Tips for Traveling in the “New Normal” World

The spring of 2020 has brought so many changes to our world thanks to COVID-19. So, I thought I’d share my tips for traveling in the “new normal” world! I’ve found them to be helpful to me while planning and executing trips this summer and I hope you do too!

Traveling Around

We’ve been pretty spoiled the last few years as we have been able to travel about wherever and anywhere we want (or at least that we can afford!)! The spring COVID-19 pandemic brought all that to a screeching halt. While this time allowed (and mandated) for me to slow down, it’s also been hard on my traveling soul. Slowing down has been ok, I’ve learned to be content with just being, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say that my bucket needed to be filled by exploring!

As the state of Iowa began to slowly open up, I knew I needed to get out. So, I began to plan our first day trip! Through that experience and my own day-to-day experiences, I’ve compiled these tips for traveling to keep you safe!

*Please note that I am not an expert of any sorts, these are just what I have found useful to me and my situation! Please don’t do anything that you feel uncomfortable with!

Things to “Pack”

Even if you’re heading out on a day trip, packing some essentials is a great idea! Here’s what I think is essential for traveling in this “new normal”.

• Hand Sanitizer – I have 2 small bottles of hand sanitizer with me! I keep one in my purse for when we’re out and about and I have one in the car to use before and after entering public spaces (I like to make sure my hands are clean before and after opening doors)!
• Face Masks – It really doesn’t matter which side of the face mask debate that you lie, I recommend taking one or two along with you for your travels. You have no idea where you may end up or stop in which you are required to wear one!

• Snacks – I have to be honest that I have always and will always pack snacks to have in the car when traveling, but I think it’s even more important now to limit your exposure to public places like gas stations!
• Cleaning Products – This is a great time to take your own cleaning products to places. While some people prefer disposable sanitzing wipes, I always pack my Norwex Travel EnviroCloth & Wipe Bag! This allows me to clean surfaces wherever I am plus care for the world by reusing these antimicrobial cloths!

Plan Your Trip

Do Your Research

Now more than ever it’s important to plan your trip accordingly. Not all businesses have opened to full capacity or to regular hours yet, so it is important to make sure to do some research to ensure that the places you want to visit will be open!

Find Outdoor Activities

This is a great time to explore outdoor activities as it’s much easier to socially distance from others when outdoors! The great state of Iowa offers lots of different outdoor activities, a lot which are free! This is the perfect time to partake in them!

Be Patient & Gracious

As you’re out and about, please remember that everyone is still learning how to navigate this “new normal”. Everyone has had a different experience through this and everyone is emerging and moving on at a different rate.

When you’re in a public place, please remember to keep your distance as much as possible when among other people! We have no idea what has been going on in the background for the folks around us.

Finally, be patient and flexible. Businesses and destinations are navigating this “new normal” just as much as those of us doing the traveling! Be patient if things aren’t perfectly smooth and be flexible. Due to current world climate conditions, hours and rules change frequently, so you may have to amend your plan mid-trip! Make the best of it and continue on!

Go on An Adventure

Traveling in today’s world is slightly different than it has been in the past, but that doesn’t mean it’s over! These tips for traveling in the “new normal” world will help ensure that you have a great trip regardless of how far or how long you go! Enjoy the ride!