With summer vacation drawing near, how can consumers enjoy their time but still stay safe during this pandemic? With some careful preparations, planning, packing, and protocols, it is possible to have an enjoyable holiday without worry of COVID-19 risks. Furthermore, it makes sense to honor National Vacation Rental Month in July by taking the time and effort to make the most of time away.
Do you have summer vacation plans in place? It is not too early to begin making plans and preparations for your time away- particularly amid the unpredictability of the pandemic. There is no reason to cancel your vacation plan or reservations, but it does make sense to begin preparing for what might be a different vacation than any other that you have previously taken. Also, if you have physical limitations or mobility issues, talk to a reputable retailer about mobility aids and devices that will help you enjoy your time and experiences to the fullest.
Risks Surrounding COVID-19
Coronavirus has certainly put a cramp in many consumers’ vacation plans this summer. If you ask the experts, they will tell you that there really is no way to prevent the risk of exposure to COVID-19 when going away on vacation. The best way to completely avoid contracting Coronavirus is a staycation, or put simply, to stay at home. Even though traveling increases the risk of becoming infected, there are precautions and tips that can help reduce the chance that you will contract COVID-19 when you travel.
Preparing to Leave
According to an industry study, planning a trip frustrates and burns-out more than one third of vacationers (37%) – before they even leave! The purpose of a vacation is to unwind and relax so if planning for time away is that stressful, it may be best to stay home. Start early when possible and take your time planning your vacation online; make planning the vacation enjoyable. The more thoroughly you plan, the less stress you will have to deal with while you are away.
Part of planning and preparing for your trip includes checking out the guidelines and rules in place at your vacation destination. Some areas may still have stay-at-home orders or be hot-spots for COVID-19 cases. There may also be mandated quarantines for visitors. Do your due diligence online and follow those guidelines when traveling. Make sure to ask questions to ensure you have a solid understanding before you leave- which may prevent hassle and headache during your time away.
Packing What to Take
Depending on how you are traveling, you may want to pack food and water in the event establishments are not open in your vacation destination or during your trip. Make sure to pack face masks, as some areas may mandate this, and enough hand-sanitizer to get you through your journey. Remember that face masks can be hard to breathe through when you get them wet so do not wear it swimming or when bathing.
Readying the Rental
Vacation is not the time to stop vigilant sanitizing and hand washing. Ask your hotel or host what they are doing to clean and prepare considering the pandemic; bring sanitizing wipes to give surfaces a quick disinfectant before settling in, and throughout the vacation. Ask about cleaning practices and do not feel odd asking tough questions; they should be prepared to answer. Use the wipes or sanitizer to wipe the steering wheel of the rental car, doorknobs in the lodging, and common areas on boats or planes. Turn on fans, vents, or other features that help circulate the air whenever possible, too.
Extra Care for Consumers
When planning and preparing for vacation, take a little extra care for seniors and those using mobility aids. Ensure that no one in the traveling party has been sick or had exposure to someone who is sick. Since the virus is less likely transmitted outside, plan on outdoor activities during your vacation like the beach, hiking trails, or national parks. Remember to stay six feet away from others and observe social distancing rules during your vacation- regardless of where you go.
National Vacation Rental Month
July is National Vacation Rental Month, and celebrations include booking a stay in a vacation rental home. This is a bit different than other vacations in that you have at-home amenities, like a kitchen and separate sleeping space, so it can seem more casual and relaxed. This may be a comfortable and convenient option for families taking time away for the first-time following fears surrounding COVID-19.
Enjoy your vacation with the right mobility aids to ensure autonomy and access during your time away. Talk to the professionals at Pacific Mobility to learn more or to schedule your no-obligation needs assessment today! Use these tips to help make going away this summer safe and enjoyable.
President, Husband, Father, Grandfather Graduate of UC Davis- Bio Sci Major- Go Aggies! Jeff has extensive experience in all of Pacific Mobility’s products and services, and specializes in accessibility products as well as stairlifts, ceiling lifts and custom wheel chairs. His hobbies include spending time with family, gardening, mountain biking, exercising and off road motorcycle riding.
24 years as Owner/President of Pacific Mobility Center – selling, installing, and servicing stairlifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, pool lifts, handicap ramping, specialty wheelchairs, scooters, power wheel chairs, and other power mobility devices
Certified Environmental Access Consultant since 2008
Licensed General Contractor since 1998
Certified Aging in Place Specialist since 2016
Board Member for Home Access Professionals
Member of Association of Members of the Accessibility Equipment Industry (AEMA)