“During travel, we are exposed to many types of pathogens, especially in enclosed spaces like an airplane, where circulated air easily spreads viruses, or crowded public places like airports where many people touch the same surfaces,” says Dr. Robert Biernbaum, medical director of WellNow Urgent Care. No one wants their trip ruined by an infection on the departing flight, but fortunately, there are some tricks to avoid getting sick while flying. In the following section, two doctors offer tips to help you stay healthy while traveling.
Before Travel
To avoid catching anything during your flight, it’s worth preparing before boarding. Here are some suggestions you can do at home.
- Boost your immune system! Drink plenty of fluids, reduce stress, eat vitamin-rich foods, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. These healthy habits strengthen your body’s natural defenses, helping you better handle crowds and shared surfaces, Biernbaum explains. Robinson adds that these steps help protect you from commonly touched surfaces at airports or on planes.
- Stay hydrated! Start drinking more water a few weeks before departure, partly because proper hydration is essential for overall health and supporting your immune system, and partly because timing high water intake the day before your flight isn’t magic, explains Dr. Karla Robinson.
- Choose your seat wisely! If you can reserve a seat in advance, consider where you sit. A 2018 study found that window seats are less likely to be exposed to pathogens, and a 2022 study also pointed out that the rear of the plane might be safer.
- Get basic supplies! According to Dr. Karla Robinson, a general practitioner, it’s wise to get over-the-counter medications commonly used against colds and flu in case you feel unwell away from home. Pack healthy snacks and an empty water bottle you can refill at the airport to stay hydrated during your journey.
During Travel
You can’t relax completely just by boarding the plane; here are some more tips to avoid catching anything onboard.
- Wear a mask! “Our most common problems are respiratory viruses,” says Biernbaum. If you really don’t want to catch anything, the mask is your best friend. Robinson says mask-wearing is one of the most effective ways to protect against colds or flu, especially in crowded airports and planes with circulated air.
- Wash and sanitize your hands! Wash your hands with soap and water after every restroom use, and carry travel-sized hand sanitizer to use frequently, especially after touching door handles, handrails, elevator buttons, and other busy surfaces, advises Biernbaum.
- Wipe down frequently touched surfaces! Pack some disinfectant wipes and clean surfaces like the tray table, armrests, and seat belts. This not only protects against respiratory viruses but also provides extra hygiene, for example, after changing a baby’s diaper.
After Travel
Your tasks don’t end after getting off the plane; do this after arrival.
- Wash your hands again! After leaving the plane, wash your hands at the airport and maintain this habit throughout your trip. Regular handwashing is crucial, Biernbaum emphasizes. If there’s no restroom available, use hand sanitizer.
- Maintain your usual healthy habits! Your daily routine and healthy habits can easily be disrupted during vacation, but Robinson says this is not a good idea. Stay hydrated, get enough rest, and eat nutrient-rich foods to keep your immune system strong after traveling.
