Coronavirus: Is it safe to travel yet? What to know before venturing out amid pandemic
Cabin fever prompted by the coronavirus stay-at-home orders is a real thing. After months in isolation, many people are feeling the itch to travel.
"They miss getting out and being with family and friends, so when they have the opportunity to travel, they will," said Jeanette Casselano, a spokeswoman for AAA.
But should they?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, because travel increases the chance of contracting and spreading COVID-19, staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from infection.
But if you decide to venture out, here's what you need to know:
--Don't take that trip if you're sick or have been around anyone who is sick or exposed to COVI19
--If you live in a virus hotspot, you may be an asymptomatic carrier - so wear a mask to protect others.
--Pack food, water, hand sanitizer and medicine, in case you have to self-quarantine.
--Check your destination's local health guidelines before you depart from home.
Some areas have mandatory quarantines in place. In Hawaii, that means two weeks in your hotel room before you're allowed outside - and penalties are enforced.
"Internationally, I wouldn't recomment right now to anybody if it's non-essential," said travel expert Jeannette Ceja. "There are still travel restrictions and borders that are not open to Americans."
AAA predicts a slow and gradual return to travel this summer, with many families staying close to home.
"People are going to gravitate towards road trips - to really explore America's backyard," said Casselano. "Your own car, your own belongings, as opposed to getting on a plane."
Casselano suggests trips to national parks such as Joshua Tree, which reopened last week. Yosemite coule reopen as early as June. But be prepared for limits on parking and overnight stays.
