most human contact during your trip. Sometimes the amount of money spent on gas during a road trip is still cheaper than purchasing an airline ticket to your desired location so be sure to take this into account when deciding how to travel!
Flying is another option that will get you quickly to your destination. Airports can be hot zones for the virus due to the gates, terminals, and security which are all examples of frequently touched surfaces by many people. Some airlines are not accommodating to social distancing and that may increase your risk of getting the disease. Delta is a good example of an airline that is not putting passengers in the middle seats on the plane to ensure that each person is a good distance away from others. Airlines use HEPA filters to remove 99.99% of particulates on board and circulate clean air making the cabin air healthy to breathe. Bring gum or teach your kids how to pop their ears when the plane is taking off and landing to alleviate the pressure on their ears due to the altitude change!
Bus or train travel is another convenient option for traveling with children during this holiday season. Public transportation is a great environmentally-conscious option, especially if the travel distance is in the same region where you reside. It is usually a more affordable option of traveling as well. Check out your local area to see the bus schedule.
Traveling with Children
Just a reminder that children under the age of 2 or that have difficulties breathing don’t need to wear a mask! Although anyone over that age that is capable of wearing one, should. It is the most effective way to prevent the spread of COVID. Children can become bored while traveling for extended amounts of time, so it’s important to bring toys and activities that will keep them entertained. Traveling with children doesn’t have to be stressful as long as you plan it out beforehand. Here are some tips on traveling with kids:
Bring snacks
Goldfish, applesauce packets, dried fruit, cheese sticks, and crackers are easy to buy foods and won’t make a mess!
Keep them entertained
To prevent screaming, crying, and stress, make sure to bring activities that will keep your children entertained. Coloring books, board games, make-believe phones, bath toys, and legos are fun for kids and will keep them busy with playing as opposed to fighting!
Prepare your kids for the trip
Let your children know ahead of time the expectations of how to behave, how long the trip will be, and most importantly--how fun it will be! Make sure to emulate positive energy so your kids will be just as excited for the vacation as you will be.
Be in nature and around animals
Little kids are naturally curious and observant, especially with animals. Introducing children to new animals will pique their interest and keep them occupied. Make sure to seek out some time in nature as they will probably be tired of sitting in a car or flying for a while.
Places to Travel
Select European and South American countries are open for travel while most of Africa is open and Asia is reopening slowly. Mexico has warm beaches that would be a wonderful destination spot available through flying. Canada is also open to travelers from the US! If you are looking to stay within the country, there are over 421 National Parks in the United States ranging from forests to deserts to mountains to bodies of water.
Make sure to keep these tips and tricks in mind so that your family can have the trip of a lifetime stressfree!
Acanela Expeditions offers fun, affordable, kid-friendly trips for people of all ages. Book a trip today to connect with nature and teach your kids about the various cultures that can be found throughout the world. It’s time to reward yourself for all of your hard work and book an adventure today! Where are you off to next?
Post written by Annelin Stephens