On the Road Again

Jul 15, 2020

We are all antsy to get out of our homes and cities to see something new and different. The pandemic continues, but does that mean all travel ceases? No way!

Now is the perfect time to plan a road trip. Gas prices are at an all-time low, and being in your car and not crowded in public transport or airlines make it a safe way to get out and explore.

But how? We’ll give you some tips.

1. Know where you want to go and what’s open when you get there.

There are places that are open, including some national parks and landmarks. Do some research on the places you’ll be driving through, and you can find out what’s open and available for exploration. A recent New York Times article informs you which states have travel restrictions. If you're traveling in Europe, Reopen Europa is another great resource to help you do your research.

2. Plan for your safety and health.

Keep an eye on the CDC website for up-to-date health advisories.

Pack plenty of personal and antiviral cleansing wipes, sanitizer, and extra masks. The goal is to bring back memories, not the coronavirus or other germs.

Have a first aid kit—not the one you’ve had for years that wastes away in your closet. Make sure that you have fresh supplies, including antibacterial creams, bug bite ointments, adhesive bandages, and pain relievers. A lot of first aid products have expiration dates, so keep your supplies updated.

3. Know what to pack

Bring a map! It seems old-fashion, but you can’t guarantee you’ll have cell phone service in all areas you’ll be driving through. Have a map and know the basics of how to read it in case you find yourself somewhere you didn’t plan on being.

Water. And a lot of it. Plan for each person to drink about half a gallon a day for every day you’re on the road. Then, pack extra water in case you add a day or two extra for your trip.

Basic Toiletries, including toilet paper. There might not be bathroom stops along the way. You’ll want to be prepared.

Clothes and shoes (duh.)

Large ice chest packed with excess ice, snacks, and food items. Not only does packing perishable and non-perishable food items keep your stomach full, but it also saves you money. If you have to go to restaurants or drive through for every meal, you’ll devastate your budget.

Finally, be a good citizen of the Earth. Wherever you go, leave no trace that you were there. Let’s keep the planet clean by throwing our trash away.

Still need a little inspiration to get out there? Watch this terrific video of our beloved Bria & Chrissy on their road trip to Mendocino:

We’d love to know where your next road trip will be! Let us know in the "Join the Conversation" section below or email us at Info@GayTravel.com and tell us about your adventures.

Use the social icons to share this article with your friends and family.

By Kariana Treacy. Kariana is the author of a brand new novel called Leave a Light On.

P.S. Don’t forget to become a GayTravel V.I.T. (Very Important Traveler) and receive the latest pearls of wisdom, perks, inspirations, and more!