MADISON, Wisconsin (SPECTRUM NEWS) – With Labor Day weekend just around the corner, many people are wondering how to travel in the coronavirus pandemic world.
AAA has published a list of tips and resources for travelers to better prepare them for what to expect.
“Labor Day is usually the last big hurray for the summer travel season,” said Nick Jarmusz, director of public affairs at AAA – The Auto Club Group. “When the students are back in school, the majority of travelers are most likely to go on a three-day road trip. We encourage travelers to use these free resources in developing their travel plans. “
COVID-19 travel resources
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COVID-19 travel restriction card from AAA offers updated COVID-related travel restrictions, checkpoints and closings.
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AAA TripTiks Help map your route and find open gas stations, hotels, restaurants, campsites, auto repair shops, attractions and more.
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AAA mobile app can be downloaded for free to access all of the resources listed above, including travel restrictions for COVID-19, while on the go.
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AAA’s Best of Housekeeping highlights AAA Diamond hotels that are recognized for implementing the highest standards of cleaning.
Road trip tips
- Prepare your vehicle. Visit a AAA approved auto repair shop to make sure your vehicle is ready to drive. Some vehicles may have been idle for months and should be checked.
- Planned stops. Destinations and companies may have adjusted their operating hours.
- Pack cleansers and face covers. Some regions have regulations that mandate the use of masks.
- Pack food and water. This could reduce the number of visits to the store.
- Get out of the lane if your car breaks down. When faced with a vehicle emergency, safely steer your car off the lane. Turn on the emergency lights to alert other drivers and, if possible, leave the vehicle on the side facing away from traffic. When everyone is in a safe place, contact a road service provider.
Stay in a hotel
- Call before. Ask about restrictions or changes to facilities and the check-in process. Inquire about their cleaning protocols.
- Understand cancellation policy. Hotel cancellation policies may vary depending on when you booked, which website you used and whether the booking was made at a special rate.
- Bring detergent. While many hoteliers are implementing improved cleaning protocols, personally disinfecting high-touch areas can provide additional security.
AAA also reminds travelers to drive sober.
“Preparing is of the utmost importance for people planning to travel during this pandemic,” Jarmusz said. “But it’s not just about protecting yourself from the virus. With the influx of drivers expected for Labor Day weekend, it is also important that travelers behind the wheel make safe decisions. Please ensure that you buckle up, slow down and avoid distracted and impaired driving. These are simple steps to reduce the most common fatal accidents. “
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-impaired driving accounts for nearly a third of all road deaths. Additionally, 47% of people killed in vehicle accidents in 2017 were not wearing a seat belt, so AAA is reminding drivers to buckle up.
