As restrictions ease up and vaccination continues, perhaps vacationing has been on your mind. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s finally safe to go on that trip you put on hold during the pandemic. Public health and travel authorities are offering prospective travelers some tips to make driving, or flying, to your destination as safe as possible.  

 If you’re flying

Consider contactless options such as mobile boarding passes to streamline your passage through airport security. You may also want to take note in advance of your airline’s safety protocols; some airlines have blocked middle seats, ensuring no two passengers need to sit side-by-side. Try to avoid getting caught up in large crowds at airports; arriving early can help you position yourself optimally. It may be worthwhile to invest in a higher quality mask for your time on the flight to protect yourself as much as possible.  

If you’re driving

Plan out your stops, including gas stations, hotels, and restaurants. Try to stop as infrequently as possible, and make sure the businesses you plan to visit haven’t closed due to Covid regulations. Packing some snacks might help with the above; bringing your own lunch, water, and the like, can cut out the need to take a detour for food.  

Whether you’re flying or driving, you should keep the guidelines and restrictions of your destination in mind when planning your trip. It’s important to comply with local regulations, which might be different from those back home. Some areas are more at-risk than others, and it’s crucial to recognize unsafe gathering spots. Consider opting for a destination with high vaccination rates and note that the CDC recommends wearing a mask in areas with low vaccination rates.  

Overall, experts recommend that you do your research ahead of time, avoid large crowds, and exercise common sense.