After a long winter of work, it’s time to kick back, relax, and refresh during spring break.

Whether you’re taking a quick trip out of town or going on a destination vacation, spring break is one of the best times to spend with family and friends while making new memories (and, of course, catching up on much-needed sleep).

‍

‍

But life isn’t like it used to be: and in the midst of the pandemic, as well as ongoing health and safety concerns, traveling can bring new risks. That’s why, this year more than ever, you want to make sure that you keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Before you pack your bags and set out for your spring escape, make sure that you learn how to protect yourself.

‍

Make the right preparations, take the right precautions, and act fast in the necessary situations. As you set out, follow a few best practices. Here are the top 8 ways to stay safe this spring break:

‍

8 Tips and Tricks for Spring Break Safety

1. Research Travel Restrictions

Two years into the pandemic, travel restrictions are still in place — so it’s important that you know how they’ll affect you on your trip. Before you set sail or take flight, check with the CDC’s Travelers’ Health Guide to find out what restrictions await you.

‍

If you’re traveling in the US, look to the CDC’s COVID-19 by County Resource, which can give you local guidelines across the United States. Or, if you’re traveling internationally, check out the CDC’s International Travel page, which can give you the latest restrictions and recommendations abroad.

‍

2. Get Your Routine Vaccines

‍

Staying up-to-date on routine vaccines isn’t only important at home but also on the road, as you encounter new places and interact with new people. Vaccines include your COVID-19 vaccine and/or booster shots, and if you’re traveling internationally, other standard vaccines.

‍

The CDC reports that international travel can increase your chance of contracting diseases not typically found in the United States — so it’s important you protect yourself. Some common vaccines needed for travel are:

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis A & B
• Meningococcal
• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis
• Shingles

To learn more about travel vaccines, including which ones you based on your destination, visit the CDC’s vaccine resource.

And, if you’re in need of any routine vaccine, find a pharmacy near you and easily schedule an appointment with a trusted pharmacist in your community.

‍

3. Take COVID-19 Precautions

Even if you’re vaccinated, it’s important that you take the proper precautions against COVID-19 while traveling. If you can, try driving instead of flying — and if you have to fly, make sure that you do so carefully. Wear your mask, wash your hands, and keep your distance in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Once you arrive to your destination, try sticking to outdoor activities and areas; or if you’re inside, stick to places that require proof of vaccination. By taking these extra steps, you can make sure that you stay safe and don’t bring back illness.

‍

4. Prepare Your Documents

Any time you travel, you should take along the proper documentation. Your documents can include passports, prescriptions, emergency contact information, and everything in between.

‍

Documentation is important for domestic travel, but it’s essential for international trips, helping to ensure that you enter and exit your destination safely.

As you’re preparing your documents, make sure that you keep a copy of the following:

• Your passport and travel documents
• Your government-issued identification
• Your medical prescriptions
• Your health insurance card and documents
• Information of health care provider(s) at home
• Contact card with the information of a friend or family member
• Lodging at your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country

‍

5. Pack a First Aid Bag

As you pack your bags, don’t neglect the necessities. Pack a first aid kit that includes over-the-counter medicine, medical tools, and anything else that can aid you in a quick pinch. The right items can help you deal with everything from motion sickness to minor bumps and bruises to serious emergencies.

‍

Most importantly, though, they can give you greater peace of mind as you set out on your travels.

To get an idea of what to pack in your bag, visit our blog, 12 Supplies for Your First Aid Kit. And, to find the right medications for you, visit The Top 10 Medications to Keep in Your Cabinet. You can find all of these items (and more) at your local pharmacy.

6. Plan for Unexpected Issues

Preparation is one of the best ways to keep yourself safe, but accidents can still happen. It’s likely that you’ll encounter a hiccup or two on your trip, but if you’re prepared, you can quickly solve the problem and get back to enjoying your trip.

‍

There are plenty of ways that you can further prepare and protect yourself before, during, and after your travels. Try to:

• Get travel insurance
• Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
• Find healthcare resources at your destination
• Take recommended medications as directed
• Wear a MedicAlert bracelet if you have serious medical conditions

‍

7. Protect Yourself and Others

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s important that you stay on alert, as tourists can be targets for crimes. Keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe and mitigate your risk by following a few best practices:

• Travel in pairs, always arriving and leaving with others
• Keep to public spaces instead of secluded areas
• Share your location and travel itinerary with people back home
• Safeguard your hotel room with devices like door jams
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at nighttime
• Keep your belongings near you or on your person
• Know the proper authorities to get in touch with, in the event of an emergency

‍

8. Stay Healthy

In the midst of all the fun, you might forget to keep up with your health. It’s important that you practice healthy habits to avoid accidents and prevent long-term damage. Between each of your adventures, don’t forget to:

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
• Avoid bug bites by using insect repellent
• Practice water safety
• Chose safe foods and drinks
• Avoid excessive alcohol use and illicit substances
• Be mindful of your health and any new or changing symptoms
• Don’t travel if you are sick

‍

‍

Conclusion

‍

Spring break is the prime time to relax and refresh. By following the right guidelines, you can keep yourself safe on your upcoming trip. Prepare well, pack accordingly, and protect yourself against any threats; and you’ll be sure to have a trip to remember. Happy travels!

‍