Tips For Road Trips

You’re ready to jump in the car, pack some snacks and head on down the road. Good for you! It is time to get out of the house and at least do some sightseeing. I don’t know about you, but I am growing a bit tired of seeing the four walls in my home office. I am ready to do some “Rockin Down The Highway”. Thanks to one of my favorite bands, the Doobie Brothers

If you’re like me, you are going to plan ahead. Right now it is an especially good idea to do that. Plan your route and the amount of miles you want to drive every day. Plan which city, town or community you want to stop in for the night. And plan which hotel you want to stay in and make a reservation. Keep in mind a couple of things that happened since the beginning of 2020. Many hotels were forced to shut their doors for a period of time. Some still aren’t open, and some of those that are, have a smaller staff on hand. Plus, some properties are only allowing essential travelers like medical workers to stay onsite, so it is very important to contact the hotel directly and confirm your stay. And reconfirm it right before you head out. There is no guarantee in our current environment that the hotel won’t have to shut down again.

Not every state you will be traveling to has been practicing the same covid protocols as the state you live in. Heck, even cities within metropolitan areas vary by what they allow and don’t allow. Never assume. It is important to check the official government website for each state you will be crossing through or staying in. Some states are still requiring out-of-state visitors to completely self-quarantine for 14 days once you arrive. Some states will not allow you in their grocery stores, requiring you to being 14 days’ worth of food and drink with you. You never know, so check it out ahead of time. Here is a link for the CDC Traveler Information website, to give you a head start on your research.

Don’t wing it, thinking you will be able to just pull into town and get a room for the night somewhere. Be flexible. Understand that some places may not be open. Have plan B up your sleeve for these situations. As much as we don’t want to, you must have a mask or 2 on hand. Wear it if you have to and use hand sanitizer. Take it slow, experience what you are seeing. Eat your meals at local restaurants and savour the moment. Businesses have been shut down everywhere, so the ones you choose to visit are probably grateful for your business. A big part of the pleasure when traveling is the experiences you have on your way to your destination. Take your time and enjoy your surroundings. A road trip can be a small step into getting back to what’s important. “Life Is A Highway” Thank you Rascal Flatts