Tips on what to pack for the pandemic

A sign at Glover Park in Marietta, Ga., on Aug. 16, 2020, urges visitors to wear masks and practice social distancing.

What to pack is the age-old question for any trip.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life everywhere we look, and traveling is no exception.

While many people have chosen not to travel, it is still possible to take a trip and break away from the mandated isolation. It may just require taking a slightly different approach to packing.

Here are a few tips on things to pack for your next pandemic getaway.

Masks

Many jurisdictions have mask or face covering requirements. While many establishments in those places will give customers free coverings, it’s best to bring your own to be safe.

Even if you’re opposed to wearing a mask, perhaps it’ll be worth donning one for a short time to take in your favorite eatery.

Hand Sanitizer

Many people traveled with this travel essential before the pandemic. But it is even more critical today.

Be sure to buy a sanitizer with a high enough alcohol content and apply liberally.

Snacks

Some travelers may not feel comfortable popping into convenience stores. Particularly for road trips, drinks and snacks are easy to pack in a cooler with an ice pack or two.

You may still have to stop for gas or use other facilities, but you can at least eliminate the need to stand in line for pretzels or chips.

Other sanitary items

Selecting what sanitary items to pack is a bit of a personal decision. In addition to hand sanitizer, some may want to pack disinfectant wipes or gloves.

There is no right or wrong decision on this one, but if you bring these items with you, you won’t have to worry about whether you’ll be able to find them on the road.

Whatever you don’t want to shop for

Packing whatever you don’t want to shop for is probably a good habit for any trip, even those not falling amid the pandemic. But it seems a little more timely at the moment.

It is still possible to shop, and many businesses are taking the pandemic seriously and cleaning accordingly. If you’re worried about spending in enclosed spaces, plan to limit your trips by making a checklist of everything you envision you’ll need on your journey.