2020 and 2021 have presented some challenges when it comes to family vacations. We all want to be safe and still want to enjoy our time with family and friends. In these uncertain times, we need to be sure our kids are safe when coming in contact with others.
So, how can we take a vacation that is without worry and stress for us, our children, and those around us?
Not to worry, there are some great options for safe and kid-friendly vacations for 2021. Let’s explore some ideas that can finally get us out of the house confidently and still have fun.
Camping
You don’t have to be a seasoned tent pitcher to enjoy a couple of nights under the stars. Camping is an excellent way to bring the family together. It is affordable, fun, and doesn’t have to be hard work.
There are many campgrounds that have tent sites and even some that have cabins or yurts for more of a glamping experience. Most campsites are spaced at a recommended social distance away from neighboring sites.
You will find that most campsites have grills or fire pits, picnic tables, and level ground for pitching a tent. While other sites have rustic accommodations where you can sleep in a bunk inside. Campgrounds also offer bathroom facilities.
The best part is that you probably don’t have to go far from home and don’t need to get on a plane. I recommend checking out your local state-run parks for campsites and their amenities. Also, there are camping gear companies that will rent everything you need, from tents and sleeping bags to stoves and cooking equipment. Many of these vendors ship to you directly. All you have to do is ship everything back.
There are a few precautions that are recommended to keep everyone safe. First, the bathrooms are communal, so bring face masks, hand sanitizer, and antibacterial wipes. Wipe down shared surfaces, like faucets and toilet seats, before touching them.
You will have to make a reservation, which is easy enough to do online or over the phone.
House Rental
This is the perfect time to set up house in a vacation rental where you don’t share space with other families. The vacation rental market is at an all-time high right now with so many options, from cottages and apartments to sprawling homes. The best way to search for a home to rent is through sites like VRBO, FindHomeAway, and Airbnb. Many popular vacation spots will also have properties managed by real estate agents that you can tap into.
The benefits of a home rental are many. They are generally in or near vacation destination spots, such as beach towns and mountain resorts. As well, they have living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and often outdoor space to enjoy.
While house rentals are not your least expensive option, they do offer the safest environments for guests. You aren’t sharing lobbies, elevators, or pools with any other family. And, most rental companies require their hosts to follow five-step COVID cleaning protocols between guest stays. Hosts are also required to wear masks during any interaction with guests.
Even with this in mind, I recommend you bring disinfecting wipes and give high-touch surfaces a good wipe upon arrival, such as countertops, faucets and handles, light switches, doorknobs, and TV remotes. If you are extra cautious, run the dishes, glassware, and utensils through the dishwasher.
RV Parks
You can have the best of both worlds by renting an RV. An RV offers a home that is both safe from others and from the elements. RVs are comfortable and versatile. Renting an RV will generally cost less than renting a home but more than a tent campsite.
RVs have become increasingly popular during the pandemic. The appeal is that you are bringing your living room, kitchen, and sleeping areas with you and don’t have to have any interaction with other people if that is what you choose. As well, you can pretty much go anywhere, as long as you book a parking site in advance.
RV parks are pretty nice these days with electrical and sanitary hookups, mini-markets for groceries and supplies, Wi-Fi, and play areas for the kids. You do have to book well in advance. This can be done through sites such as KOA or Outdoorsy.