Most people believe that flying with hundreds of people puts you at risk of picking up a cough or cold. But it’s a common myth that the air itself is the problem.
During the flight, outside sterile air is supplied to the cabin from the engines where it is heated, compressed, cooled and passed into the cabin via the ventilation system.
Around 50 percent of this air is recirculated through high-efficiency filters which remove 99.97 per cent of dust, bacteria and fungi. Normal airline cabin air changes between 15 and 20 times an hour, compared with 12 times per hour in a typical office building.
However, when you’re spending time that close to other people, it certainly makes it more likely that you could pick up a cold or flu bug from the person next to you. Common sense is the best way to combat this. Here are some dos and don’ts:
- Do get enough rest before and during your trip. You’re more susceptible to infection when you are tired.
- Do use hand sanitizer a few times during the flight, particularly after you’re settled and before you eat anything. I like this BELLI Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer for travel because it works without using ethyl alcohol that dries out your skin. Your skin gets dry enough inside airplane cabins that only have 20 percent humidity.
- Do drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is always a key to staying healthy, and flying is dehydrating.
- Don’t place food directly on the fold-down tray – lay it on a napkin or something. On some airlines, the trays are only sanitized once per day.
- Do eat sensibly. This goes without saying, I suppose. When I must eat at the airport, I try to seek out fresh food. Many of the “grab and go” stands have fruit trays with apple slices and cheese for sale, and this has become my “go-to” airport meal.
- Don’t walk on to the plane without a snack. It’s very possible that you could board a plane and be stuck on it though mealtime, so bring some healthy snacks just in case. I especially love this Emerald Berry Blend Premium Trail Mix, because it comes in a great size for travel and I love the taste.
- Don’t drink too much. While a cocktail on the plane may seem like a great way to start a getaway, remember that alcohol is dehydrating, and the altitude will increase the effects of alcohol. So, don’t overindulge.
What your secrets to staying healthy while traveling via airplane?
