COVID Safe Activities: Fun and Secure Things to Do During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed how we approach daily activities, social gatherings, and recreational pursuits. While staying safe remains a priority, it’s equally important to maintain your mental health, physical fitness, and social connections through engaging activities.

Finding the right balance between safety and enjoyment doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper planning and understanding of risk levels, you can participate in numerous activities that bring joy and normalcy to your life while minimizing exposure to the coronavirus.

This comprehensive guide explores various COVID safe activities across different risk categories, helping you make informed decisions about how to spend your time safely and enjoyably.

Understanding COVID-19 Transmission and Risk Levels

Before diving into specific activities, it’s essential to understand how COVID-19 spreads and what factors influence your risk of exposure.

The virus primarily transmits through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. These droplets can be inhaled by people nearby or land on surfaces that others may touch.

Several factors determine the risk level of any activity:

• Ventilation: Indoor spaces with poor airflow pose higher risks than well-ventilated areas or outdoor spaces
• Proximity: Close contact with others increases transmission risk
• Duration: Longer exposure times elevate your chances of infection
• Crowd size: Larger gatherings increase the likelihood of encountering infected individuals
• Vaccination status: Being up to date with vaccines significantly reduces severe illness risk
• Local transmission rates: Higher community spread means greater exposure probability

Low-Risk Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities generally present the lowest risk because fresh air constantly circulates, dispersing viral particles and reducing concentration levels. These activities allow you to stay active and engaged while minimizing COVID-19 exposure.

Individual and Small Group Exercise

Physical activity is crucial for both physical and mental health. Fortunately, many exercise options carry minimal risk:

• Walking and jogging: Explore your neighborhood, local trails, or parks while maintaining distance from others
• Cycling: Ride solo or with household members on bike paths or quiet roads
• Hiking: Visit nature trails during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
• Outdoor yoga: Practice in your backyard or at a park with adequate spacing
• Gardening: Tend to plants in your yard or participate in community gardens with proper distancing
• Running: Early morning or evening runs typically involve fewer people

Nature-Based Activities

Connecting with nature offers therapeutic benefits while keeping you safe:

• Birdwatching: Observe wildlife in natural habitats from a safe distance
• Photography: Capture landscapes, nature, or urban scenes outdoors
• Fishing: Cast a line at lakes, rivers, or coastal areas with minimal contact with others
• Camping: Pitch a tent at spacious campgrounds or in your backyard
• Stargazing: Enjoy the night sky from open areas away from crowds

Winter and Cold-Weather Activities

Don’t let colder months limit your outdoor enjoyment:

• Skiing and snowboarding: Choose less crowded resorts and times; wear masks on lifts
• Sledding: Find local hills with ample space for distancing
• Ice skating: Visit outdoor rinks during off-peak hours
• Snowshoeing: Explore winter trails with minimal human contact
• Winter hiking: Enjoy peaceful trails with proper cold-weather gear

Low to Moderate-Risk Activities

Some activities involve slightly more risk but can still be enjoyed safely with appropriate precautions.

Outdoor Social Gatherings

Maintaining social connections is vital for mental wellbeing. Consider these safer socializing options:

• Backyard gatherings: Host small groups outdoors with ample space between guests
• Picnics: Meet friends at parks with physical distancing
• Outdoor dining: Choose restaurants with spacious patios and well-separated tables
• Driveway visits: Chat with neighbors while maintaining distance
• Outdoor game nights: Play lawn games like cornhole, badminton, or frisbee

Recreational Water Activities

Water doesn’t transmit COVID-19, but close contact with others at aquatic venues can increase risk:

• Swimming: Visit pools or beaches during less crowded times
• Kayaking or canoeing: Paddle solo or with household members
• Stand-up paddleboarding: Enjoy water while naturally distancing from others
• Beach visits: Choose spacious areas and maintain distance from other groups

Sports and Recreation

Modified sports activities can be enjoyed with safety measures:

• Tennis and pickleball: Play doubles with household members or singles with others
• Golf: Walk the course with your own equipment
• Disc golf: Play at less crowded times
• Skateboarding: Practice at outdoor parks with good spacing

Safer Indoor Activities

When outdoor options aren’t feasible, certain indoor activities can be done safely with proper precautions.

At-Home Entertainment

Your home provides the safest environment for activities:

• Virtual fitness classes: Follow online workouts from home
• Cooking and baking: Experiment with new recipes
• Arts and crafts: Explore creative hobbies like painting, knitting, or woodworking
• Reading: Dive into books, magazines, or audiobooks
• Virtual social events: Host online game nights, book clubs, or coffee dates
• Home improvement projects: Tackle DIY tasks you’ve been postponing
• Learning new skills: Take online courses in subjects that interest you

Low-Contact Shopping and Services

Essential activities can be made safer with these approaches:

• Grocery shopping: Visit during off-peak hours and wear a well-fitted mask
• Curbside pickup: Order online and collect without entering stores
• Library services: Use contactless pickup for books and materials
• Drive-through services: Utilize drive-through options when available

Higher-Risk Activities to Approach with Caution

Certain activities carry elevated risk, especially during periods of high community transmission. If you choose to participate, take extra precautions.

Large Gatherings and Crowds

Events with many people in close proximity significantly increase exposure risk:

• Concerts and music festivals
• Sporting events with large audiences
• Parades and street festivals
• Crowded bars and nightclubs
• Convention centers and trade shows
• Indoor theaters and movie cinemas during peak times

If attending such events, consider wearing a high-quality mask, avoiding peak attendance times, and staying up to date with vaccinations.

Indoor Dining and Entertainment

Extended time in poorly ventilated indoor spaces with mask removal increases risk:

• Indoor restaurant dining, especially in crowded or small spaces
• Indoor bars where social distancing is difficult
• Karaoke venues
• Indoor gyms without adequate ventilation

Essential Safety Tips for All Activities

Regardless of which activities you choose, follow these guidelines to maximize safety:

Vaccination and Boosters

Stay current with COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots as recommended by health authorities. Vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Mask Wearing

Wear well-fitted, high-quality masks in indoor public spaces, especially during periods of high transmission. Consider N95 or KN95 masks for enhanced protection in higher-risk situations.

Physical Distancing

Maintain at least six feet of distance from people outside your household when possible, particularly indoors or in crowded outdoor settings.

Hand Hygiene

Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when handwashing isn’t available. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Testing and Symptoms

Test for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms or after potential exposure. Common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, and congestion.

Stay home if you feel unwell and cancel plans if you or someone in your group shows any symptoms.

Monitor Local Conditions

Keep informed about COVID-19 transmission levels in your community. Adjust your activities based on current risk levels, with more caution during periods of high spread.

Improve Indoor Ventilation

When gathering indoors, open windows and doors when weather permits, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and ensure HVAC systems are properly maintained.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Individuals

People at higher risk for severe COVID-19 should take extra precautions. This includes older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or compromised immune systems.

If you’re at higher risk:

• Prioritize outdoor over indoor activities
• Choose less crowded venues and off-peak times
• Wear high-quality masks consistently in public settings
• Ensure you’re fully vaccinated and boosted
• Consult with your healthcare provider about additional precautions
• Consider the vaccination status of people you’ll interact with closely

Activities for Families with Children

Keeping children engaged and active while maintaining safety requires creativity:

• Outdoor play: Visit playgrounds during less busy times
• Nature scavenger hunts: Create lists of items to find outdoors
• Bike rides: Explore neighborhood streets or bike paths together
• Outdoor sports: Play soccer, basketball, or catch in spacious areas
• Sidewalk chalk art: Create colorful designs in your driveway
• Backyard camping: Set up a tent for a fun overnight adventure
• Educational activities: Visit outdoor museums or nature centers
• Virtual playdates: Connect with friends online for games and conversation

Maintaining Mental Health Through Activities

The pandemic has taken a toll on mental health for many people. Engaging in safe activities can significantly improve psychological wellbeing:

• Social connection: Regular interaction with others, even virtually, combats isolation
• Physical exercise: Movement releases endorphins that improve mood
• Nature exposure: Time outdoors reduces stress and anxiety
• Creative pursuits: Artistic activities provide outlets for expression
• Routine establishment: Regular activities create structure and normalcy
• Mindfulness practices: Meditation, yoga, or tai chi can be done safely outdoors

If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, reach out to a mental health professional for support.

Planning Travel and Vacation Activities

Travel considerations depend on current conditions, vaccination status, and destination characteristics:

Lower-Risk Travel Options

• Road trips: Drive to destinations with minimal stops
• Outdoor destinations: Visit national parks, beaches, or mountains
• Vacation rentals: Stay in private accommodations rather than hotels
• Car camping: Camp from your vehicle with your own equipment

Travel Safety Measures

• Check local COVID-19 conditions at your destination
• Pack adequate masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes
• Consider travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage
• Research testing requirements for your destination
• Plan outdoor-focused activities
• Book accommodations with flexible cancellation policies

Adapting Activities as Conditions Change

The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve with new variants and changing transmission rates. Flexibility is essential:

• Stay informed through reliable sources like the CDC and local health departments
• Be prepared to modify or cancel plans if conditions worsen
• Have backup indoor and outdoor options ready
• Communicate openly with others about comfort levels and safety expectations
• Respect others’ decisions about risk tolerance

Creating Your Personal COVID Safety Plan

Develop a personalized approach based on your specific circumstances:

1. Assess your risk factors: Consider your health status, age, and living situation
2. Determine your risk tolerance: Decide what level of risk you’re comfortable accepting
3. Evaluate local conditions: Check current transmission rates in your area
4. Choose appropriate activities: Select options matching your risk assessment
5. Implement safety measures: Use masks, distancing, and other precautions as needed
6. Review and adjust regularly: Reassess your plan as situations change

Finding Balance Between Safety and Quality of Life

While caution is important, completely isolating yourself can harm your physical and mental health. The goal is finding a sustainable balance that allows you to:

• Maintain important social connections
• Stay physically active
• Pursue hobbies and interests
• Support your mental wellbeing
• Continue personal and professional development

Remember that zero risk is not achievable in daily life. Instead, focus on reducing risk to acceptable levels while preserving quality of life.

Resources and Support

Stay informed about COVID-19 through credible sources:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides updated guidance on activities and safety measures
• Your local health department offers information about community transmission levels
• Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on your health status
• Mental health hotlines and services provide support if you’re struggling emotionally

If you experience COVID-19 symptoms or test positive, consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate care. They can advise on whether you need medical attention and discuss treatment options if necessary.

Conclusion

Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic doesn’t mean putting your life completely on hold. By understanding transmission risks, choosing appropriate activities, and implementing safety measures, you can continue enjoying meaningful experiences while protecting yourself and others.

The key is staying informed, remaining flexible, and making thoughtful decisions based on current conditions and your personal circumstances. Whether you’re exploring outdoor adventures, maintaining social connections through modified gatherings, or finding creative ways to stay active at home, numerous options exist for living a fulfilling life during the pandemic.

Remember that the situation continues to evolve, and what’s appropriate may change over time. Stay connected to reliable information sources, maintain important health precautions like vaccination and testing, and don’t hesitate to seek medical or mental health support when needed.

With careful planning and reasonable precautions, you can find COVID safe activities that bring joy, connection, and normalcy to your life while keeping yourself and your community protected.

Sources:

• CDC – Participating in Activities
• Mayo Clinic – Safe Activities During COVID-19
• WHO – Coronavirus Disease Advice for Public
• CDC – How to Protect Yourself and Others
• CDC – Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines