Road Trip: The Perfect Way to De-stress During These Trying Times

The coronavirus pandemic has put a halt on many people’s travel plans with the need to stay at home and practice social distancing. The sudden change has undoubtedly altered things, causing a shift towards the new normal. While air travel may have dropped significantly due to restrictions and safety concerns, this did not mean that the quest for adventure stopped. In place of international travel, road trips have risen in popularity during the pandemic as they provided individuals and families with a great escape.

When flying on planes came to the picture, road trips took the back seat. After all, why spend over 10 hours on the road when you can get to your destination in less than two hours by plane? However, now that flying has become riskier and more controlled, the classic and nostalgic road trips are back. From Los Angeles and Las Vegas, you can visit beautiful sites like Lake Mead, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Zion National Park, and so many others!

To help you plan a road trip while staying safe and healthy, here are some tips to guide you through the process. If cabin fever is starting to kick in, hitting the road might just be the solution for you.

Safety Considerations

Ready to pack your bags and start driving? Before you get carried away with preparations, always remember that safety is your top priority, especially during these times! Take note of these safety tips while on the road:

• Bring masks and face shields at all times, regardless of whether your destination will be crowded. Most places will now require masks to permit entry, and it never hurts to have an extra layer of protection.
• Carry hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to keep your hands clean before and after touching any public facilities.
• Use paper towels or disinfecting wipes to open public restroom doors, if needed, and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom.
• Avoid making stops at crowded areas, but if absolutely necessary, take proper safety precautions.
• Pack food or opt for carry-out instead of dine-in to minimize the risk of infection.
• Make sure to stay in a place with proper safety measures and protocols in place.

Where to Go?

The first question you’ll likely ask yourself: Where to go? Whether you are coming from Los Angeles or Las Vegas, there are undoubtedly countless places to choose from. While all the prospects may sound intriguing, it is more important than ever to be mindful of your destination. The sound of a road trip may excite you, but you must not forget about safety protocols and potential health risks.

You can still go on out-of-state trips if you want to but take note of the state’s procedures for visitors. That said, do not let this thought dampen your spirits! Now is the perfect time to explore some hidden gems that you may not have known about close by to your city.

Road Trip Planning Tips

To ensure you have a smooth trip ahead, here are some tips to remember while planning:

1. Bring food and drinks: No matter how far your destination may be, it is always a good idea to bring food and drinks. Eating in restaurants may pose a risk for infection due to face-to-face contact with other people. If traveling far, make sure you bring a cooler to stay refreshed while traveling.
2. Check the weather forecast: Check the weather forecast before finalizing your trip date and even a few days before the actual trip. Even if your plans are in place, you may sometimes have to postpone your plans due to sudden predictions of an incoming storm or something similar.
3. Inspect your vehicle: With a long trip ahead, you want to make sure your vehicle is in its best shape. Thus, take the time to inspect all its parts or bring it to your mechanic to have a look. This way, you can make necessary repairs before embarking on your trip.
4. Bring a first-aid kit: You never know what may happen while on the road, so always bring a first-aid kit. Add in some scissors, bandages, antihistamines, pain relievers, eye drops, mosquito repellent, and other items you deem important.
5. Pre-book accommodations: The last thing you want to happen is to drive for hours, only to find out that all nearby hotels are fully booked. Pre-booking your lodging will ensure you have somewhere to stay overnight. This is particularly important now since not all establishments are open, and many are operating with limited capacities.

So, pack your bags, grab your essentials, get on the road, and have a great road trip!