Popular destinations are reopening for summer getaways, but is it safe to travel with your family? The key is carefully assessing risks. Consider your mode of travel—plane or car—and the destination's specific hazards. For flights, factor in flight availability, connections, airport size, and ground transport like buses, taxis, or rental cars. Will you stay in a hotel or an apartment?
These details often go unnoticed in normal times, but during COVID-19, meticulous planning is essential. While travel and crowds carry inherent risks, proven strategies can protect you and your loved ones, allowing for a refreshing break.
Every family must define their risk tolerance. As seasoned travel advisors with years guiding families through pandemics, here are practical tips based on real-world experience.
Air Travel
Airlines have implemented robust COVID-19 protocols: reduced flights, blocked middle seats, modified boarding, mandatory masks, enhanced cleaning, and airport-wide sanitation with extra hand sanitizer stations. Vigilantly sanitize all touched surfaces—seats, armrests, tray tables, and lavatory handles.
Avoid hand contact with surfaces where possible. Use sanitizer or wipes proactively. Opt for touchless doors, skip escalator railings, and maintain social distancing. Sanitize hands immediately after any touch, never touch your face, and carry spare masks.
Driving
For shorter trips or to avoid air travel risks, driving offers more control. Plan routes with stops for fuel, meals, and breaks—mind your limits, especially with kids.
Stock door pockets with hand sanitizer for instant access post-stop. Keep extras in every door and spare masks in the vehicle.
Accommodations
Options abound from big chains to private rentals—research thoroughly. Large hotels leverage professional cleaning teams; smaller ones or Airbnbs may vary. Verify their guest protection measures.
Bring disinfecting wipes for high-touch room surfaces. Use elbows or sleeves for doors/elevators. Avoid crowds in lobbies, pools, or elevators; mask up in shared spaces.
Dining and Entertainment
Savoring local cuisine and fun is vacation highlights. Many venues enforce restrictions: check amusement parks, events, water parks, zoos. Most kid-friendly spots are open—proceed smartly.
Mask in lines or crowds; remove at your table after handwashing (or sanitizing). Research venue guidelines, activities, and prepare for patience amid protocols.
