As of June 30, only 44% of families were planning vacations this year.
This summer may feel like an odd one to travel, but there’s nothing saying you can’t (or shouldn’t) stay close to home.
If you’re looking for tips on taking a safe vacation, or just don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Read on for five tips to enjoy your safe summer getaway.
1. Look into Renting a Home
Look into renting an entire home this year instead of staying in a hotel. It takes any thinking out of the equation when it comes to safety rules and regulations.
It’s easy to find entire homes—or even cool properties—for everyone to enjoy. You just have to do a little more digging and know exactly where to look.
2. Find a Secluded Area
Taking a beach vacation has never been easier—or more needed.
America has no shortage of beaches that make it simple to avoid crowds. Finding something off the beaten path is a great way to break up the monotony of yearly summer beach vacations.
Keep in mind that some beaches are also requiring masks to be worn. This is less likely to happen on a shore that doesn’t attract the crowds of, say, Miami Beach.
This year is bound to be different from previous vacations, but that doesn’t mean it has to be hard. It is, however, going to require some extra planning.
3. Make Reservations
Restaurants, hotels, theme parks, regular parks… just about anywhere you go, you’re going to find that they’re allowing fewer people inside. Plan in advance if you’re wanting to go kayaking, tubing on a river, or even just sitting down to eat dinner (takeout is highly encouraged this time around).
Call the rental company you’re looking at and see if they allow reservations. They’ll often come with a time slot, but you’re not going to have to worry about not being able to go.
4. Arrive Early
Arriving early helps you ensure getting into places—like beaches or theme parks—that don’t take reservations.
An empty beach means more room to decide where you want to set your towel, or even means that you’ll be able to leave before the crowds arrive.
Theme parks are at limited capacity for the season and cannot ensure that everyone that comes will be able to get in. Check ahead to ensure the place you’re going is still open.
5. Pack Cleaning Supplies for Your Summer Getaway
This is the most important tip.
Bring disinfecting wipes (though 70% rubbing alcohol and paper towels work too) for the place you’re going to stay. Bring hand sanitizer and do not forget your mask. Open the windows to let in fresh air once you arrive.
If you’re staying in a house, bring groceries so you can cook. Pack paper plates and single-use utensils if you desire. If you’re trying to limit the waste you produce on vacation, consider bringing your own utensils from home.
They can be washed whenever you’re done and reused every time you eat.
Different, But Enjoyable
This year may be different than any you’ve experienced before, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while staying safe.
If you’d like to keep reading about vacation and travel in 2020, check out our blog.