The holidays are almost here, and although the Covid-19 pandemic has influenced the number of people traveling, many of us are still taking to the road to visit friends and family. If you’re planning on packing up the car to avoid air travel this season, here are our tips for holiday driving during Covid-19.

Tips for holiday driving during Covid-19

1. Leave extra time to get where you’re going

Building in extra time goes for holiday travel during any year, even this year when there will be fewer motorists on the road with the pandemic. You can still expect traffic, weather conditions, and unexpected detours and construction to influence how quickly you can get to where you’re going. It’s best to build in extra time and get to your destination safely.

2. Bring hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes, and use them regularly

Although many shops, restaurants, and hotels are now providing hand sanitizer for their patrons, it’s still a good idea to bring your own hand sanitizer to avoid accidentally picking up a virus from something you’ve touched. Similarly, disinfectant wipes are handy for shopping or luggage carts, gas pumps, rental cars, and much more.

3. Take extra precautions at rest stops and gas stations

If you’re traveling by car, stopping at gas stations and rest stops is inevitable. This is where bringing your own hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes comes in handy — clean anything you touch and use provided hand sanitizer to stay safe.

4. Call ahead to find out Covid-related restrictions at hotels and restaurants

Every state is handling Covid-19 restrictions a little differently. Call ahead to places you’re planning to visit to find out cancellation policies, restrictions, and revised operating hours so you don’t get hit with an unexpected surprise when you arrive.

4. Bring a mask, and make sure to wear it where appropriate

According to the CDC, wearing a face mask or facial covering is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus to others. Make sure to bring and wear your mask to keep yourself and others safe during your travels.

Make sure to bring several masks that will last for the duration of your trip. A washable/reusable one is even better if you have access to laundry facilities.

5. Don’t travel if you’re feeling sick

Traveling while sick is never fun, but it’s especially important to consider altering your travel plans if you feel unwell this year. That’s because flu and Covid-19 have very similar symptoms, and there’s no way to distinguish between the two without getting a test.

If you don’t want to cancel your trip, consider getting tested to make sure you don’t have Covid-19 before you set out on the road.

6. Bring an emergency kit that is destination-ready

What do we mean by destination-ready? Your kit should contain emergency supplies that accommodate the travel conditions you’ll be traveling through. So, if you’re heading somewhere snowy and icy, make sure your kit contains chains, salt, and sand, to name a few items. If you’re heading somewhere hot, make sure you bring extra water so you can stay hydrated in case you find yourself waiting on the side of the road for a while.

Learn more about what to put in an emergency car kit»

Get Your Car Inspected Before You Go With T3 Atlanta

Holiday driving during Covid-19 may require some extra planning, but it’s worth it to stay safe and healthy this season.

As with any road trip, it’s important to get your car inspected before you go to make sure it’s in good condition and avoid a breakdown that leaves you stuck on the side of the road. T3 Atlanta can help with fast and friendly service at our two metro Atlanta locations. Book an appointment today and we’ll make sure your car is ready for your holiday travels.