The view from the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
The view from the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.

Tips to avoid getting and spreading COVID-19 while traveling

By: UAMS

Traveling post-COVID can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Arkansas Tourism has partnered with UAMS Health to provide this infographic full of handy tips to avoid getting and spreading COVID-19 in common travel situations.

Tips to avoid getting and spreading COVID-19 in common travel situations

  • Wear a mask in public settings.
  • Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from anyone who is not from your household. 

Bathrooms and Rest Stops

  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom and after you have been in a public place.
  • If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Getting Gas

  • Use disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons at the gas pumps before you touch them (if available).
  • After fueling, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. When you get to your destination, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Hotel and Accommodations

  • Stay home if sick.
  • Wear masks in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
  • Use social distancing (stay at least 6 feet away from others).
  • Before you go, call and ask what extra prevention strategies they are using, like requiring staff to wear masks.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when you get home.

Food Stops

  • The safest option is to bring your own food. If you don’t bring your own food, use drive-through, delivery, take-out, and curbside pick-up options.

Anticipate Your Travel Needs

  • Bring a mask to wear in public places.
  • Pack hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep this within reach.
  • Bring enough of your medicine to last you for the entire trip.
  • Pack food and water in case restaurants and stores are closed, or if drive-through,  take-out, and outdoor-dining options aren’t available.
  • If you are considering cleaning your travel lodgings, see CDC’s guidance on how to clean and disinfect on their website at cdc.gov.

Learn more

Infographic detailing how to stay safe while traveling.