Thanksgiving is often a time for family, food, and fun — but for many of us, it’s also a time of travel. Whether you’re heading to a nearby city or flying across the country to reunite with loved ones, it’s important to prioritize safety while you’re on the road.
In 2025, COVID-19 still poses a risk, especially in high-transmission areas. So, while your plans might look a little different from pre-pandemic holidays, you can still have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving with a few precautions in place.
Let’s take a closer look at how to stay safe while traveling during Thanksgiving this year.
Understand the Current COVID Situation
The first step in staying safe is understanding where you’re going and what the COVID situation is like in both your departure area and your destination. The US COVID map can help you with this. You should also keep an eye on local health advisories as you approach your travel date. COVID case rates can vary greatly from state to state, county to county, and even city to city.
Here’s what to look for:
- Transmission Levels: High-transmission areas may require additional precautions, like masking and testing.
- Hospital Capacity: Areas with overwhelmed hospitals might be harder to navigate if you need medical assistance.
- Testing Availability: Some areas may require COVID testing before travel or entry, so check ahead to ensure that testing locations are available.
By understanding the landscape, you can prepare yourself for the trip and ensure that you’re taking the necessary steps to protect yourself and others.
Prepare for Your Trip: What to Pack
When you’re preparing for travel, it’s more than just about packing clothes and snacks. In 2025, you’ll want to be extra mindful about what you bring along to help minimize exposure to COVID and other germs. Here’s a checklist of essentials:
- Masks: Even if you’re vaccinated, wearing a mask in crowded places — like airports, public transit, and indoor gatherings — is still a smart move.
- Hand Sanitizer: Pack a travel-sized bottle for when soap and water aren’t available. It’s always a good idea to clean your hands after touching surfaces that others might have touched.
- Disinfectant Wipes: Use these to wipe down high-touch areas in your seat area (e.g., armrests, tray tables, and seat belts) on the plane, bus, or train.
- COVID-19 Test Kits: Especially if you’re visiting high-risk individuals or traveling to areas with high transmission rates, it’s a good idea to have a test kit handy. Some people even test before departure and again after arrival, just to be cautious.
- Vaccination Records: Keep a copy of your vaccination card with you in case you’re asked to show proof, especially in certain travel scenarios or for specific accommodations.
Packing these items will help you feel more in control of the situation and ensure you’re prepared for anything that comes your way.
During Your Trip: Stay Safe and Stay Smart
The journey itself can be just as important as the destination when it comes to staying safe. Whether you’re flying or driving, you need to think about safety along every step of your trip.
If You’re Flying:
- Masks are Still Recommended: Though mask mandates may vary, wearing a mask in the airport and on the plane helps reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: Pack your own to avoid having to stop at crowded convenience stores or restaurants during your trip.
- Limit Touching: Use contactless payment whenever possible, whether for gas, food, or any other transactions.
If You’re Road Tripping:
- Avoid Crowded Pit Stops: Try to minimize the number of rest stops you make, especially in crowded places. If you do stop, keep your time inside to a minimum.
- Disinfect Your Car: If you’re sharing a car with others, keep disinfectant wipes on hand to clean commonly touched surfaces (door handles, seat belts, etc.).
- Social Distancing: Maintain distance from others when you stop for fuel or food. Opt for drive-thru or takeout to limit your exposure.
These simple tips can go a long way in reducing your exposure to germs, including COVID.
If You’re Visiting Family or Friends: Take Extra Precautions
Visiting loved ones is one of the most heartwarming aspects of Thanksgiving, but it’s also when we need to be most mindful. Many families include elderly members or individuals with underlying health conditions who may be at a higher risk for complications from COVID.
Here are a few ways to make your visit safer for everyone:
- Test Before You Go: Even if you don’t have symptoms, testing before you travel can provide peace of mind and reduce the chances of unknowingly bringing COVID with you.
- Stay Outdoors if Possible: If weather permits, consider hosting gatherings outside where the air circulation reduces the risk of airborne transmission.
- Consider Virtual Gatherings: If the COVID risk is too high in your area or your family members are immunocompromised, it might be safer to host a virtual Thanksgiving dinner this year.
Don’t forget: Thanksgiving is about being together, and you can still enjoy the season while taking the necessary steps to protect your loved ones.
Stay Informed During Your Trip
The situation with COVID can change quickly. While you might feel comfortable traveling to your destination based on the current COVID levels, it’s important to stay informed throughout your trip.
- Monitor Local Updates: Check for any new local guidelines or restrictions as you travel. Some regions may implement mask mandates, capacity restrictions, or other rules at the last minute.
- Adjust if Needed: If the situation changes dramatically while you’re on the road (e.g., if there’s a sudden outbreak), be prepared to make adjustments. This could mean shortening your visit, avoiding crowded spaces, or even postponing your trip.
Staying flexible and informed will help you stay one step ahead and ensure your safety.
Final Thoughts
Traveling during Thanksgiving 2025 doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a little preparation, vigilance, and flexibility, you can enjoy the holiday season safely. From checking the COVID map before you leave to packing the right gear and following health guidelines along the way, staying proactive will help you stay safe and enjoy your time with family and friends.
By taking a few extra steps, you can navigate the holiday season with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve made informed decisions to protect yourself and those around you.
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