If you have cabin fever after being stuck in your home during the COVID-19 quarantine, you might be wondering when you can go on vacation again. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a fun family vacation, there are several considerations to make before you begin traveling.
1. International Travel is Limited
If you are attempting to travel overseas or out of the US, you should know that travel is still limited. For example, Canada and Mexico are only allowing essential vehicles into the country. Some countries that have open borders are requiring visitors to quarantine for two weeks after arriving. As the virus continues to spread around the United States, there is a good chance that visitors from the US will continue to be restricted.
2. Where PPE is Required
Before you embark on a vacation, pay close attention to what cities are requiring personal protection equipment in all public spaces and local businesses. Some cities require people to wear masks everywhere they go, even when outside. Before you travel, you should stock up on masks, hand sanitizers, and other necessities so you can keep yourself and your family protected when you visit new places.
3. National Parks and Amusements Parks
Some national parks and amusement parks have announced their reopening dates. These dates are tentative based on the spread of the virus. It might be exciting to be the first person to walk through the reopened gates, but why not let other people try it out first? The employees have to try out their new procedures on the first guests, and they might find the procedures need tweaking. It might be safer to visit after the employees understand exactly what to do and have had substantial practice doing it.
4. Hotels and Lodging
Hotels and motels are generally considered safe. However, you should maintain your social distancing and PPE practices while on the road. If you are concerned about safety at a hotel, call the front desk and ask about their COVID-19 policies. It might be helpful to avoid elevators and to use digital keys so you have less exposure to people you do not know. Before you settle into a hotel room, you should clean items like doorknobs, remote controls, faucet handles, phones, and tabletops with your own wipes to be sure the room is sanitized. You can even bring your own pillows, blankets, and towels if that makes you feel more comfortable.
5. Cruise Ships
Cruise ships were hotbeds of infection at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. Most cruise ships are still not sailing out of the United States. Cruise companies are booking cruises as early as August 1. Some aren’t booking cruises until the fall, and others aren’t setting sail until 2021.
6. Family Road Trip
If you are in need of a vacation, your best bet might be the traditional family road trip. While you might not be able to stop and see iconic sights along the way, you can still fill up the car with gas, stay in a hotel, and get away for a while.
