How To Stay Safe On A Post-covid Winter Vacation?

Covid-19 has not gone away completely. Economic repercussions have compelled commercial activities to resume, but health experts do not completely disregard the possibility of a relapse and a second wave occurring all over again.

However, there is a general consensus now that people with strong immunity and without any pre-existing serious diseases are not as likely to be affected by the virus compared to people who have comorbidities. What that means is that people can start travelling once again and enjoy their winter vacations with the stipulation that they will follow the health, hygiene and social distancing parameters at all times.

If you are planning to go on a winter vacation, here are a few things that you need to know before hitting the road.

Is it safe to go on a winter vacation this year?

The First and foremost question that you need to answer yourself is whether do you really want to go on a winter vacation this year. apprehensions and constant worries about an impending relapse can keep you on your toes and stressed which will prevent you from enjoying the vacation to the fullest. If you are okay with that and you think you can manage the stress and focus on getting your money's worth during the vacation, then proceed with planning the vacation. The second question that you need to ask is do you live with somebody who has a comorbidity who would be exposed to the virus when you come back from your vacation? If there is any person with a serious heart problem or low immunity, above the age of 45, you might want to consider postponing the vacation.

Staying Safe on the Road

The safest way to travel in 2020 is to take your own vehicle. if you are travelling with family take a car, but a motorcycle gives you better social distancing, and freedom! If you are taking your own vehicle on the winter vacation make sure to wash it the moment you reach your destination and Keep it sanitized throughout the journey. carry surface sanitizers with you and spray it on all the surfaces where you have to touch to operate the vehicle. Since the motorcycle helmet sits really close to your mouth and nose, it might be a good idea to use a flip up modular helmet and use the back of your hand to lift up the chin section when you have to eat or talk to somebody, and then flip it down to continue on with your ride! If you are using a full-face helmet, make sure to sanitize the surface as well as chin section on the helmet before putting it back on again. it is also a very good idea to use a pair of gloves at all times.

Using Public Facilities

When you are using public restrooms and public facilities such as fuel pumps or eating at restaurants, make sure that you sanitize first before sitting down and placing your arms on the table. Insist on using plastic cutlery instead of steel or silver cutlery. Disposable plates are a better option over anything else at this moment. The safest way to eat when you're on the road during a covid-19 winter vacation is to cook the food at your home and carry it in hot boxes along with disposable plates and cutlery so that you can stop at any place you like and have your meals without running the risk of touching public surfaces.

Staying safe at the destination

Most winter vacation locations in India are almost always packed with tourists and there is little place to be alone or maintain social distance! This might be an opportunity in disguise for you to explore places that have not been fully explored yet and spend some quality time with your family without the burden of crowds holding on your hand having to worry about someone sneezing on you! Take the less explored path and find places people have not heard about yet! Even if you happen to find yourself in a crowded vacation destination, try to follow all social distancing norms and avoid coming in close contact with strangers. If you are traveling with kids, explain to them the need to stay away from other people and use the face mask & gloves at all times.

Things to pack for personal hygiene
Pack extra face masks and disposable hand gloves
Carry fever and flu medicines
Carry a 60% proof hand sanitizer and keep it handy
Carry your own water for the roads, and food too if possible

Remember that the key to enjoying your winter vacation in a post-covid environment is to stay vigilant and maintain all social distancing norms.