As the number of states issuing shelter in place orders grows and limits on essential travel take hold, that vacation week you’ve had circled on your calendar may be starting to look like a question mark. Whether it’s RV travel, a cross-country flight, or a seaside getaway you were planning pre-coronavirus, it can be hard to figure out what to do about your travel plans these days.
Travel cancellation is on everyone’s minds, so let’s break down what you need to know about traveling amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Keep in mind that restrictions around essential travel and non-essential travel are evolving and will vary from city-to-city and state-to-state, so keep an eye on the news and check the latest updates before you pack your bags.
It depends on where you’re traveling
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued restrictions on many international and domestic travel destinations. With so many grounded flights, international shelter in place orders, and mandatory quarantines upon return, travel within the U.S. is safer than trekking abroad right now. When considering U.S. travel, keep in mind that, currently, the CDC has issued domestic travel advisories.
It also depends on how you’re traveling
Social distancing can be very doable with RV travel, which gives you the freedom to boondock off the grid and away from crowds. Social distancing on airplanes, cruises, buses, and trains? Not so easy. In the era of coronavirus, it’s not just where you go; it’s how you get there that matters. Stay safe by utilizing travel methods that allow for social distancing.
Be especially cautious if you’re at risk
If you’re in an at-risk age group or you have a pre-existing medical condition such as asthma or diabetes, travel cancellation may be your best bet. Stay healthy inside and spend some time planning that awesome trip you’re going to take when things are safe again.
Be compassionate about other people’s health too
You may feel a-okay, but immunocompromised individuals are counting on you to flatten the curve by following shelter in place guidelines, practicing social distancing, and limiting travel. This may mean opting for RV travel in the remote wilderness over a trip to a popular national park, and it may also mean quarantining upon return.
What about RV travel?
Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, RV travel is possible. Do your part to keep yourself and local communities safe by opting for camping on public lands. Make an effort to bring every item you need with you in your RV, so you don’t have to stop at grocery stores and other businesses.
Heads up: Some state parks and national parks may be closed or potentially crowded, so do your research before you go. If your state guidelines — or your gut instinct — tell you to stay home, camp out in your living room this weekend. Your dream travel destination will be there in the future, and you want to stay healthy so you can enjoy it when the time comes.
Team Outdoorsy is here to help you along your journey. If you have questions or concerns about your upcoming RV rental, give us a call at 1-877-723-7232, send us an email, or start a chat. And for a continuously updated list of frequently asked COVID-19 questions relating to RV travel, visit our FAQ page.
