Cold and flu season is coming; Tips for staying healthy on the road

With cold and flu season on the horizon, travelers should take extra care to help ensure a healthy trip. Easy things you can do include:

Washing up, especially after airport screening

While health experts always recommend frequent hand washing as a way to protect against germs, studies have found that the plastic bins used at airport security checkpoints hold higher levels of germs compared to other common surfaces found at airports, including toilets. Other surfaces that don’t get cleaned as often as they should and thus become a breeding ground for germs include touch screens at self-service kiosks, airplane seat back pockets, light switches and TV remotes at hotels, and seat belt buckles in taxis and rideshare cars along with control switches in rental cars.

Getting your flu shot

Health officials say one of the best ways to avoid the flu is to get an influenza vaccine. And now is the time to do it. If you don’t have time to get down to your local pharmacy, busy travelers can check for shot clinics at the airport. Many U.S. airports offer travel health services in small on-site clinics or pop-up kiosks.

Keeping your immune system strong by maintaining your fitness routine

Maintaining a fitness routine can be one of the biggest challenges of travel, but if you plan ahead it can be done. For example, does the airport you are traveling through offer a gym or yoga room? Some hotels offer a unique menu of fitness services such as a running concierge, use of bicycles, fitness classes, or videos. Check with your hotel in advance to verify these options. You can more effectively build workouts into your schedule and pack the right things, even if it’s just a resistance band or similar for in-room exercise. 

Eating healthy and staying hydrated

Avoid that run down feeling by eating healthy foods regularly. Missed meals and junk food are common scenarios for many travelers. Bring healthy snacks such as protein bars, packable fruit or almonds that can help you stave off hunger while keeping your fuel levels consistent throughout your travels.  Also, be sure to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated will help you feel energized and will also help keep you healthier.  

Making good sleep a priority

Getting plenty of good quality sleep is also important to staying healthy, especially while on the road.  Being well-rested will help keep your immune system working effectively. Some hotel chains offer special amenities, such as a menu of pillows or SmartRoom technology, which gives guests better control over room temperature and lighting, all of which can help improve the sleep experience.