Election Day 2020: What to bring with you to the polls

Voting in the 2020 general election may look a little different this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

There are some things you may consider bringing this year that never would have crossed your mind previously (hello, face masks).

Here are a few things you may want to bring with you to the polls:

READ: 9 ways the 2020 presidential race could turn out

Face mask: Officials say you won’t be turned away if you forget to bring your face mask to the polls, but many counties do have ordinances requiring that you wear them in public indoor areas, and they are highly encouraged.

Your own pen: Your voting location will supply pens, but if you’re feeling uneasy about using a pen that someone else may have touched, you’re allowed to bring your own. Just make sure to check with your local supervisor of elections office to make sure it’s the right color. Some require only blue or black ink.

READ: Voting in person? Here’s what to expect if you’re headed to the polls during a pandemic

Hand sanitizer: Polling places will likely have their own stash of sanitizer, but it doesn’t hurt to have your own handy to use after touching door handles or communal equipment.

Your kids: Supervisor of elections officials encourage parents to bring their children to the polls to help teach them the importance of voting from a young age.

READ: How Trump, Biden address the COVID-19 pandemic differently during rallies

Your sample ballot: You’re allowed to bring your sample ballot that you filled out at home to the polls to help you remember which way you wanted to vote in each race.

Your ID: You will need to bring a current and valid photo identification with a signature to cast your ballot. Click here for a list of approved IDs from the Florida Supervisor of Elections Office.

Video: Coronavirus driving historic early voting turnout: How to stay safe while voting during a pandemic The coronavirus pandemic is partly driving historic early voting and mail-in ballot numbers.