As COVID-19 began to spread throughout the US this spring, we all spent months at home doing everything we could to stay safe and healthy. While it feels good to know we’ve done a little to help combat the spread of the illness, we also know that as areas around the state began to open back up for business many of us started itching to get out of the house and into fresh air. The problem here is two-fold: we’re still supposed to be staying close to home and the pandemic is still ongoing. Add on top of that the fact that most folks are used to taking our family vacations and getaways during the summer and darn it—we miss vacation! We used to take for granted how readily we could just book a flight, rent a car and explore pretty much wherever we wanted and how we wanted. Well kids, as much as we hate to say it, that ship has sailed, at least for a while. Public safety just has to come first.
Knowing that, there IS a way to get away during a pandemic and prioritize not only your own health, but that of others as well. Taking a road trip can be a great way to grab a little change of scenery but only if you do it safely. (We can’t emphasize this enough!) Planning ahead and being committed to safe and healthy practices is essential.
Make sure your vehicle is road trip ready! Start out with a fresh oil change, topped-off fluids, tires aired-up properly and in good condition, fresh wiper blades, and of course, a full tank of gas (unless of course you’re driving an electric car, in which case, plan where you will charge up .) Place GPS and/or road maps where they are easily accessible. Pack a first-aid kit, flashlight with fresh batteries, and if possible, an extra key. Pack for comfort and ease of travel. Do NOT forget charging cables (you know at least one will go missing or stop working right when you need it, so bring at least one spare.
Plan to put all permits and passes in a readily available location (not the dashboard where they will inevitably blow out the window when you can't resist driving with the windows down).
If you’re planning to head into the outdoors, make sure you have a mask or face covering easily accessible in case you aren’t able to maintain a minimum of 6 feet of distance between yourself and others. Plan to have at least one back up in your backpack or bag in case your primary mask is dropped or lost. Plan to have at least one back backup in your vehicle. The same goes for hand sanitizer. Be sure to carry some on your person while out and about, while also having a backup in your pack or bag, and a backup in your vehicle.
And last but not least, be sure to leave a copy of your travel itinerary with a loved one or friend. As much as we all try to plan ahead and be prepared for anything, life has a way of throwing us curveballs—even when we’re already in a pandemic. It’s always safest to make sure at least one person knows where you’ll be throughout your journey.
The Cascade Loop Scenic Byway LOVES having visitors but we love having safe communities and healthy people even more. Happy and safe traveling!
