Travel plans might be in your near future but in the midst of a pandemic, I’m sure you’re wondering what it’s like to travel with children and how to make it safe and easy. Many people have chosen to cancel plans and I think that’s wise and understandable. If you or a family member has a medical condition that makes them more vulnerable, I would absolutely cancel a trip. However, great travel deals are out there, special events are still happening, and getting stir crazy at home can make traveling seem like something to consider.
Flying
Air travel is notorious for exposing people to illnesses. Taking a road trip would be a safer option but if you choose to fly, here are some things to take note of:
With fewer travelers, parts of airports are closed. There are less food options and much less shopping. Plan accordingly. Bring snacks. Bring empty water bottles to fill up after passing through security.
My airport experiences were faster than usual but I could also see that with less staff and options, on a busy day, things could potentially be backed up. I waited at most 5 minutes at the ticket counter. TSA had no waits- there was no line whatsoever at both airports I visited.
People were good about spreading out. The group didn’t gather as much around our specific gate but spread out in the general area.
Airplanes are being cleaned more thoroughly so a morning flight would mean a cleaner plane.
There is no food or beverage service at all on many airlines. Don’t forget snacks!
Here are my specific suggestions for air travel to make you prepared and minimize your exposure:
Have a ton of pep-talks in advance. Remind your child for a week that they HAVE to wear a mask the whole time. Talk about staying together and what to do if you’re separated. Tell them about a reward at the destination if they do a good job.
Wear a mask during every part of your public experience. On busses, in the airport, in the bathrooms, on the plane, etc.
Wash hands after TSA and before boarding the plane.
Did I mention to bring snacks and empty bottles for water?!
Bring plenty of disinfecting wipes in a Ziplock. Wipe down the seats you wait in at the gate. Wipe down your airplane seats, trays, walls, window and handle, seatbelt, light switch and vent, etc. The stewards will collect them routinely.
Don’t store anything in your (filthy) seatback pocket.
Ask to move to the very back of the plane if your assigned seats look crowded.
The items you use on the plane (blanket, stuffed animals, etc.) need to be washed or disinfected before use at your destination. I didn’t give my son anything snuggly that I couldn’t wipe off.
Bring multiple masks and multiple styles. We loved disposable surgical masks during our air travels.
Keep your belongings minimal onboard. Snacks, sanitizer/wipes, entertainment, cash, and travel documents/ID are all you need. Check a stroller if you have to and avoid bringing it to the gate. Baby-wearing is a perfect way to minimize touching surfaces.
Don’t hand over the iPad right away. If you can walk around the airport instead of waiting at the gate, that will be a good distraction and wear a toddler down. The longer you can entertain them without technology, the better the technology will entertain them when you are desperate. Have Netflix downloads ready! If the child does okay without an iPad, don’t use it! But the real goal is to keep them occupied, safe, and from touching 700 things.
When You Get There
Avoid hugs and close contact with friends and family- at least until you’ve showered and changed clothing.
Don‘t wear your shoes in the house/hotel room. They have been in public bathrooms and exposed to a ton of things- leave them at the door.
Shower and change immediately upon arrival.
Disinfect or wash anything you see necessary.
Consider social distancing, even with family at the destination.
Things To Do
Almost all attractions require special reservations, masks, etc. Research your plans and make sure you know what to expect. Stay flexible.
Taxis, Busses, and Subways
I’d also suggest wiping down seats on public transportation. If the weather permits and the driver doesn’t mind, ride with your window down. Try to space yourself out on busses and subways. Play an I Spy game to occupy little ones.
Hotels
Hotels are doing their best to clean, disinfect, and cycle through rooms strategically to keep you safe. Wipe down high-touch surfaces in hotels like remotes, refrigerators, and light switches. Consider bringing a can of disinfectant in your checked luggage, spray the room, and leave for a bit before coming back. You might consider not having housekeeping do their daily duties in your room to minimize outside exposure. If you feel more comfortable, wait for an empty elevator or take the stairs.
Now is an unusual time to travel but there are plenty of reasons to do it if you feel comfortable. Be safe, be smart, and go explore!