ACCOMODATIONS – Hotel vs airbnb during covid-19?Staying overnight in a hotel is actually a relatively low-risk activity for members of the same household, as it seems like the risk of getting infected from touching surfaces is pretty low. The majority of hotels have been going overboard lately with cleaning and disinfecting as well, making the chance of touching a contaminated surface really slim. Having said that, consider a rental house. This is a good option because you can clean the rental when you arrive and then you have full control. Some rental companies like Airbnb have rolled out stricter cleaning protocols to ensure the safety of both guests and hosts, so be sure to read up on your rental company of choice’s policy.
ACTIVITIES – Skiing? Beaches? Theme parks? State parks? As some of the nation’s larger theme parks reopen, such as those run by Universal and Disney start to welcome back visitors – the biggest risk may actually come from the travel it takes to reach them. The coronavirus is having a different impact across the country, with some states seeing a decline in infections and others an increase. Theme parks are universally implementing changes that include social distancing, mandatory face masks, the increased availability of hand sanitizer and the increased disinfection of high-contact surfaces. Any activity that is mostly outdoors and is able to limit the number of visitors who can enter – will be on the safer side, as less people is definitely safer than more people (and that includes less busy beaches too.) Camping in a National Park is probably the safest activity as it’s outdoors, and you’re likely to stay with your own family or social group – but not all are open so check before you go!
GETTING TO YOUR DESTINATION –
Drive? It has been predicted that a lot of Americans will choose to drive in the coming months for travel. Driving will give you a greater sense of control over your surroundings, and you can choose who you travel with. If you’re able to keep a safe, six-foot social distance from others in rest areas, wear a mask, and practice good hygiene, there is little risk since the coronavirus is thought to be mainly transmitted directly from person-to-person. When getting gas also use disposable gloves while pumping your gas, rather than trying to wipe it down with a disinfecting wet wipe.
Fly?
Traveling by airplane is arguably a higher risk than traveling by car – but take comfort that air circulation systems on planes are quite good and most if not all airlines have already begun implementing more intense cleaning procedures. Eating and drinking on a plane presents its own challenges of exposure, so limit taking it off. Also keep the recommended six feet of social distance when you can, clean your hands frequently and pack your own food.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING—driver’s license, registration, insurance—as well as health-insurance cards – as an extra precaution. It’s also wise to bring face coverings, gloves, disinfecting wipes, and – if you are driving – cleaning supplies.
