Black couple wearing masks and walking on the beach while taking selfieFor the past year, it feels like we all have been cooped up at home. So I imagine that many of you are ready to travel this summer. I know I am!
 
I have come up with several tips to help you travel in a safe and healthy way. Whether you are taking a road trip or flying to your destination, you can have an amazing vacation free of illness. When you come back, you will feel relaxed and refreshed.
 

Choosing Your Vacation Destination

It can be hard to decide where to go on vacation. With COVID-19 still a huge part of our world, you will want to do some research before choosing. Whether you want to stay in the US or travel abroad, check what coronavirus restrictions are in place at your destination. Will you need to show proof of a negative COVID test, your vaccination card, or will you need to quarantine? These requirements are different from country to country and even state to state. The CDC has up-to-date guidelines available for both domestic and international travel.
 

Will You Drive, Fly, or Cruise?

If you will be going on a road trip, prepare ahead and be ready to deal with any issues that come up. Take your vehicle to your favorite car mechanic to have it checked out before you leave. Have your brakes checked, ensure all the fluids are full, and your tires are in good shape.
 
Breaking down is sure to be a speed bump to your vacation! Make sure you have some safety essentials in your car. According to AAA, you should have the following items in your vehicle before setting off:

  • First-aid kit
  • Cell phone and charging cord
  • Drinking water and healthy snacks for everyone in the car, including pets
  • Flashlight with extra fresh batteries
  • Blanket
  • Pre-moistened disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer
  • A basic set of tools
  • Duct tape
  • Emergency warning devices such as road flares or reflectors
  • Jumper cables/jump pack
  • Tarp, raincoat, and gloves
  • Shovel

I have found it is when you are not prepared, things tend to go wrong, so take the time to prepare for any possible issues ahead of time.

Is a flight part of your vacation plan? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has made some changes to its process for screening:

  • Masks are currently required when going through screening.
  • Maintain social distancing
  • You may bring up to a 12-ounce hand sanitizer in your carry-on.
  • They prefer you put personal items such as wallets, keys, and phones in carry-on bags instead of bins.
  • Before and after the screening, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Remember that rules and processes are regularly changing at this time. Check the TSA website when you are booking your flight and recheck before you head to the airport to make sure you will be in compliance.
 
It looks as though cruise lines will begin cruises again in July. This is the plan, but as we all know, things can change. Check the CDC website for cruise information. Currently, Cruzely also has a few recommendations:

  • Put off arranging special outings at ports of call until you are on your cruise.
  • Expect few passengers.
  • Do not expect activities to be the same as pre-coronavirus.
  • The further out you book, the closer to normal your cruise will be.

There are some good deals out there. However, beware that there is a risk of a cruise being canceled or delayed.
 

Maintain Your Health While Vacationing

It is tempting to over-indulge and let your healthy eating and exercise habits go by the wayside while on vacation. While indulging in some treats is part of a vacation, remember that you want to return from vacation feeling renewed.
 
If you are staying in a hotel or cruise for your holiday, use the gym or swim some laps in the pool once a day. If you have chosen a destination with outdoor activities, take advantage. Go for hikes, ride bikes, or jog along the beach. Getting your daily workout in can be part of the fun.
 
It can be easy to pack on a few pounds while vacationing. If you are eating in restaurants or ordering in, it can be hard to maintain a healthy diet.
 
When ordering in a restaurant, consider your steamed, broiled, or poached options. Ask for sauces on the side, and make sure you get plenty of fruit and vegetables.
 
I like to limit myself to one real indulgence a day. You are on vacation, after all, so you have to enjoy some treats.
 
I hope you plan a wonderful vacation this summer. Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather and fresh air with friends and family! You’ll feel renewed and reinvigorated after a long hard winter.