Navigating Safe Travel in the Pandemic: Strategies and Experiences

During the pandemic, travel has become a balancing act between safety and adventure. Unlike conventional travel that often focuses on exploring new destinations, this period has required us to consider our health and the health of those around us. This article will share some of my experiences and strategies that have made long-distance travel both possible and enjoyable during the global pandemic.

Exploring Nova Scotia: A Cold yet Scenic Adventure

During the fall of 2021, the pandemic didn’t deter us from venturing to the farthest parts of Canada. Nova Scotia, a province renowned for its rolling landscapes and charming villages, was our destination. The easternmost part of the country, excluding Newfoundland, offered us a remote and breathtaking experience.

Cape Breton, in particular, was a highlight. Filled with rugged coastlines and quaint, picturesque villages, it’s a place where time seems to slow down. However, as the weather turned colder, we sought warmth and tropical vibes. The Maritime region, known for its mild winds and chilly October days, wasn't the ideal place for a tropical getaway.

Costa Rica: A Tropical Escape

In early January, we made the journey to Costa Rica. Landing in San Jose, we rented a car to explore the country freely. The hot springs around Arenal Volcano were a marvel, but the true allure of Costa Rica lay in its lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife.

When faced with the daunting task of traveling during a pandemic, our solution was to invest in a camper trailer. It has served as our mobile home, taking us to 13 states and ensuring we were self-sufficient on the road. Equipped with a queen-sized bed, a two-burner stove, a fridge, sink, toilet, and shower, the camper trailer became our home away from home.

The Safest Way to Travel in a Pandemic

Our most significant takeaway is that the safest way to travel is through an RV or van. This form of travel allows you to cook all your meals, significantly reducing the risk of contracting the virus through shared spaces or poor ventilation. Staying in your vehicle or RV also helps maintain a safe distance from others, lowering the chances of infection.

Adding to our safety measures, we carry a few COVID tests and perform them once a week or more, whether we have symptoms or not. Proper sanitation and regular hand washing are non-negotiables. These simple steps have made 2.5-month trips a truly fantastic experience, much better than the isolation of staying at home.

Car Travel: A Safer Alternative

Air travel during a pandemic is akin to playing Russian Roulette with more chambers. Car travel, on the other hand, offers a safer and more controlled environment. While it’s essential to prepare thoroughly, the rewards of flexibility and safety are well worth it.

Seasonal Pandemics: Cold and Flu Edition

The seasonal cold and flu can also be considered a pandemic, highlighting the need for safe travel practices even outside the strict scope of the current pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, my wife and I visited my parents in southern Germany twice. We used the most reliable car possible, packed hand disinfectant, pre-booked hotels with generous breakfast buffets, and wore masks at gas stations and public places. The 5000 km round trip took three days in each direction, and it was a successful journey.

Though the journey was long, the experience was worthwhile. Key aspects of our travel preparation included:

Stationary vehicle to avoid the risk of breakdown Packed hand sanitizers and masks Pre-booked hotels with no restaurant dining options Driving through scenic routes and spending time with family

These experiences have shown us that the best way to travel during a pandemic is with a carefully planned strategy that balances safety and adventure.