10 Tips for Staying Healthy While Flying

By Jenny Hepler

Published June 12, 2023

Read Time: 2 mins

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What’s worse than getting sick while traveling?

Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, being ill can ruin a trip.

Having traveled internationally for more than 25 years, I’ve picked up several tips to help increase your chances of staying healthy when traveling by air:

  1. Choose a window seat if possible. This can reduce your exposure to other passengers walking by in the aisle.
  2. Carry a travel pack of disinfectant wipes to wipe down surfaces such as armrests, the seat belt buckle, video screen and – most important – the tray table.
  3. Wash your hands regularly. Airports and airplanes are high-traffic areas with many surfaces touched by numerous people. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
  4. Stay hydrated. Airplane cabins have low humidity levels, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can further dehydrate you.
  5. Keep your nasal passages moist. Use saline nose spray throughout the flight, as the dry cabin air can irritate your nasal passages, making them susceptible to germs.
  6. Moisturize. The dry cabin air doesn’t just affect your nasal passages. Use a hand lotion and lip balm to keep your skin moist – cracks in skin especially on your lips can let in germs.
  7. Consider