How to reduce risk while traveling during pandemic

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — With more cities slowly reopening, people are also starting to travel again.

In the midst of a pandemic, traveling can be risky.

It's easy to be carefree when traveling but safety still needs to be a priority.

"Wear a cloth mask if you're in situation where it's practical and can't socially distance," said Dr. David Aronoff, director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

If you can, travel with your own sanitizing wipes so you can clean armrests and other frequent touch points.

In most cases, you can check into your flight on your phone or computer to reduce face-to-face contact.

"It's important to stack as many cards as you can in your favor," said Dr. Aronoff. "So keeping travel time to a minimum lowers your risk than longer duration hauls."

Your best bet is driving alone to your destination. If you are road tripping with friends wear a mask and increase air flow.

"If the weather is good enough, have the windows open, consider turning on the air condition to have good ventilation," Dr. Aronoff said.

Once you do get to your vacation spot, practice social distancing. Do not engage in any large gatherings.

While it's ultimately up to you to decide if the trip is worth the risk, those who are elderly or have any underlying health conditions should strongly think about not traveling this summer.