Get Outside With the Family Safely: Travel and Fun in the Age of COVID-19
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There are many ways to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doing so doesn't mean just sitting on your couch watching movies or playing video games. It's possible to get outside and have fun with your immediate family during this year's school breaks and holidays. Take a look at these ideas from One Messy Bun on how to do just that.
Backyard Fun
Your backyard is the perfect place to have fun at home if you don't want to (or can't) travel. Consider investing in outdoor play equipment the whole family can enjoy. For example, a trampoline or swing set keeps kids active, nets for volleyball or badminton are inexpensive ways to have fun, and if you have the room, an above-ground pool can keep everyone cool.
Even eating your meals outside can make holidays seem exciting. A picnic bench or folding card table is all you need to eat outside. You can even cook outside using a grill for a faux camping experience.
Backyard Safety
If you want to spend more time outdoors during this year's holidays, make sure your yard is safe. Installing a new fence or upgrading the fence you have is a great place to start. When looking for someone to install your fence, search Angi for “fence installation near me.” Reading reviews online can help you choose the best contractors in your area. Before hiring, verify the fence installer is licensed and insured. Also, ensure they'll check for underground utility lines before digging.
A new fence can cost the average family $4,500, so it's a significant investment. However, fences provide many benefits, including security, privacy, boosted property values, and aesthetics. The exact cost of a new fence for your yard will depend on the chosen materials, the size of the fence, and where it's installed.
Road Trips
It's possible to safely take a road trip during the COVID-19 pandemic, but additional research is required. Try to travel to uncrowded locations to allow for social distancing, and remain outdoors whenever you can. Remember to check current case numbers in an area before picking a destination. You'll want to avoid COVID-19 hotspots.
Camping, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing are engaging activities to look into. Visiting lesser-known historical landmarks is also a great idea. For example, the New Jersey Pine Barrens features several preserved or semi-preserved historical villages. Not only do these interesting villages offer a look into history, but it's possible to social distance while visiting. Most states have similar attractions. Other examples include the rafting and river rides families can enjoy in New Braunfels, Texas.
Traveling during the pandemic means you want to be extra prepared. Remember to bring hand sanitizer, plenty of masks, and disinfecting wipes. In addition, it may be a good idea to pack your lunch in a cooler and have a picnic on your trip instead of eating in a new restaurant. Consider picking up a wireless charger for your phone to keep it charged in case of an emergency. Many wireless chargers even work for children's tablets.
Have Fun Safely During This Year's Holidays
Staying safe during the pandemic doesn't mean sitting inside all day binge-watching TV and filming videos for social media. You can spend more time outdoors or even take road trips during this year's holidays by following all local health recommendations and doing a little extra research.
Gwen Payne is a valued contributor to our OMB Blog. Please visit her website InvisibleMoms.com where you can find more great content.
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