Vacation means good vibes only, right? However, travel can be the ultimate source of bad vibes for some. Between the evolving safety precautions, changing weather, and general stress of travel, how do you manage to stay safe (and sane)?
It may take some extra planning, but safe traveling is still an option right now – as long as you take appropriate precautions, travel to places that are safe + allow it, and feel comfortable doing so. With so many beautiful places to explore, here are a few tips to safely shake off that cabin fever.
#1: Make a Safety Plan
The question of the day: how safe is it to travel, anyway?
First, it’s important to do your research. Figure out the current safety restrictions set out by your destination’s government, and plan your activities accordingly.
Traveling by car? Study the route and keep your vehicle primed for any emergencies. Going by plane? Masks on, hand sanitizer filled, and social distancing as a top priority.
#2: Technology Is Your Friend
Ditch the paper map and pick up that phone. The technology at your fingertips can be the most helpful travel tool.
Smartphone apps can help with real-time traffic updates, potential accidents, and sticking to a safe route. Some of our favorites include:
Sitata – This site tracks upcoming riots, outbreaks, & other travel disruptions in your chosen location.
bSafe – All you have to say is “SOS” and bSafe will alert your chosen contacts with your GPS location.
RoadTripper – Car travel is all the rage these days, and for good reason. This app will help you navigate the most efficient and fun route for your trip.
#3: Set a Budget (and Stick to It)
On vacation time, there are no worries. That is, until you need to return to your hotel, and the taxi driver says your card has been declined… and you don’t have any cash on you. Whoops!
Setting a budget isn’t uptight—it’s a travel necessity. Being stranded with no cash is the last thing you want on your otherwise fun-filled vacation. Take some time to visualize your trip: food, transportation, activities, even emergencies. You should feel confident about covering all of those expenses before hitting the road.
On a spending limit? No problem. Budget-friendly travel has never been more accessible, between group travel deals, cheap hostels, and vacation rental sites.
#4: Ease Your Anxieties
Traveling can be stressful even at the best of times. Nowadays, those fears and concerns are easily amplified—but they don’t have to be. Step back, pause, and take a breath.
Whether your anxieties are being amplified by a packed flight, close quarters, or a general apprehension for flying, there are ways to relieve the stress before it takes over (and before your plane takes off):
Meditation – Take a few minutes each day to visualize your trip going smoothly. Breathe deeply through moments of increased worry.
Supplements – In high-stress situations, supplements like ashwagandha or CBD can put you into a worry-free zone. CBDfx is the perfect travel-friendly supplement that you can stash in your carry-on to enjoy on-the-go.
Positive media intake – Maybe think twice before watching Cast Away or the final season of Lost as your in-air entertainment. Pick positive and uplifting choices to enjoy before and during your trip.
#5: Pack Right, Not Tight
Sadly, the Venn diagram of “intense planners” and “over packers” is just one big circle. Being prepared isn’t usually a hindrance, except when you’re late to the airport because you can’t zip your suitcase closed over your four back-up swimsuits, two winter coats, an inflatable pool floatie, and propane camping stove (where are you even going with all that?!).
Whether you’re road tripping or planning the ultimate beach getaway, packing essential items is key. No matter where you go, some necessities are:
Travel documents – Make sure you have all requisite government ID, tickets, and insurance papers for your destination.
Cell phone & charger (with adapters!) – Keep your phone battery full and plan for any funky international wall sockets.
First aid kit – Yes, your mom was right. Just accept it and move on. Band aids, antibacterial cream, and gauze are vacation necessities—just as much as or even more so than that fruity drink in your hand.
A Safe Getaway
There’s a lot to consider when booking a trip, no matter what else is going in the world. But especially during tough times, it’s better to cover all your bases than let something slip through the cracks. With these tips, you can plan the smoothest and most relaxing trip possible during this time.
Brush off the cold-weather blues and give into your wanderlust—safely, of course.
Obviously, the choice to travel or not is a very personal one. While we’re staying at home, we know that not everyone is. If you are still traveling this winter take every precaution you can, stay home if you’re feeling unwell, take a Covid Test before leaving, anything you can to ensure the safety of yourself and others!
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