The pandemic has affected all of us and every aspect of our lives. Hopefully, the vaccines can finally put an end to this worldwide problem. While waiting for that, we just can’t sit down and wait. That is why we are slowly going back to our normal activities but always with precaution.
One of the things that you could be missing is taking road trips. It is a great way to bond with the family or with your friends. But how do you keep yourself safe while enjoying your road trip? Here are a few tips you can follow:
Just Skip It
A road trip sounds fun and it can really help with your mental health. However, there might be situations where you’re better off skipping it. If you’re not feeling well or if you’ve been around someone who is sick, it is best to observe and isolate yourself for 14 days. Even those who are asymptomatic could still spread the virus. Also, there are people who are more prone to getting sick. If you are one of them, you better set the road trip for another time.
Plan Where You’re Headed
Some people find it fun to just go for a road trip even without a destination. Driving around and seeing the sites at Route 66 is fun for everyone. However, at this time, your road trip should be carefully planned. Look at the destinations you are headed and make sure to check that you’re not headed where the cases are spiking. Better avoid those areas and stick to those with low numbers.
Carefully Prep Your Vehicle
The last thing you want out of your road trip is to have your car broken down on the side of the road. Prevent this by having your car fully serviced. You should check your tires, brake fluid, oil, coolant, and fuel. Even before the trip, your car should be properly maintained to avoid problems.
Prep For Humans Too
Aside from prepping your car, you should also make sure to prep a first-aid kit for yourself and your family. Pack enough snacks and plenty of water. You should also have extra masks and use them whenever you need to go out.
Make sure your masks are of good quality. Don’t just use bandanas because they are far less effective. You should also have sanitizer or disinfecting wipes within reach. These should not only kill coronaviruses but it also helps prevent other viruses and bacteria from infecting you.
Limit Your Stops
Long road trips are fun but they can also cause you to hurt your back. You still need to stretch your legs, go for a bathroom break, refuel, eat, or just enjoy the scenery. Stopping due to this could put you in potential contact with other people who may or may not carry the virus. Even if the people aren’t there, they might have touch surfaces and the virus could be there. It is best to limit your stops to also limit your possible exposure to them.
Sanitize Everything
When you need to touch the door handle at a store or restrooms, sanitize it first. Any surface you touch should first be sanitized to make sure you don’t accidentally infect yourself. That is why each one should have their own sanitizer within reach. Even if there are people who work there and regularly sanitize the area, you should still keep your guard up.
While refueling, make sure to wipe the gas nozzle handles as well as the buttons and the pump before even touching or using them. Afterwhich, you should also sanitize your hands once again after using them. This will greatly prevent the virus from getting to you.
Prefer To Eat Outside
If you are stopping somewhere to eat, it would be best to dine outdoors than eat inside. The virus will easily dissipate into the open air as compared to a confined space. Additionally, make sure that there are still spaces between you and other customers even if you are already dining outdoors.
Find A Reliable Hotel
When finding a hotel to book, it is also better to look for some that can give you outdoor access. Those that have outdoor corridors are better because the air in the common area freely dissipates. It is best to choose rooms where you don’t have to use the elevator because it is also a confined space.
It can be exciting to see new people and other guests but lessen your interactions with them. Many of the hotels have closed some of their amenities like pools. These common spaces could be a potential area where the virus would spread so best avoid them.
