Car Camping in the COVID-19 Era: Health and Safety Guidelines

As we navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to prioritize our health and safety while still finding ways to enjoy the outdoors. Car camping provides a fantastic opportunity to experience nature and adventure while maintaining social distancing measures. In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive guidelines on how to stay safe and responsible during your car camping trips.

COVID-19 has brought about changes in the way we approach everyday activities, and car camping is no exception. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to follow the recommended guidelines and safety measures specifically tailored for camping during this pandemic. By doing so, we can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities while still enjoying the great outdoors.

In the following sections, we will provide you with valuable information on packing essentials, choosing safe destinations and routes, booking secure lodging, taking necessary safety precautions during the drive, eating safely, conducting safety check-ins, exploring outdoor and private camping options, and embracing the “new normal” for car camping. By following these guidelines, you can embark on a car camping adventure with confidence, knowing that you are doing your part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Packing Essentials and Tips for Car Camping

When preparing for a car camping trip during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to pack essential items to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some key items that we recommend including in your car camping packing list:

1. Hand sanitizer: Pack enough hand sanitizer to use throughout your trip. Look for one with at least 60% alcohol content to effectively kill germs.
2. Face masks: Bring an ample supply of face masks to wear when in public places or when social distancing is not possible.
3. Disinfecting wipes: These wipes come in handy for cleaning surfaces and high-touch areas, such as picnic tables or restroom facilities.
4. Paper lunch bags: Use these bags to dispose of used wipes, napkins, or other personal trash items to help keep your campsite clean.
5. Thermometer: Having a thermometer on hand allows you to monitor your temperature and catch any signs of illness early.
6. Disposable latex gloves: Gloves can provide an extra layer of protection when touching surfaces or handling shared equipment.
7. Hand soap: Bring a portable bottle of hand soap to ensure proper handwashing, especially when facilities may not offer soap.
8. Extra doses of medication: If you take regular medication, make sure to pack extra doses in case of any unforeseen circumstances or delays.
9. Health insurance cards: It’s always a good idea to have your health insurance cards readily available for easy access in case of emergencies.

Packing these essentials will help you maintain proper hygiene and reduce the risk of infection while on the road. Remember to also pack other camping essentials such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking utensils, and food supplies.

“Packing these essential items ensures that we are prepared for any situation, allowing us to enjoy our car camping adventure with peace of mind during these uncertain times.” – Car Camping Enthusiast

Choosing a Safe Destination and Route for Car Camping

When planning your car camping adventure during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to prioritize safety by choosing a safe destination and route. By researching the camping restrictions, COVID-19 travel restrictions, and current conditions of the areas you plan to visit, you can ensure a responsible and enjoyable trip. Here are some steps to guide you in selecting a safe car camping destination:

1. Check local websites: Visit the official websites of the cities and counties you plan to visit to gather information on their current travel guidelines and restrictions. Look for any camping restrictions during the pandemic and any specific guidelines for outdoor activities.
2. Identify coronavirus hotspots: Determine if there are any areas with high COVID-19 cases or outbreaks in the regions you plan to camp. It’s advisable to avoid these hotspots to reduce the risk of exposure.
3. Consult travel restriction maps: Use resources like AAA’s COVID-19 Travel Restriction map to obtain up-to-date information on travel restrictions specific to your desired destinations. This will help you stay informed about any travel requirements, quarantine regulations, or closures.

By following these guidelines and doing thorough research, you can choose a safe car camping destination and route that align with the COVID-19 guidelines and travel restrictions. This will ensure that you can have a memorable and responsible experience while adhering to health and safety measures.

Booking Safe Lodging for Car Camping

When planning your car camping trip, ensuring the safety of your lodging is crucial. To prioritize safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s essential to research the guidelines and protocols followed by hotels and lodging establishments in the areas you plan to stay. Here are some important steps to take when booking your accommodation:

1. Research COVID-19 Hotel Guidelines: Before making a reservation, thoroughly investigate the COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations provided by hotels. Look for detailed information on their websites regarding enhanced cleaning protocols, social distancing measures, and staff training.
2. Contact Hotels for Details: Reach out to the hotels directly to inquire about the specific safety measures they have implemented. Ask about their sanitizing procedures, such as regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces and availability of hand sanitizing stations. Additionally, inquire about their adherence to social distancing guidelines.
3. Pay in Advance: Whenever possible, pay for your lodging in advance to minimize in-person transactions. This reduces the need for physical contact during the check-in and check-out processes, making the experience safer for both guests and hotel staff.
4. Online Check-In: Check if the hotel offers online check-in options. This convenient feature allows you to check-in remotely, minimizing the time spent in the lobby and reducing contact with other guests or staff.
5. Consider Getting Tested: If you plan to visit high-risk individuals during your car camping trip, consider getting a COVID-19 test before your departure. This precautionary measure ensures that you are not unknowingly carrying the virus and helps protect vulnerable populations.

Making informed decisions when booking your lodging will help you stay safe and enjoy a worry-free car camping experience. Prioritizing safety measures and choosing accommodation that aligns with COVID-19 guidelines will contribute to a responsible and enjoyable trip.

Safety Precautions for the Drive during Car Camping

When driving to your car camping destination, it’s essential to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable road trip.

1. Wear a Mask and Carry Hand Sanitizer

When going out in public spaces, such as rest stops or gas stations, wear a mask to protect yourself and others. Additionally, carry a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes to maintain proper hand hygiene.

2. Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces

Treat your car like an indoor space by regularly sanitizing high-touch surfaces, such as door knobs, steering wheel, gear shift, and touchscreen displays. Use disinfecting wipes or a cleaning spray with at least 70% alcohol content.

3. Practice Hand Hygiene

Prioritize hand hygiene by using hand sanitizer before getting back inside the car. It’s especially important after visiting public places or touching surfaces that may be contaminated.

4. Be Vigilant at Stops

When making stops on the road, be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid crowded areas and maintain distance from others. Always follow local health guidelines and regulations in the areas you visit.

5. Follow Proper Hand Hygiene

Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds whenever possible. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.

Eating Safely during Car Camping

While car camping, it’s important to prioritize food safety and practice proper handling and hygiene to protect ourselves and others during the COVID-19 pandemic. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience:

1. Wear a Mask and Practice Social Distancing

When visiting grocery stores or picking up takeout meals, wear a mask to minimize the risk of exposure. Maintain a safe distance of at least six feet from others and avoid crowded areas.

2. Opt for Takeout and Avoid Outdoor Dining

If you’re in a coronavirus hotspot, consider opting for takeout meals instead of dining in at restaurants. Takeout allows you to enjoy delicious meals while limiting contact with others and reducing the risk of transmission. Make use of drive-through services at fast food restaurants for quick and convenient meals.

3. Choose Restaurants that Follow COVID-19 Guidelines

Prioritize restaurants that adhere to social distancing protocols and other recommendations outlined in statewide guidelines. Verify that the restaurant takes necessary precautions, such as regular sanitization, staff wearing masks, and providing hand sanitizing stations for customers.

4. Clean Your Mask and Practice Hand Hygiene

After using your mask, clean it properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, sanitize your hands frequently using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

5. Properly Store and Handle Food

Ensure that perishable food items, such as meat, poultry, and dairy products, are stored in a cooler with sufficient ice or refrigerated as soon as possible. Keep raw and cooked food separate to prevent cross-contamination.

6. Use Safe Water for Cooking and Cleaning

If you’re relying on natural water sources for cooking or cleaning, make sure to properly treat the water by boiling it or using water purification tablets. Avoid using untreated water directly from lakes, streams, or rivers.

7. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as countertops, cooking utensils, and picnic tables. Carry disinfecting wipes or a solution of bleach and water to sanitize these surfaces before and after each use.

• Remember to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes, while cooking or eating to reduce the risk of contamination.

“By practicing proper food handling and hygiene, we can enjoy delicious meals while prioritizing our health and the safety of those around us.”

Safety Check-Ins at Your Car Camping Destination

When arriving at your car camping destination, it is crucial to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to ensure a clean and safe environment. By following these safety check-ins, you can minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 during your car camping trip.

Clean high-touch areas

Start by thoroughly cleaning high-touch areas in your hotel room or rental home. Use disinfectant wipes or spray to clean surfaces such as door knobs, light switches, remote controls, and thermostats. Pay special attention to areas that are frequently touched to reduce the risk of transmission.

Avoid indoor attractions

While exploring your car camping destination, it is best to avoid indoor attractions such as museums or crowded indoor spaces. These places may pose a higher risk of transmission due to the close proximity of people. Instead, focus on outdoor activities where social distancing can be maintained more easily.

Clean your cellphone regularly

Remember to regularly clean your cellphone, as it is a frequently touched item that can harbor germs. Use a disinfectant wipe or a cleaning solution specifically designed for electronic devices. Maintaining clean hands and surfaces will contribute to a safer camping experience.

“By following these safety check-ins, you can minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 during your car camping trip.”

By taking these safety precautions at your car camping destination, including cleaning high-touch areas, avoiding indoor attractions, and regularly cleaning your cellphone, you can create a cleaner and safer environment for yourself and your fellow campers. Remember to stay informed about local guidelines and follow any specific safety measures recommended by the campground or rental property to ensure a worry-free camping experience.

Outdoor and Private Car Camping Options

To further minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19, we recommend considering outdoor and private car camping options. These alternatives provide opportunities for a safe and socially distant camping experience. Here are some options for you to explore:

Private Campsites

Discover secluded camping spots away from crowded areas by browsing private campsites on websites like Hipcamp and Campspace. These platforms offer a wide range of private camping options, allowing you to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature while maintaining social distancing.

Self-Guided Rowing Tours

If you’re looking to combine your car camping adventure with a unique outdoor experience, consider self-guided rowing tours. Rent a rowboat or kayak and explore scenic waterways at your own pace. This activity allows you to maintain a safe distance from others while enjoying the serenity of nature.

Llama Rentals for Picnic Hikes

Add an element of excitement and novelty to your car camping trip by renting llamas for picnic hikes. These gentle creatures can carry your supplies and accompany you on hikes, making your outdoor experience truly unforgettable. Plus, llamas make for great companions and offer a fun and safe way to explore the wilderness.

Socially Distant Camping Experiences

Look for campgrounds or camping organizations that offer socially distant camping experiences. These experiences often include designated camping areas with increased spacing between sites, enhanced sanitization protocols, and limited contact with staff or other campers. Be sure to research and choose options that align with your comfort level and safety preferences.

Remember, outdoor and private car camping options provide a safe alternative in these challenging times. By exploring secluded campsites, engaging in unique outdoor activities, and embracing socially distant camping experiences, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while minimizing contact with others and reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Continue reading our article for more valuable information and tips on car camping in the COVID-19 era. Stay safe and make the most out of your outdoor adventures!

Car Camping in the COVID-19 Era: Embracing a New Normal

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed the way we approach car camping, but it doesn’t mean we have to give up on this beloved outdoor activity. Instead, let’s embrace the new normal by adapting our car camping adventures to the COVID-19 guidelines and prioritizing safety.

By following the health and safety guidelines outlined in this article, we can still have a safe and enjoyable car camping experience during these unprecedented times. Remember to pack essential items such as hand sanitizer, face masks, and disinfecting wipes to maintain proper hygiene. Choose a safe destination and research the COVID-19 guidelines in the areas you plan to visit.

When booking lodging, prioritize establishments that follow safety measures and consider advance payment options to minimize in-person transactions. During the drive, take safety precautions by wearing masks, sanitizing high-touch surfaces, and practicing proper hand hygiene. And when at your car camping destination, be sure to clean and sanitize your living space, avoiding crowded indoor attractions.

In this new normal, we can still enjoy the wonders of nature and the freedom of the open road. With a little adaptation and adherence to the necessary safety precautions, car camping can continue to bring us joy, relaxation, and a sense of adventure. So let’s make the most of this new normal and create unforgettable memories on our car camping trips, all while keeping ourselves and others safe.

FAQ

What are some essential items to pack for car camping during COVID-19?

Some essential items to pack for car camping during COVID-19 include hand sanitizer, face masks, disinfecting wipes, paper lunch bags, thermometer, disposable latex gloves, hand soap, extra doses of medication, and health insurance cards.

How can I choose a safe destination and route for car camping during the pandemic?

Research the COVID-19 guidelines and travel restrictions for the areas you plan to visit. Check the websites of the cities and counties you plan to visit for any coronavirus hotspots. Consult the AAA’s COVID-19 Travel Restriction map for information on travel restrictions in the places you plan to visit.

What safety precautions should I take when booking lodging for car camping?

Prioritize safety by researching the COVID-19 guidelines for hotels and lodging in the areas you plan to stay. Contact the hotels ahead of time to ensure they are open and ask about their sanitizing measures and coronavirus guidelines. Pay for your lodging in advance to avoid in-person transactions, if possible, and see if online check-in is available.

What safety precautions should I take during the drive to my car camping destination?

Take safety precautions by wearing a mask when going out in public and carrying hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes. Treat your car like an indoor space by sanitizing high-touch surfaces and using hand sanitizer before getting back inside. Be vigilant when making stops, avoid crowded areas, and practice proper hand hygiene.

How can I eat safely during car camping?

Wear a mask when going to the grocery store or picking up takeout. Consider avoiding outdoor dining in coronavirus hotspots and opt for takeout instead. Use fast food drive-throughs for quick meals and ensure that restaurants you plan to dine in follow social distancing protocols and other recommendations outlined in the statewide guidelines.

What safety precautions should I take at my car camping destination?

Clean high-touch areas in your hotel room or rental home, avoid indoor attractions that may pose higher risks of transmission, and regularly clean your cellphone. By following these safety check-ins, you can minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 during your car camping trip.

What are some outdoor and private car camping options?

Explore private campsites on websites like Hipcamp and Campspace, where you can find secluded camping spots away from crowded areas. Additionally, consider self-guided rowing tours, llama rentals for picnic hikes, and socially distant camping experiences.

How can I adapt car camping to the COVID-19 guidelines?

Embrace the new normal by adapting car camping to the COVID-19 guidelines and taking necessary safety precautions. By following the health and safety guidelines, you can still have a safe and enjoyable car camping experience during these unprecedented times.