After nearly a year of restricted travel, many people are feeling the need to get away. But is it possible to travel while practicing social distancing? While some of the more traditional vacation ideas may not be possible yet, Daniel Calugar has ways to travel while socially distancing.
Densely populated areas, as tempting as they may be, are not a good idea at this time. Air travel is probably not the best choice, either – spending hours in a mask on a crowded plane is no fun. But there are some travel ideas that will allow you to maintain social distancing while still enjoying your vacation.
- Road Trips
Being alone in the car or with people in your immediate circle is a guaranteed way to social distance. You will have to stop for meals, however, so plan ahead. Avoid restaurants by bringing a cooler or picnic basket and stopping at a pretty spot to eat outdoors. Research your destination online to find more secluded areas to explore so you can avoid crowds.
2. Outdoor Experiences
Whether you travel out of town or decide to take a “stay-cation,” it is a much easier task to social distance if you are outdoors. Stay outside as much as possible and give yourself room to spread out. There are numerous activities for you to enjoy: horseback riding, hiking, surfing lessons, fishing; the list is endless. Try something new for a truly memorable experience.
- Remote Stays
Vacation hot spots are popular for a reason, but a crowded seaside town will make it hard to maintain social distancing. Instead, a remote stay might be your best option if you want to get away from it all. Avoid crowds altogether by forgoing hotels. Instead, try renting a mountain cabin or a lake house in a small town. You can enjoy your travels – and some solitude.
- Camping
If you like being outdoors, camping (or glamping) offers another excellent option for socially distanced travel. Research campsites ahead of time to find one that isn’t too crowded. Weekdays may be a better option. Because you will mainly stay outdoors, you can be with a group of friends yet still have room to spread out. And the surrounding nature activities will give you socially distanced entertainment options, from hiking to swimming to exploring nearby trails.
- Extreme Sports
If the tranquility of a quiet getaway doesn’t appeal to you, try an extreme sport. Many of these can be done solo or 1-on-1 with an instructor so that you can avoid crowds. Depending on the weather, your options could include hang gliding, kayaking, snowboarding, or even rock climbing.
- Day Trips
Similar to a road trip, but you will avoid hotels by returning home every night. Map out interesting, but not overly touristy, nearby cities. Aim for drives under 2 hours, so you can enjoy your day exploring. Look for areas with secluded beaches or parks for you to discover on your own.
It might not be your dream vacation, but with a little creativity and flexibility, socially distanced travel is still possible.
About Daniel Calugar
Dan Calugar is an investor and tech enthusiast with an academic background in computer science, business, and law. He is also a volunteer with Angel Flight, providing free non-emergency air transportation to people who need transportation for medical treatment. When he isn’t volunteering, he enjoys traveling the world with his life partner, working out, and spending time with his friends and family.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.
