Holidays, made to spend time with the ones you love. But is it safe to go out and celebrate this year with those loved ones? Well, let us discuss the risks you might face while traveling this year.
When traveling this season, you must consider the possible risk of exposure to COVID-19. It might not affect you, but it might affect the ones you are spending time with. So it is crucial to plan how to stay safe and possibly receive a COVID-19 test before seeing higher risk family and friends. You also must consider if your gathering is essential in person. Additionally, see if it is possible for your interactions and meeting to be done outdoors or socially distanced.
According to Hopper’s Holiday Travel Confidence Report, studies have shown that about 39% of people plan to travel for Thanksgiving. In comparison, 21% said they usually would but will not due to COVID-19 concerns. Of those surveyed, 55 percent said Thanksgiving would be their first time traveling since the start of the pandemic.
These traveling reports are very important to keep in mind. With so many on the road, in airports, trains, and more, it will become harder to follow social distancing guidelines. This can also include even in restaurants and anywhere you are traveling to.
Plus, with traveling, there are different states that follow different laws. As many states only allow indoor guests up to 10 in a home. Or just as October 27th, New York had put a two-week quarantine for any travels into the state. Before traveling, make sure to check all of the state guidelines before you are stuck quarantining the entire break!
“When you are traveling, please wear protection (at least a mask), and if you are going to see someone, get tested because it makes everyone around you comfortable,” said junior Kelly Bowdle, who is traveling by car to see family this break. “I have gotten tested a bunch of times, and it is not terrible, and it is worth it to be close to your family and friends.”
Overall, the decision is entirely yours. It has been a difficult year, but try and choose the most reasonable option and try to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Remember to stay safe, and Happy Thanksgiving!
