With the worst of the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic now in the past, maybe you’ve started to notice that things are finally starting to open up again and feel more like normal. Maybe you even have summer plans this year that actually involve you leaving your house! Yay!
As life begins to return to normal and we all begin to immerge out of hiding, it can seem like a daunting task learning how to go about life again. The Covid pandemic definitely has left its mark on the world and even though we want things to go back to how they have always been, the world remains changed. As you begin planning your outings and vacations you might find yourself a bit overwhelmed at all the new rules and guidelines that Covid has created. You may even be wondering how to safely get back outside and enjoy all your favorite adventures again. In this post, I want to share with you a few tips to help make all your outdoor activities run smooth even amidst all the Covid craziness. So let’s go!
Educate yourself beforehand
First things first, do your research. No one wants to arrive at their destination only to realize that the park they chose to visit is closed due to covid restrictions. There are still many places that are closed or limiting the number of people they allow at a time due to Covid. Simply taking some time before your trip to educate yourself about current covid conditions for the area you are visiting can go a long way in making your trip run smoothly. Things you may want to consider as you plan; Is there a limit for how many people can stay? Are there any mask rules in place? Can you reserve a place or is it on a first come first serve basis?
Shop Local and Pack what you need
One easy and simple way to protect yourself from the virus is to pack all your food and gear for your trip before you leave. If you are the slightest bit worried about traveling and being exposed to the virus, a huge way to limit your exposure to germs in the air is to do all your shopping locally so that you don’t have to visit any grocery stores while you are in a new area. The fewer people you run into the less likely you are to come into contact with the virus.
Pick lesser-known areas and have a backup plan
So many places are either closed or limiting the number of people they allow into their park. Because of social distancing rules, many places are closing once they reach a certain quota and if you arrive too late you might not be able to go in. One thing to consider would be picking a lesser-known area for your camping trip or vacation. A lesser-known area is not as likely to fill up and you won’t have to worry about social distancing issues when there are fewer people. Also, it is always wise to have a backup plan ready just in case your first choice doesn’t work out.
Stay clean even when outdoors
Cleanliness is key when it comes to protecting yourself against the virus. But camping and cleanliness are two words that shouldn’t be in the same sentence. It is not easy to stay clean when you are surrounded by dirt. But there are a few really easy ways to bring cleanliness into the outdoors. You can set up a simple hand washing station at your campsite, all you need is a bowl, soap, and water. Fill the bowl with water and use it to rinse your hands after scrubbing with soap. Another easy way to keep the germs away while your camping is by adding hand sanitizer to your packing list. If for some reason you can’t wash your hands you can pull out your hand sanitizer and clean your hands.
Be prepared to poop in the woods
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but there are many places that have yet to open their restrooms to the public. But the good news is that the great outdoors is never closed. When you plan your trip make sure you add TP to your list and be prepared to use the outdoors when the bathroom is closed. (another option I want to mention is you can pack a small potty chair and keep it in your car for those who need a little more privacy than just ducking behind a tree.)
Get Outside!
The last little bit of advice I have is to just do it! Plan your trip and get outside! If things come up and Covid restrictions end up not being avoidable, it’ not the end of the world. If there is anything that Covid is teaching us, it’s to make the best out of the worst situations. So don’t let whatever it is that is holding you back from getting out there keep you home any longer. Plan your trip and let us know in the comments how it goes!
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