She Strengthens

Embracing the Open Road: 8 Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Pandemic Road Trip

As I prepare to embark on a road trip from Texas to New England, I’m filled with excitement and a hint of anxiety. The thrill of exploring new places is tempered by the need to prioritize my health and the well-being of those I’ll be visiting. With COVID-19 still a significant concern, I’ve taken the time to research and prepare for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Plotting a Safe Course

Planning my route has been the most challenging and stressful part of my trip so far. With some states imposing restrictions on visitors from hot spot states, I’ve had to adapt my itinerary several times. To visualize my options, I printed a map and highlighted restricted areas. This helped me identify alternative routes and rest stops, which I’ve checked against the latest updates on interstaterestareas.com.

Cleanliness is Key

Before booking my accommodations, I’ve made sure to ask about each establishment’s cleaning protocols and COVID-19 policies. I want to know when the last cleaning took place and what measures are in place to ensure my safety. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – it’s your health that’s at stake!

Flexibility is Crucial

In case my plans change, I’ve looked for accommodations with flexible cancellation policies. This way, I can adjust my itinerary without incurring unnecessary costs. It’s essential to know the cancellation policies in advance to avoid last-minute decisions that might compromise my safety.

Stocking Up for Safety

To minimize germs in my car, I’ve equipped it with essential supplies like cleaning wipes, hand sanitizer, masks, gloves, and mini trash bags. I’ve also prepared a sanitizing kit to bring into my hotels and Airbnbs. This way, I can stay prepared, organized, and sanitized throughout my journey.

Food for Thought

While I’d love to indulge in local cuisine, I’ve decided to cook my own meals to minimize the risk of exposure. If you do choose to eat out, you can check eater.com for guidelines on open restaurants and their safety protocols.

Wipe Down, Worry Less

To ensure a clean and safe environment, I’ll be wiping down all surfaces when I arrive at my accommodations. This quick 15-minute task will give me peace of mind and confidence that I’ve done everything possible to protect myself.

Sanitizing on the Go

When I leave each stop, I’ll sanitize any surfaces that may have been exposed, including my shoes and luggage. This extra precaution will help prevent the spread of germs and keep me safe on the road.

Testing for Peace of Mind

As an added precaution, I’ve booked a COVID-19 test at my destination. Since I’ll be staying with my 73-year-old mother, I want to ensure that I’m not putting her health at risk. While this may not be necessary for everyone, I highly recommend it if you’ll be staying with vulnerable individuals.

By following these eight essential tips, I’m confident that I can enjoy a safe and enjoyable road trip during the pandemic. With preparation and caution, you can too!