Folks who are starting to feel that telltale chill in the air might feel a little extra motivation to take a trip in autumn this year. Outdoor activities are still the safest during the pandemic, and in many parts of the country, winter weather is going to limit those outdoor options very soon.
Here are some ideas for enjoying the great outdoors and staying safe inside this fall.
Take in the colors.
Daytrips are still among the safest pandemic activities. Somewhere within an hour or two of your home there’s a park or forest preserve where your family can walk, run, play games, eat a picnic, and snap some Instagram-ready photos of autumn foliage. If you map your route ahead of time, you’ll also be able to plan bathroom breaks for the kids and other meal options.
Pick apples or pumpkins.
Although public health experts tell us that outdoor activities are less likely to spread Covid-19 than indoor ones, it’s still not a great idea to bunch together with people outside of your household bubble. That’s why many orchards, and farms have started offering reservations and one-way paths through their facilities. Show up at your allotted time, wheelbarrow your way through apple trees and pumpkin patches, and load your haul into the car at the end.
Book a cottage.
For longer getaways, consider renting a house that’s adjacent to outdoor activities like fishing or hiking. A well-cleaned holiday home for just you and your family is much safer than sharing indoor space at a hotel. If there are other rental homes available nearby you might be able to sit around a campfire with friends and family.
Stay safe while using public transportation.
Depending on where you live and your personal situation, you might feel that public transportation is safe, or your only viable option. Please remember that indoor spaces like airports, trains, and bus stations are going to bring you into contact with people who may be travelling from outside your area. Social distance as best you can and avoid particularly crowded areas like cafes and restaurants. Try to limit your contact with surfaces like chairs, countertops, and railings. Wear a mask and bring disinfectant wipes or spray.
Wherever you and your family travel we hope you find safe ways to make autumn memorable this year. And if you’re already looking ahead to (hopefully) a more adventurous 2021, let’s schedule an end-of-the-year call and see how we can work some extra holiday time into next year’s financial plan.