Air travel during colder months raises the chance of picking up respiratory and other infections. Between flu, COVID-19, RSV and stomach bugs like norovirus, it’s smart to layer simple precautions. The steps below reduce your risk and make travel more comfortable.
Wear a mask
A well-fitting mask lowers the chance of inhaling or spreading respiratory viruses. Masking is especially helpful if you are sick, sitting near someone who is symptomatic, or traveling on a crowded flight.
Keep hands clean
Frequent hand washing with soap and water is the single best protection. When that isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Carry a small bottle to use after touching high-contact surfaces like armrests and lavatory doors.
Limit lavatory use when possible
Airplane bathrooms are used by many passengers and can harbor germs on faucets, flush handles and door latches. For short flights, use the restroom before boarding. If you must use the onboard lavatory, touch as few surfaces as possible and use a paper towel or tissue to open doors and operate faucets.
Stay hydrated
Cabin air is very dry, often around 10–20% humidity, which can dry the mucous membranes that protect your airways. Drink water regularly—about 8 ounces per hour is a helpful rule of thumb—and avoid excess alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
Avoid high-touch surfaces
Viruses can survive on hard surfaces for hours. Where possible, avoid using the tray table or wipe it and other surfaces with a disinfectant wipe. Skip the seatback pocket for storing personal items, and consider wiping overhead vent controls, seat belt buckles and lavatory buttons.
Resist touching your face
Infection occurs when germs reach your mouth, nose or eyes. Be mindful not to touch your face unless your hands are clean.
Consider disposable gloves as a reminder
Gloves can help prevent hand-to-face contact, but they are not a substitute for handwashing. If you wear gloves, change them after touching shared surfaces and clean your hands afterward.
Choose your seat intentionally
Window seats see less foot traffic and contact from passing passengers than aisle seats, so they can reduce exposure. If you want fewer interruptions, pick a window seat.
Use the overhead vent
Directing the overhead vent downward can create airflow that helps push respiratory droplets away from your face. Modern jets also use HEPA filters and refresh cabin air frequently, which reduces airborne virus concentration.
Prepare your body before travel
Stay current on vaccines, including the seasonal flu shot, COVID-19 boosters and RSV vaccines if you are eligible. Prioritize sleep, a balanced diet and stress management. Supplements such as vitamin D and zinc can support immune health for some people; limited evidence suggests taking about 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily may reduce the likelihood of some viral infections for travelers.
Practical summary
No measure is foolproof, but combining actions—masking when needed, rigorous hand hygiene, avoiding high-touch areas, staying well hydrated, picking a lower-contact seat and keeping vaccinations up to date—substantially lowers your risk of getting sick on a plane and helps you arrive ready to enjoy your trip.