Long-distance travel is a part of this time of the year, and even though the world hasn't returned to normal, the economy has reopened to a great degree in most places. Some nations are still locking down in response to new variants, and a few are even turning into police states despite what true science is saying about the risks of the virus and its mutations.

Restrictions and mandates are making it difficult or even impossible for non-vaccinated to visit some places, but traveling and vacationing are returning.

With this travel though, how do you stay prepared on the road? How does prepping and long-distance travel mesh? Let's take a closer look…

What's practical vs. What's possible.

I've been advising for staying as close to our roots and resources as much as possible, until things clear up. This might still take a considerable time if we think objectively and analyze the situation. Everywhere things are both volatile and unstable enough to warrant caution and restrain. We must be patient and watchful, and save our resources.

But I acknowledge staying grounded isn't practical or even possible for many of us. Some people must engage in long-distance travel for work, for treatment, to see and assist friends and relatives, or even to clean up mentally. Some people think the situation is already good and "normal" enough to warrant the resumption of vacation traveling, and for those who believe that, it's fine too. Who are we to judge?

Time doesn't stop.

Above all, life goes on. It's important to keep investing in staying prepared, but it's equally important to try and live as normally as the situation allows. If things loosen up, fine. If things crash down, we must be ready. Adjusting sails is critical. This up-and-down, close-and-open cycle may keep happening for some time. So, we might as well enjoy life as much as we can while we still can.

I try to strike a balance here, so no straying too far from home but also not locking down on base. I still keep visiting my parents in the interior of the country. It's a relatively short car trip, but I can also do it by bike or motorcycle, or even by foot if I'm in the mood for a multiple-day bug-out simulation trip.

Anyway, I don't know for how long I'll be around (or they), and I want to spend time together as much as possible. I also keep trekking and camping whenever I can. It's nothing fancy or expensive and keeps me sane and fit, so it's OK.