There’s nothing quite like pulling up a chair at Grandma’s holiday table or gathering around a dazzling, gift-filled Christmas tree at Mom and Dad’s house with your family all around.
Yet, that can come with a price if they live in another state.
The gift no one wants is catching a bug on the airplane or train enroute to making warm family memories and then arriving with an impending fever or cold that puts a damper on everything.
If you’re one of the 120 million Americans traveling during the holidays you’ve likely encountered this downside: crowded airports, packed airplanes and brimming full trains—all while cold and flu season is in full swing.
Dr. David Rzeszutko, vice president of medical and clinical operations at Priority Health, shares 5 essential tips to ward off those bugs and stay healthy when traveling:
- Boost Your Immune System Before Traveling
- Start preparing days before your trip: eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, get plenty of sleep and consider immune-supporting supplements like vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc to strengthen your defenses.
- Stay Hydrated
- Airplane cabins have extremely low humidity (around 10%), which can dry out your nasal passages and weaken your natural defenses against germs.
- Drink plenty of water before and during your trip, and limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Wear a Mask
- Consider wearing a face covering which can significantly reduce the risk of airborne viruses like influenza and COVID-19. In fact, a U.S. Department of Defense study found transmission risk on planes is “extremely unlikely” when masks are worn.
- Practice Good Hand Hygiene
- Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces like tray tables, seat belts and bathroom handles.
- Avoid touching your face, especially eyes, nose and mouth when traveling.
- Disinfect Your Space
- Bring disinfecting wipes in your purse or carry-on and wipe down your seat area, including armrests, tray tables and touchscreens before settling in. Germs can survive on surfaces for hours or even days.
“With a bit of extra care and mindfulness, holiday travel can be both enjoyable and healthy,” said Rzeszutko. “Taking proactive steps in crowded areas—airplanes, public restrooms, restaurants or trains— can help prevent the spread of cold or flu germs, ensuring everyone arrives at Grandma’s house feeling their best.”
Don’t let Open Enrollment get lost in the holiday shuffle. Open Enrollment for health coverage is happening now. The first deadline is December 15th and the final deadline is January 15, 2026. Learn more here and watch Kerry Doman talk with HER Priority Health customer support special to address frequently asked questions.
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