The United States has some of the most beautiful places in the world to see. Traveling from state to state to see these scenic spots is a hobby for many Americans. The love of the open road still calls to road warriors, but with the coronavirus pandemic, people are unsure if it is safe to travel. This time of year, people flock to places like Texas to take advantage of the warm weather and the blooming bluebells. As much as the Texas temps and the seasonal spring beckons for visitors, is Texas travel during COVID-19 advised?
Can I travel to Texas from out of state?
On March 29, 2020, Texas state Governor Greg Abbott, issued an executive order that would impact out-of-state travelers. Any air travelers flying into Texas airports, such as Houston, Fort Worth, and Dallas from areas with high COVID-19 case numbers, must self-quarantine after landing in Texas for a period of 14 days.
States currently affected by this order include Washington, Louisiana, and California. Those arriving in Texas from Atlanta, Florida, Miami, Michigan, Chicago, Illinois, and Detroit, should also follow self-quarantine protocols. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented, policies may change from day to day, so even with the current order, travelers should check the most up-to-date information passed down from the governor.
Am I allowed to travel within Texas?
Given the time of uncertainty we are all in, you may be wondering, am I allowed to travel within Texas? The answer is yes, but only with proper precautions.
Texas currently has a stay-at-home order in place until April 30, 2020, but Texas is not alone. At the peak of the flatten-the-curve initiative, at least 90% of the U.S. population was under a shelter-in-place or stay-at-home order to help keep their residents safe.
But what does that stay at home order mean for Texas traveling during the COVID-19 outbreak? You may leave your home for essential activities, but not for anything else. You may go to the grocery store, get medical care, and work in an essential service.
Texans can also go to the gas station, visit their local mechanic, and access essential services like banks, shipping companies, and the post office. While no public swimming pools, gyms, and other community facilities are open, you may go for a walk or run in your local area. While doing so, avoid other people and maintain social distancing. Thankfully, for Texans who want to enjoy the outdoors, Texas State Parks have recently opened again to allow for day-use guests who follow safe social distancing protocols.
As of April 24, retail businesses may open, but under the Department of State Health Services’ (DSHS) guidance for the safety of employees and customers.
How can I protect myself while traveling in Texas?
Texas travel during the coronavirus pandemic is still not recommended, but for those people who need to get out of their houses to complete essential tasks or get fresh air, there are things you can do to protect yourself. Remember to practice safe social distancing by staying at least six feet away from other shoppers. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends disinfecting your shopping carts, covering your mouth and nose with a cloth-mouth covering or homemade mask, and opting for touchless-payment methods.
Once you leave the store, use hand sanitizer, then wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds. Where possible, arrange for contactless delivery of essential products to limit Texas traveling while coronavirus continues to affect the state.
Traveling in Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic
It’s important that all Texans adhere to the recommended travel restrictions and current stay-at-home orders. Thankfully, getting outside to be a part of nature is permitted, as long as people follow the guidelines outlined by the CDC. While there have been cases of COVID-19 reported throughout Texas, the state is following local and national protocols for keeping people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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.
