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Travel Is The Cure For Cabin Fever
AAA has released its latest predictions for summer travel, forecasting that Americans will take 700 million trips between July 1 and Sept. 30, 2020. This data represents a nearly 15 percent drop compared to 2019 and is the first decline in summer travel since 2009.
However, not all forms of travel are taking the same hit. Air travel will see a decline of nearly 74 percent while rail, cruise, and other types of travel are predicted to drop by about 86 percent. On the other hand, automobile travel will decrease by only 3.3 percent. Road trips will be the most popular form of travel this summer, expected to represent 97 percent of all trips.
If you’re one of the millions of Americans planning to explore the open road this summer, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
Plan your route ahead of time.
2020 is not the year for spontaneous travel. With some states still implementing restrictions on in-person toll collections and limited rest area food sales, it’s essential to plan, so you won’t be caught unprepared.
Pack lots of snacks and sanitizer.
It almost goes without saying, but packing hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes and sprays, plus face masks and gloves is crucial for a safe road tripping experience. Health experts also recommend packing a resealable plastic bag to discard used gloves until you can safely throw them away.
If possible, pack your own snacks, drinks, and even meals to avoid entering rest stops as much as possible. This reduces your exposure to other people.
Take extra precautions at rest stops.
If you must stop at a rest area, be sure to wear a face mask, use gloves when handling gas station pumps, and opt for curbside pick up or outdoor dining when possible. Also, touchless payment options are encouraged.
Watch your speed.
With highways emptier than usual, Business Insider reported that more American drivers are speeding and participating in other reckless behaviors on the road. Stay alert and pay extra attention to your surroundings, including posted speed limits.
Guest Writer: Jessica Poitevien
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet has to offer and to share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Email Jessica at jpoitevien@mediacorpusa.com
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.