Be germ-aware! 5 Essential travel tips to follow on the flight

Long-haul flights can do a number on some of us, and the last thing we need is to catch a cold during the holiday season. Research has found that passengers are at a higher risk of developing cold symptoms and respiratory infections within one week of air travel. As more and more people will be traveling to be with their families during this holiday season, chances of catching the flu or cold on-flight will increase significantly.

Beware of these germ-infested spots!

Airplanes are regularly cleaned for any visible mess; however, it is hard to say if they are sanitized as well. A team of microbiologists and engineers at Auburn University, Alabama found the chair upholstery; tray table, armrest and the toilet handle to be susceptible to E-coli and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). What’s more worrying is that bacteria can live up to a week on airlines that are not properly cleaned.

This information can be scary enough to discourage a germaphobe from flying. However, our list of the best practices can help you stay healthy and enjoy a germ-free flight.

Keep a hand sanitizer handy!

Getting up to wash your hands every time you touch a dirty surface is not feasible on a plane. We recommend you carry a small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer and use it regularly throughout the flight to keep your hands clean.

Disinfect these areas before settling down

 

Tray table, armrest, seat belt and head rests are the breeding grounds for bacteria. Before making yourself comfortable, sanitize these areas with disinfecting wipes or surface disinfectant spray.

Drink up!

While most of us avoid drinking water to skip washroom breaks, staying hydrated is highly beneficial for various reasons. Cabin pressure can adversely affect a dehydrated body and the risk of developing blood clots increases. Drinking water or sipping on a hot tea is recommended to keep yourself hydrated. Breathing in the steam from a hot cup of tea also helps moisten the nasal passage and ease congestion.

Use nasal spray!

Typically airline cabin air is exceptionally dry and dehydrating, with humidity levels around 12 percent, the air is drier than most deserts. It’s no surprise that most passengers feel dehydrated and or end up with a nose bleed. To prevent nasal membranes from drying out, use saline sprays. They are proven to relieve congestion and remove airborne dust and other irritants.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 Sleep well!

Taking a good night sleep is optimal for your body especially before travelling. A well-rested body not only helps you perform well, it also strengthens your immune system. If you’re somebody who feels anxious before travelling and spends their night counting sheep, try calming your brain by indulging in a hot cup of camomile tea or doing light breathing exercise to relax your brain.

By being germ-aware and avoiding getting infected can increase your chances of staying healthy and enjoying a happy flight.