With so many people traveling over the holidays, and it being mid-flu season, there are going to be a lot of germs flying around. Like, a lot more than usual. The holidays are already stressful. You don't want to add sickness into the mix, too. Make sure you aren't opening presents while hacking up a lung and holding a fist full of tissues. These tips can be used for every trip you go on, because vacation crud is a thing, and it sucks.
There are some things you can do to avoid getting sick while traveling, so your trip isn't ruined. I've been sick on a lot of trips, but I've learned to plan ahead and also take a few extra things in my bag.
Antibacterial wipes and gel
Wipe down all the things you might touch on the plane, like the armrests and the tray table. The water on the plane all comes from the same reservoir, which may or may not contain bacteria, because they are super hard to clean, so when you use the restroom, instead of washing your hands in the tiny sink, bring your bottle of Purell with you instead to kill any germs you've picked up.
Avoid coffee, tea and water on the plane
Speaking of dirty water, avoid anything with water on the plane, unless you are handed a bottle of water that hasn't already been opened. When the flight attendants pour water into cups from a bottle, chances are it has been filled from the airplane water system. I buy a new bottle of water at the airport to bring onboard and then order a soft drink when the drink cart comes around. Also, if you like tomato juice, it tends to be the most hydrating and nutritious thing you can get, so that's also an option.
Pack Emergen-C, Vitamin C, or those chewable immune boosters
Start using these at least 3 days before travel, double up on the day of travel and keep using while on your trip. You want your immune system to be in the best shape it can be and extra vitamins never hurt anyone. I also like the Halls Defense lozenges, too. They give you a little extra boost, taste pretty good, and help if you end up having a sore throat anyway. I found that they helped me bounce back faster (with the addition of a mid-day nap) when I started to feel under the weather while in Hawaii.
Hydrate
Your body has to work twice as hard if you aren't treating it right. You need to stay hydrated, so even if you're using wine to deal with your crazy family, make sure you're also chugging water in between, so you don't get sick. You may also benefit from a travel-size humidifier like this one, which you may also be able to add a few drops of essential oil to for a little extra boost.
Eat your vegetables
You need vitamins and nutrients. Those Vitamin C tablets aren't going to help with all the other things your body needs, so make sure you're also trying to eat well. Eat as many fruits and veggies as you can. I declare pumpkin pie counts, but try not to make it all sweets, because then you're not going to feel that great with all the extra sugar.
Get enough sleep
Without enough sleep, your body tends to shut itself down...in the form of a cold. Nobody wants that. Skip a few late-night activities or head home early from that Christmas party. If anyone blames you, that's on them. You need to take care of yourself first. Alcohol, crappy party food and late nights are not going to do you any favors. At least opt for the baby carrots and some beauty sleep. You'll thank me. This is also why I like to stay in a hotel instead of with other people. It enables me to have my own space and be able to unwind properly. If you need a little extra help with catching your Zs, some great ideas are Melatonin, Dream Water and this fantastic pillow spray.
Don't forget about your allergy meds and other medication
I have the worst allergies and sometimes moving to a different environment makes them worse, sometimes better. I just remember that I need to keep up my steady stream of meds, whether I need them at the time or not, to be a person. And if you take regular medication, don't forget it at home.
Here's to a happy and healthy holiday season and Christmas/New Year vacations! How do you keep yourself from getting sick on your travels?
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