YOUR HOME AWAY 
As of May 1, 2020, approximately 1.1 million Americans had confirmed cases of coronavirus.
Many government officials suggest you shelter in place until the illness disappears. At the same time, at least some people end up forced to travel. Staying in hotels, pumping gas, boarding a plane — everything that’s routine is different now that you have a virus to consider.
The good news is, you can take steps to safeguard your and your family’s health during this time. Here’s how to protect yourself while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
You already know how to pack your suitcase for a long trip. Now, though, you have to think about more than outfits and toiletries — you need sanitation supplies, too. These things are in short enough supply you usually can’t assume they’ll be available where you’re going.
Before you check into your hotel or hop on public transport, make sure you have sanitizing wipes on hand. Brands such as Lysol and Clorox have all the germ-killing ingredients you need.
Keep in mind that the coronavirus can live on hard surfaces for up to three days. So, having these wipes on hand can ensure you eradicate the risk of getting sick, no matter where you travel.
Your cleaning supply kit should include hand sanitizer, too. The CDC recommends washing your hands often. If you can’t get to a sink, an alcohol-based sanitizer can do the trick.
Just make sure to use a variety that’s at least 60 percent alcohol. Otherwise, the formula won’t be strong enough to break down the virus.
Hotels take care to make each room feel cozy — and that’s why many people prefer them to short-term rentals while traveling.
However, some of the linens in your room might be carrying germs from the previous guest. The bed sheets, pillowcases, and comforter will always be freshly changed. However, throw pillows and decorative blankets may not be.
This fix is an easy one. Simply shake these accessories from the bed, wash your hands and leave them where they lay until it’s time to go.
You’ve probably heard by now that the CDC recommends you wear a mask when you leave your house. This tip is especially crucial if you plan to travel during the coronavirus epidemic.
Indeed, the CDC says that social distancing — keeping a distance of at least six feet between yourself and those outside of your household — remains the most vital step in preventing viral spread.
However, cloth masks can stall the spread, too, especially from those who do not know they’re carrying the virus. It also stands as an extra layer between you and the particles that could get you sick.
You and your family should all wear masks as you travel through train stations or airports. Make sure everyone puts theirs on and leaves it alone — touching it could transfer any trapped coronavirus particles.
If you have to go through a TSA checkpoint, they will require you to remove your mask to show your face. Grab it by the elastics around your ears to avoid transferring any trapped germs.
You have an upcoming flight, but you have a problem — your driver’s license has expired while you’re in quarantine. Luckily for you, TSA has bent its rules amid the epidemic.
Any state-issued identification that expired on or after March 1, 2020, will still be valid at the airport. So, skip the DMV — and the germs — in favor of your good health.
We’ve already touched on the fact that you should have cleaning supplies with you as you travel. But you should also know how to use them.
After you board the plane, take out your wipes and scour the tray table, TV screen, remote, and armrests. Bring a wipe with you to the lavatory to wipe down the counter and sink before use, too.
In your hotel room, the job will be more involved. You’ll want to sanitize hard surfaces in the bedroom and bathroom areas. Don’t forget the small things, such as the doorknobs and thermostat.
You can either wipe down the TV remote or throw it into a plastic bag, then use it.
Normally, you’d check into a hotel room and drink out of the glasses they give you. Or, you’d happily grab a cup from the flight attendant and sip during your flight.
Now, though, you have to avoid touching hard surfaces that others have had their hands on. Your best bet is to bring a reusable water bottle and refill it yourself until you reach your destination.
You’re better off packing your own food, too. Bring enough snacks and meals to get you through your road trip or flight. The less you interact with other people, the better — and, if you prep your meals beforehand, you don’t have to shop for and buy them.
You’ve heard this tip time and time again but it bears repeating if you plan to travel. Wash your hands often, especially when you’re in and out of public spaces.
Experts recommend a 20-second hand-washing session to kill off lingering germs. Until you wash your hands, avoid touching your face. Otherwise, you could unwittingly transfer the coronavirus into your body.
And, if you can’t find soap and water for a proper hand-washing, whip out the antibacterial gel. Spend the same 20 seconds rubbing it into your hands, between your fingers and around your wrists, too.
The best tip of all? Travel only if you have to during these unprecedented times.
But if you have to go on the road, now you know how to protect yourself. If you need more tips to make your hotel stay as clean and comfortable as possible, check out our blog.