Travel increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. Your chances of getting COVID-19 while traveling also depend on whether you and those around you take steps to protect yourself and others, such as wearing masks and staying 6 feet away from people outside your household. The following suggestions from the CDC may prove helpful when considering a trip.
Before You Travel
Before you travel, consider the following: Is COVID-19 spreading at your destination?The more cases at your destination, the more likely you are to get infected during travel and spread the virus to others when you return.
Anticipate Your Travel Needs
- Bring a mask to wear in public places.
- Pack hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep this within reach.
- Bring enough of your medicine to last you for the entire trip.
- Pack food and water in case restaurants and stores are closed, or if drive-through, take-out, and outdoor-dining options aren’t available.
- If you are considering cleaning your travel lodgings, see CDC’s guidance on how to clean and disinfect.
While You Are Travelling
During your trip, take steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
- Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public settings.
- Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart (about 2 arms’ length) from anyone who is not from your household.
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
- Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
You can get COVID-19 during your travels. You may feel well and not have any symptoms, but you can still spread COVID-19 to others. You and your travel companions may spread COVID-19 to other people including your family, friends, and community for 14 days after you were exposed to the virus.