Avoid Getting Sick when you Fly

An airplane filled with people is like a little incubator for germs. Those germs don't have to be the downfall to your health and ruin your vacation. Following these tips, that I alway use when I travel, can help keep your immune system from overworking and also give it little extra support for when those invading germs cause it to.

Sleep - Make sure you get plenty of sleep the night before your flight. A lack of sleep weakens your immune system putting you at risk of not being able to fight off all the germs you will come in contact with.

Keep hydrated - It is easier to get dehydrated in the dry conditions of an airplane cabin. Drink lots of water before, during and after your flight. Dehydration weakens the immune system. Avoid sodas, juices and alcohol. They do not hydrate your body like water and caffeine and alcohol can have the opposite effect.

Vitamin C packets - Bring dissolvable vitamin C drink packets, like Emergen-C or a product like Airborne. The vitamin C will help your immune system and the flavors of packets like Emergen-C can satisfy your desire for juice or soda during your flight.

Sanitize hands - Bring along a small bottle of hand sanitizer and keep it in your purse or carry-on. Use it after using the restroom or when you touch highly touched areas. It will help kill the germs you will inevitably come in contact with during your flight.

Bring a blanket and pillow - Bring an extra sweater or your own blanket and your own travel pillow. Avoid using the in-flight blankets and pillows to avoid coming in contact with germs left on them, as they're not alway cleaned.

Move - Get up and walk around. Yes, there isn't far to go on a plane but getting up and moving a little helps keep your circulation moving. It can also prevent blood from clotting possibly causing deep vein thrombosis. If you are stuck in the middle where it is hard to get out move your feet around in circles and up and down under the seat. It will keep your circulation flowing when you can't get up as often as you want.

Fly First Class - This is not the easiest tip, but if you can fly first or business class, They provide more room and less people meaning less chance of coming in contact with germs. If you can't, like most of us, afford first class try getting an emergency exit seat. It is the roomiest of coach seats and will let you stretch out and move easier.