There is a global pandemic on the rise, but do not fear! As long as you follow these simple rules and guidelines for traveling amidst the pandemic, you will be safe and be able to explore all of the awe-inspiring places that the world has to offer! Check out these tips to ensure that you stay safe and healthy this vacation season.

What is COVID-19?

COVID19 otherwise known as the coronavirus, is a contagious virus transmitted through water droplets (i.e. sneezing, coughing in a crowded space), close contact to an infected person for more than 15 minutes, and touching the face (nose, eyes, mouth) after touching an object with the virus on it. The coronavirus has been known to cause a loss of smell or taste, difficulty breathing, fever, general aches/pains, and coughing. The recommended amount of time for quarantine after being exposed or having the virus is 14 days.

What to remember during this time period of the coronavirus:

Wear a mask!

The most important thing you can do to help yourself and others stay safe is to wear a protective face covering. Although it can be irritating to wear a mask, they have been proven to be effective in decreasing the spread of COVID19. Masks protect your mouth and nose from inhaling water droplets from others while at the same time preventing your germs from being spread to those around you. Masks should cover both the nose and the mouth and should be worn at all times in buildings, crowds of people, and transportation. When outside and practicing social distancing, there is no need for a mask.

Mask Tips

It’s better for the environment and fashionable to choose a cloth mask instead of a plastic one. Cloth masks have more pattern options and are softer. It is recommended to have two or more layers of breathable fabric. If you choose to wear a face shield, make sure to have a mask underneath to stay extra protected! Children under the age of two don’t need a mask but other children should wear them for their safety. Try to not touch the mask while you’re wearing it to ensure that you stay safe!

Practice Social Distancing

It is recommended by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) to stay at least 6 feet apart from others. This includes in the grocery store, waiting in lines, in transportation, and in restaurants. The farther away you are from someone, the least likely it is that you’ll get the virus. Some airlines are making the middle seat unavailable for passengers so that social distancing is still a possibility while flying.

Be careful about where you choose to travel

There are many places with fast rising infection rates, it is important that you don’t travel to any “hot spots” where your chances of contracting the virus are higher. Some places are even requiring a mandatory quarantining upon arrival. Within the United States, some hot states right now are: California, Texas, Florida, New York City. Make sure to check out your travel destination beforehand and if you do your research, you will have a great time without worrying about getting sick.

• Road trips are always a fun way to get outside and explore. Traveling by car is a lot safer than by airplane. Make sure to sanitize your hands and steering wheel after stopping at rest stops and gas stations.

• Choose short flights and make sure that the airline that you’re traveling with respects social distancing guidelines. 

• If you are feeling sick, just stay at home! There are still many adventures to be had in the future but it’s best to make sure that you feel better before traveling just to make sure that you don’t get others sick as well!

Traveling After the Pandemic

Continue with good hygiene habits

Even when the rules regarding COVID have ended (mask wearing and social distancing) it is still important to practice safe, healthy habits. For example, always sneeze into your elbow and wash your hands immediately afterwards. Make sure to disinfect areas that are frequently touched in your household. Here is a list of places that are frequently touched: 

• Electronic screens (especially your cell phone!)

• Door handles and door knobs

• Handles of kitchen appliances

• Counter tops

• Faucets

• Toilets

• Table surfaces

• Lightswitches

Be careful, you can still get other diseases

Even when the spread of COVID has decreased, there are still common illnesses that can be transferred without caution. The flu, strep throat, a common head cold, and mono are all easily transferable to another person.

Carry sanitizer around with you

You never know when you might come in contact with someone that’s sick! For that reason, it’s wise to carry around wipes, hand sanitizer, a mask, and tissues. There are also miniature first aid kits that come with tylenol, bandaids, and other helpful instruments in case of an emergency. They’re perfect for a purse or backpack, it’s always better to be prepared!

Relax and enjoy the journey!

Although sickness is something to be cautious of, enjoy your trip when you’re traveling; don’t let your fears stop you from having a good time! There are many places to go within the United States and internationally. It’s best to soak up every minute of traveling.

Keep these health tips in mind while traveling and you can’t go wrong! Acanela Expeditions and Wander Camp offer fun, safe trips for all age groups. Invite a friend, some family, or a significant other to tour somewhere new or camp under the stars. With easy booking and stress-free trips, your adventure of a lifetime awaits you! 

Post written by Annelin Stephens