How to Stay Healthy While Traveling by Air During the Holidays

Holiday travel can be exciting, but it often comes with the risk of getting sick. Airplanes, with their enclosed spaces and shared surfaces, create the perfect environment for germs to spread. Coupled with the stress of holiday travel, many people find themselves falling ill right before or after their trips. However, there are ways to reduce your risk of illness while traveling by air, ensuring that you arrive at your destination healthy and ready to enjoy the holiday season. Let’s explore some effective health hacks to keep you safe during your holiday travels.

Prioritize Hydration

One of the most important things you can do to stay healthy while flying is to stay hydrated. Airplane cabins have very low humidity levels, which can quickly dehydrate your body. Dehydration weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to germs and viruses. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to keep your body functioning at its best.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can further dehydrate you. Instead, opt for water or herbal teas to keep your hydration levels up. You can also bring a reusable water bottle to the airport and fill it after passing through security, ensuring you have a steady supply of water throughout your journey.

Boost Your Immune System Before Flying

Boosting your immune system in the days leading up to your flight can make a big difference in how well your body fights off any germs you encounter. Start by eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support immune health. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and leafy greens, and zinc, found in nuts and seeds, are particularly helpful in strengthening your body’s defenses.

Supplements like vitamin D, elderberry, and probiotics can also support your immune system. Consider incorporating them into your daily routine before your trip. Exercise regularly and get enough sleep, as both are critical for maintaining a strong immune system.

Sanitize Surfaces

Airplanes are full of high-touch surfaces that can harbor germs. From tray tables and seatbelt buckles to armrests and bathroom door handles, these areas are frequently touched by passengers and not always cleaned thoroughly between flights. To protect yourself, bring disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. Wipe down any surfaces you will be touching, such as your seat, tray table, and armrests, as soon as you board the plane.

Keep your hands clean by using hand sanitizer frequently, especially before eating or touching your face. Airborne viruses, like the flu or common cold, can easily spread when you touch contaminated surfaces and then rub your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Wear a Mask

While mask mandates have been lifted in many areas, wearing a mask while traveling is still a smart move, especially during the holidays when travel volume is high. Masks help prevent the spread of airborne viruses, such as COVID-19 and the flu, by reducing the transmission of respiratory droplets.

Opt for a high-quality mask, such as an N95 or KN95, which provides better filtration than standard cloth masks. Wearing a mask can significantly reduce your risk of inhaling airborne pathogens, particularly in crowded areas like airports and airplane cabins.

Be Mindful of Airplane Air Quality

Airplanes use HEPA filters, which are highly effective at trapping airborne particles, including viruses and bacteria. However, the airflow on planes is often not enough to prevent close contact transmission. To reduce your risk of breathing in contaminated air, keep your overhead air vent open and pointed slightly downward toward your face. This creates a barrier of clean air that can help push away any contaminated air droplets from nearby passengers.

Maintain Good Hygiene Habits

Maintaining good hygiene habits while flying is essential for staying healthy. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before eating. Avoid touching your face, as this is a common way that germs enter your body. Bring hand sanitizer and use it when handwashing isn’t an option.

Also, consider wearing glasses instead of contact lenses. Dry airplane air can irritate your eyes, and contacts can increase discomfort, especially when combined with the potential exposure to airborne irritants and germs.

Conclusion: Fly Healthy, Stay Healthy

Staying healthy while flying during the holiday season requires a proactive approach. By staying hydrated, boosting your immune system, sanitizing surfaces, wearing a mask, and practicing good hygiene, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick. With these simple yet effective health hacks, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday season, knowing you’ve done your best to protect your health while traveling.