Is it safe to book a stay in a hotel, cabin, or rental home right now?

After months of quarantine, millions of Americans are eager to travel—whether it's for a quick overnight stay, a weekend retreat, or a summer vacation. With many states reopening, travel is once again an option, though with precautions. Before the pandemic, few questioned the safety of staying in a hotel, cabin, or vacation rental. But now, the possibility of coronavirus exposure must be factored in. Even if you're comfortable with the travel risks to get to your destination—whether by plane, train, or car—what about the safety of the place you're heading to?

We are both exposure experts. One of us feels comfortable booking a stay with minimal contact, while the other remains hesitant about taking a trip just yet. However, we both agree on one thing: Traveling in today's world comes with heightened risk, though there are steps you can take to reduce that risk.

The Challenges

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have made it clear that travel increases your chances of contracting or spreading COVID-19. The travel industry is taking these concerns seriously. Both the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the Vacation Rental Management Association have put forth best practices and guidelines to follow.

Regardless of the type of accommodation you're considering, the main concern is the risk of coming into close contact (within six feet) with someone who has been infected. This risk increases when you travel. Remember, someone infected with Covid-19 can spread the virus before showing any symptoms. From the outset, you must assume that anyone around you, including yourself, could be carrying the virus.

Contact with contaminated surfaces is not as significant a concern, though it's still worth considering. While we're still learning about the potential for infections from surfaces, we do know that coronavirus has been found on guest room surfaces. Limit your contact with surfaces like tabletops, chairs, bathroom sinks, and duvet covers that may not have been properly cleaned or disinfected.

Another challenge: The spread of Covid-19 can differ across communities, even within the same area. Laws and public health guidelines also vary, so be sure to check for the latest updates before you travel.

Before you make a reservation

While it's impossible to guarantee a 100% safe stay, there are certainly steps you can take to reduce risks. Keep in mind that each accommodation type is different; for example, campgrounds typically offer shared bathrooms, unlike hotels or rental homes. Regardless of where you're staying, it's a good idea to visit the property's website or call directly to inquire about what measures are in place to minimize transmission risks.

Be sure to ask about the following:

Air quality. Regular cleaning with approved disinfectants should be standard. Ask if hand-washing stations or hand sanitizers are provided in common areas. Engineering measures such as increased air circulation or HEPA filters in the HVAC system are ideal. If these aren't available, consider bringing your own portable air purifier with a HEPA filter. On the simpler side, ask if windows can be opened for better airflow. Using a fan near an open window can help bring in fresh air and improve ventilation.

No-contact options, such as digital key cards or mobile check-ins, should be available where possible.

Guest and staff health protocols, including mask requirements and screenings.

Is the rental property limiting occupancy to allow for better social distancing? For instance, are they booking every other room? Are they avoiding one-night stays, which would increase guest turnover and potentially raise risk? It's also a good idea to stay away from accommodations with same-day turnovers.

Tips for a safer stay

Once you've confirmed the management is taking all necessary precautions, it's time for you to do your part to reduce exposure. Always wear a face mask and practice social distancing in public areas. Limit your time in confined, poorly ventilated spaces like elevators. Avoid touching high-contact surfaces, such as elevator buttons, door handles, or dining furniture, as these are less likely to be cleaned between guests. Be sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after spending time in shared spaces. If the gym or pool is open, continue to maintain social distance, wear your mask, and sanitize equipment before and after use.

Use plastic zip bags to store personal items that others might touch, such as your driver’s license, credit card, and key. Bring extra bags to store these items after disinfecting them. Handle your own luggage or arrange for no-contact delivery to minimize exposure.

Disinfect surfaces according to CDC recommendations. If housekeeping services are available, consider opting out. You may also request that decorative pillows and duvet covers be removed before your arrival to minimize potential exposure.

For the lowest-risk dining options, consider bringing your own meals, ordering room service, or opting for no-contact delivery. Outdoor dining is generally safer, but if you do choose to dine indoors, ensure that there's proper ventilation and tables are adequately spaced.

Make sure you pack enough masks or face coverings for each day of your stay, or bring detergent to wash them between uses. Don't forget hand sanitizer or wipes, a surface disinfectant, paper towels, and disposable disinfectant wipes.

While these measures will help, keep in mind that no precaution can entirely eliminate the risk of contracting the virus. The reality is, we don't recommend jumping into nonessential travel just yet. You may feel like you need a vacation, but remember: Covid-19 doesn't take a break.