Socially distanced travel across the United States in 2020 was not as complicated as I imagined. Car camping provided unique opportunities that were otherwise a no-no during the 2020 Pandemic. Every corner of the US is observing the mask recommendation and the majority of restaurants are take-out only. Hand sanitizer is on every counter top and most people minded their distance.

I've always dreamed of driving across the United States. To me, a cross-country trip has always had a kind of mystique about it. I've envied people who had the resources to make it happen and have always had an eye for small town destinations. Well to say this trip almost didn't happen numerous times is an understatement. In my mind, I have planned this trip a hundred times over. Well 2020 was it. I scheduled my time off from work (2 weeks together). Even up until two weeks prior, the trip almost didn't happen a few times. Let's see, Covid-19, losing my travel partner, possible additional 2 week quarantine upon return, cancelled flights with no refund, forest fires, civil unrest in many cities, etc., etc. I decided to just try it, knowing I could always turn around if things went awry. And that's how it happened. I just decided to do it.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Chicago skyline from Indiana Dunes