Many of us look forward to summer all year.Hot, sunny weather, hanging out by the pool/pond, campfires at night, and maybe even going with friends or family on vacation! But this summer will be much different considering we are in the midst of a global pandemic.Depending on where you’re at and where you’re going, there are some travel restrictions, social distancing guidelines, facemask mandatories, and quarantines in place that will probably have a direct effect on your travel plans.

If you are planning a road trip, here are five tips for taking one during the current global pandemic.#1: Check State Travel Restrictions If you plan on leaving your state, do a quick check online and make sure you are able to enter that state.Here you can find a map of states that have/had interstate travel restrictions.

This map will also be helpful in planning your road trip route.#2: Don’t Forget Your Mask and Hand Sanitizer You will likely need to stop at a gas station or grocery store along the way to your destination, so make sure that your mask is readily available whenever you make a pit stop.If this is a family road trip, consider matching masks as a fun idea.

They might not be your typical matching Disney shirts, but they would make a cute and safe alternative.Also, don’t forget the hand sanitizer! This will be a staple when stopping for gas or bathroom breaks.#3: Download Fast Food Apps This will come in handy for quick stops for food along the way.

Most fast-food restaurants have free apps where you are able to order in advance, as well as pay through the app.This will cut down on the spread of germs since you won’t have to hand over your payment to the cashier.Also, ordering through an app is typically quicker and has less margin for error.

Win, win! #4: Download Apple Pay or Google Pay on Your Smartphone Apple and Google both offer free apps where you can save your credit card information to your phone and pay by a simple scan near the reader.This is another great way to lessen the spread of germs.Also, most people typically have their phone handy, so you won’t have to fumble around in your purse or wallet searching for your card or cash.

Use this option wherever possible! #5: Call/Book Hotels in Advance This will allow you to secure a room, as well as give you information on the hotel ahead of time.Some hotels closed due to the Coronavirus, so you don’t want to go on a wild goose chase just to find a bed to sleep in for the night.Online booking tends to have more discounts and deals as well.

Another tip: many insurance carriers offer a Roadside Assistance coverage option that connects you with a network of automotive and towing service providers who can help if something should happen to your vehicle on your road trip.Roadside Assistance coverage can include all or some of the following: Towing services Fluid delivery (gas, oil, water) Jump starts Winching services Tire changes Concierge services (alternate transportation, hotel reservations, etc.) Check with your independent agent to see if your coverage offers Roadside Assistance and what services are available to you.Although this may not be the summer vacation you have been anticipating, a road trip might be just the thing you need.

You can change your plans as you go, see attractions you wouldn’t normally see if you tend to travel by airplane, and get out of the house since we have been cooped up for so long.Who knows, maybe you will love it and make road tripping a new summer tradition.Have fun & stay safe! The information above is of a general nature and your policy and coverages provided may differ from the examples provided.

Please read your policy in its entirety to determine your actual coverage available.Share this:FacebookTwitterLinkedInMoreEmailPrintLike this: