Since March 2020, the whole world has been under lock down as per precautions for novel corona virus. The pandemic that is yet going on has halted travelling globally. With international, national, and even interstate restrictions, everyone was under lock down till July 2020.
But now the world and India is in the unlocking phase. But now, travelling is resuming so that the economy can get better, and people who got stranded in different places can go home. Even though there is no more restriction on movement, we do have to take precautions to keep ourselves safe as the virus is still on its peak, and the vaccination trials are still going on.
So, if you are travelling, make sure you have all the essentials to keep your travel safe and smooth. Here is a list of things you should do or have while travelling in times of corona.
1. Create a checklist
The first thing you need to do is make a checklist of everything you need for the road trip. Be it masks, sanitizer, food, documents or your medicines. Since, there is a lot on your mind, you can forget one or two things, so do make a checklist using Canva design tool. It has so many features that will ensure that your packing will be a smooth one.
2. Sanitize your car and get it serviced
Even though you are travelling now after so many months, your car was in use for when you had to use it to run errands. Also, if you didn’t use it for the last five months, you must get it serviced fully. You don’t want to get stuck on the road with a car which heats up or something.
Also, after you get it back from service, use a disinfectant wipe or liquid to clean every service of the car. The dashboard, steering wheel, radio, seat belt, and more are some of the most used things, so make sure you wipe them thoroughly.
3. Make sure you have extra masks
Don’t think that just because you are driving, you don’t have to wear a mask in the car. As a precaution, it is best to wear a mask while travelling in the car. Also, don’t use the surgical masks for more than one day as they are not effective.
Use N-95 masks or cloth masks with 4-5 protective layers. Always keep extra in your glove compartment in case the one you have on gets soaked or falls in dirt.
4. Make sure you have sanitization things in essential
Antibacterial tissues, normal tissues, sanitizer, disinfectant spray, wipes, gloves are some of the other essentials that you should carry with you. At least have enough to last you till your destination so that you don’t have to stop and buy them.
If you stop at a restaurant or convenience store or petrol pump, always wear gloves. Dispose of them if they are disposable ones otherwise, wipe them clean with disinfectant spray.
5. Documents
If your state and the state that you are traveling to requires an E-pass and medical reports from the government, make sure you have one. Know the rules before you plan your travel. Also, carry other documents like car insurance paper, identity cards, and your medical files just in case.
6. Food and water
It is better to pack your food, snacks, and sufficient water. Sure, you cannot carry a ton of water, so make sure you stop at hygienic places to refill and wear your gloves and wipe it off later.
Also, keep healthy snacks with you, and some home-made food so that you don’t have to stop a lot for food. Eating in your car can be tricky, but it is safer.
General tips:
> Try to avoid paying using cash at convenience stores and other places. Use digital methods of payment. Everyone is using one these days, so should not be a problem.
> Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth while travelling. Avoid touching doorknobs of a department store, and use a sanitizer right after you touch one.
> Use separate disposable plates and glasses and a spoon. Don’t share, and make sure you dispose them responsibly
Tips for traveling using public transport
- If you are traveling by bus or cabs or trains, make sure:
- You follow the seating guidelines and don’t make a fuss
- Keep your mask on
- Don’t touch door knobs and handles with naked hands, and use a sanitizer afterwards
- Go digital
- Carry a blanket for your overnight journey
- Carry food and water
I hope that this list of essentials will provide some peace to everyone travelling as nervousness and anxiety is sure to engulf you during such trying times. Also, be safe and take precautions and if you can avoid travelling for a little while, do that.