These days, you can't get any traveling done for your rest, relaxation, and recreation. Since we're still under the COVID-19 health crisis and the General Community Quarantine, we can only dream of places we want to visit.

For most of us, the "traveling" we do is a trip to the nearby grocery or supermarket to replenish our home supplies. At least we get to see other people and check out the latest product offerings. Going out to buy things is still considered as a form of travel. Here are ways to make your supermarket trip fun and safe at the same time.

Before grocery shopping:

1. Make a list of the essential items you need to buy. From cleaning items to on-hand snacks, you should check what your household needs, to avoid unnecessary expenses and purchases.

2. Minimize the grocery shopping to once a week or every other week. Designate one person to do the shopping, preferably an individual who is not immunocompromised. Best time for grocery would be the in-between hours; not too early in the morning, and not too late close to night time. Know the best schedule that works for you.

3. Prepare what you need before going out: face mask, face shield, your quarantine pass (depending on the rules in your barangay), enough cash, mobile phone, and portable alcohol.

Do I really need to wear gloves? You can skip it, since it will make you prone to cross-contamination. The gloves can protect you, but if you hold your phone while wearing gloves, it's useless. It's best to wash your hands before going out, rub your hands with alcohol after leaving, and when you get home, wash your hands again.

At the grocery:

1. Limit the surfaces, aisles, and items you touch. Only pick the items you're sure of buying.

2. Shop quickly, and avoid unnecessary window-shopping or checking out bins and racks. This ensures you that you can line up earlier at the cashier and leave.

3. Check to see if your items covered your shopping list. Line up for the cashier, pay, and then off you go.

After coming from the grocery:

1. Disinfect the items you got, you don't have to drench everything with alcohol. For food items, canned goods, and toiletries, you can lightly spritz some alcohol on it and then wipe it with a cloth.

2, Wash your hands and get changed quickly. Don't forget to hydrate yourself and drink water.

These grocery shopping travel tips can help make your shopping schedule a worthwhile one. As always, observe social distancing, and stay safe.