If, like many Americans, you’ve been cooped up at home for the past few months and you’re itching for a change of scenery, Memorial Day weekend has come at the right time.
Instead of heading for a long-distance destination, consider taking a road trip instead. You’ll get quality time with the family, you’ll get to see someplace new, and the best part is that you can still listen to your local radio stations on the RADIO.COM app!
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If you’re planning on taking the family on a quick road trip this Memorial Day weekend, here are some safety tips for your travels.
Map out a trip that can be done with one tank of gas
In the past you may have taken advantage of a long weekend to recharge your batteries someplace far away, but with concerns about finances, and experts advising that people continue to social distance, a trip closer to home may feel like a more comfortable alternative for many Americans.
Going to a location that’s a few hours’ drive from your home means that you can get up early, drive to your destination and enjoy the day, and return in time to sleep in your own beds. By keeping it local, you also have the added benefit of infusing money into your community if you stop for lunch or if you pay an entrance fee to a state park.
Call ahead
The last thing you want to do is drive for hours only to find out that your destination is closed. Jim Garrity, AAA Public Affairs Manager, told News 5 in Cleveland that calling ahead or shooting off a quick e-mail to make sure that places are still open is essential to your plans. “As you’re traveling, rest stops may be closed in another state,” he said, reminding travelers to be informed of what their trip could entail.
Find out local COVID-19 protocols
As states and cities open up, your community may be following different guidelines than others. Make sure you look up what local health officials have asked residents to do to ensure that you’re not breaking any rules while on vacation.
Bring your own supplies
“Consider packing some additional sanitizer, face masks, gloves especially if you find out the places that you’re going along the way have stricter regulations,” said Garrity. Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll be around a new group of people while on your trip. To minimize your exposure to potential infection, wear a mask around people that aren’t part of your travel group, and pay close attention to your hand hygiene.
Thoroughly clean your hotel
If you’re planning on spending the night in a hotel or rental home, it’s a good idea to bring some cleaning supplies from home so that you can sanitize upon arrival. Make sure to wipe down high-touch surfaces like door knobs and light switches with a disinfectant, and wear a face mask around other guests in public spaces like elevators or the hotel lobby.
Be considerate of others
If you are not feeling well or have recently been exposed to someone who tested positive for coronavirus, don't leave town. Health experts say that symptoms can take up to 14 days to appear, with some people who become infected never showing symptoms. Consider staying home, or if your cabin fever is at an all-time high, change your trip so that it's a picturesque drive instead. That way you’ll still see something new, but by staying in your vehicle, you won’t put others’ health at risk.
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