Planning a vacation during the era of COVID-19 can be challenging. In order to keep your family safe, you are going to want to plan your trip so that you can socially distance yourself as well as you can. Here are seven tips for planning a socially distant family vacation.
1- Drive Instead of Fly: There is virtually no way to remain socially distant if you are flying to your destination. Between the cramped airplanes and the crowded boarding areas, you are going to be shoulder to shoulder with strangers. Choosing to drive instead of fly to your destination is one of the best things that you can do if your goal is to socially distance yourself.
2- Choose Private Lodging Accommodations: Where you choose to stay will also have a big impact on how successful you are in your efforts to socially distance. Rather than choosing a busy hotel, you are better off going with private lodging or a resort with separate lodging buildings. For example, renting a private cabin for your family will afford you plenty of space to spread out and separate yourself from others.
3- Avoid Crowded Restaurants: Another bonus of choosing private lodging accommodation is that you will have your own kitchen. This will make it easy to prepare your own meals in the comfort of your own place, helping you to avoid being crammed into busy restaurants with other tourists.
4- Pack a Cooler: If you are headed out on a road trip, you would be wise to pack a cooler for the vehicle. Stocking up before heading out will eliminate the need to stop frequently for drinks and snacks. You can then use the cooler on your way home and on any day trips that you may take. As a bonus, this will also save you a considerable amount of money.
5- Pick an Outdoor-Centric Vacation: One of the best ways to ensure that you will have plenty of space to socially distance yourself is to choose a vacation option that has this naturally built into the surroundings. For example, now is probably not the best time to take that theme park vacation if your goal is to socially distance. Instead, you may want to consider a beach trip or a cabin in the woods.
6- Stock Up Prior to Departure: A little bit of planning and preparation can go a long way if your goal is to avoid crowds. Before you leave for your trip, be sure to stock up on any essentials that you may need during your vacation. Good items to consider having with you include hand sanitizer, disposable masks, and antibacterial wipes. Limiting the number of shopping trips that you make while on vacation is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself in the pandemic environment.
7- Avoid Touristy and Indoor Areas: Lastly, it is a good idea to stay away from touristy areas and indoor attractions if you want to avoid people. For example, choosing an outdoor park over an indoor museum gives you more options to socially distance yourself.
These seven tips will ensure that you are able to distance yourself as much as possible from other vacationers while still having a great time making memories with your family.