Whether you're traveling for business or a family emergency, taking a flight and staying in a hotel during the COVID-19 pandemic require some extra precautions to stay healthy. While practicing social distancing and avoiding large gatherings will keep you safe, packing the right items in your suitcase will help you prepare for the trip. Use this guide to get started and enjoy a stress-free trip. 

What to Pack When Traveling During the Coronavirus Pandemic

1. Masks

Pack three to five washable masks that fully cover the nose and mouth. You’ll need them to board the plane, train, or bus and to enter restaurants, assorted attractions, and common hotel areas. Bring a travel-size bottle of laundry detergent for washing your masks in your room’s sink, as dirty coverings can accumulate makeup, sweat, and bacteria that clog pores. 

2. Hand Sanitizer

Maintaining germ-free hands when you’re in public and don’t have access to a sink and antibacterial soap can be challenging. Thankfully, bringing three or four 3.4-ounce hand sanitizer bottles will help you disinfect regularly. These containers easily fit into carry-on luggage. The TSA has recently allowed 12-ounce bottles on board to keep passengers safe.

Apply sanitizer after touching often-used surfaces such as doorknobs or before eating. You’ll also want to pack travel-size disinfectant wipes that kill the virus on assorted surfaces like airplane trays and hotel desks.

3. Smartphone Sanitizer

Invest in a smartphone sanitizer to keep your device clean and germ-free. Traveling generally requires using a phone often, whether you're looking for nearby restaurants, calling the hotel with questions, or posting your latest photos on social media. Smartphone sanitizers kill germs with UV rays to help you stay healthy. 

4. Contactless Credit Card

Switch to a contactless credit card if you haven’t already. It allows you to pay with a single tap on a credit card machine instead of handing the payment method to the clerk and collecting germs. Many restaurants, rest stops, and stores want customers to pay with contactless options to minimize the spread of viruses and bacteria. 

For a clean and relaxing experience in Carlsbad, NM, stay at Stevens Inn. Offering upscale amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast, this charming inn is conveniently located near the famous Carlsbad Caverns National Park and other attractions. Their friendly staff will help you stay safe while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call (575) 887-2851 to make a reservation, or visit the website to see the latest special offers.