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Packing List for Traveling with Your Senior During COVID

Make sure these extra essentials make it into your loved one’s suitcase.

 

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Traveling with loved ones should be a fun experience. But this year and into 2021, travel safety is bound to look and function a lot differently. COVID has added quite a few things to the packing list, whether you’re flying or driving.

 

As you’re preparing to leave town, make sure you stock up on the items on this list that can help reduce your senior’s exposure to COVID and provide both of you with greater peace of mind:

 

Face Masks

 

Face masks are required in many places, including aboard airplanes and as you’re walking through airports. In other places, they may not be required but are still highly encouraged by the CDC. Regulations can vary from state to state, so it’s best to be prepared with a few face masks for the trip. If you won’t have a way to wash your reusable face mask frequently during your trip, pack a couple of packs of disposable face masks. This will help you avoid reusing dirty masks and keep potential cross-contamination to a minimum.

 

Hand Sanitizer

 

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Hand sanitizer is no substitute for handwashing. But for the times when a sink and hand soap aren’t nearby, a little hand sanitizer is better than nothing. If you’re flying, opt for small bottles (3 oz or less) so you can get them through airport security without a problem.

 

Hand Soap

 

You can’t always count on public restrooms having soap. Think of all the restrooms you’ve been in that were in dire need of restocking! It’s a good idea to pack a bar or bottle of hand soap and carry it with you in the event a restroom is out of soap.

 

Disinfectant Wipes

 

Having a travel pack of disinfectant wipes is a must on your COVID travel list. Many travelers mention using them to wipe down surfaces in their hotel rooms. If you’re driving, you can use them on your steering wheel and door handles. If you’re flying, use them to disinfect your seat and table tray before getting settled.

 

List of Medications

 

Take care to make a list of medications your senior loved one is taking. If they become ill and need medical care while traveling, their providers will need to know their medications to avoid potential adverse reactions.

 

Their Doctor’s Phone Number

 

If your senior loved one were to become ill while traveling, it’s a good idea to have their doctor’s number on hand. You can call their doctor to explain their symptoms and see if they need to go to a local urgent care or emergency room or if they can take something over-the-counter to help with symptoms.

 

COVID Test Results (If Applicable)

 

If your loved one took a COVID test before traveling, take a copy of their test results with you. Some flights are starting to require proof of a negative COVID test before takeoff.

 

Traveling During COVID: Final Thoughts

 

With COVID cases rising across the country, medical experts are suggesting limiting your travel as much as possible. However, if you do have to travel with a senior loved one, the above items can help to mitigate their risk of exposure. You can never be too careful.

 

Sources:

https://blog.headout.com/post-covid-travel-packing-checklist/

https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/covid-19-testing.jsp