Staying Healthy While Flying

Most travelers will start their trip with a long flight. Staying healthy while flying will be a huge factor in getting your trip off to a good start. Wouldn’t it be awful to get sick within your first week of travel?

Likewise, increasing your wellbeing on your flight home will ensure the trip ends on a “high note.”

I have taken many flights over the last thirty years and have found the following tips to be helpful in remaining healthy during the flight. I hope they do the same for you.

Stay Hydrated. This has to be the most important factor in staying healthy in the air. Staying hydrated begins several days before your trip. Two or three days prior to your flight drink at least a litre of clear fluid a day. Avoid alcohol and limit your caffeine intake, both of which can be quite dehydrating. During your flight drink alcohol free and caffeine free liquids. Staying hydrated helps prevent jet lag as well some illnesses.

Boost your immune system. A few weeks prior to your flight take steps to boost your immune system to fight of illnesses. Ways to do this include taking vitamin C and Zinc supplements and getting enough sleep.

Maintain good circulation. This is important in preventing deep vein thrombosis. DVT is more of a risk on longer flights. Prior to your flight walk as much as you can, this will give your circulation a good boost. Once on the plane be sure to walk around every hour. Granted, this is a little difficult when you only have a small aisle to walk along.

What I do is walk to the back of the plane and do a few stretches, then walk back. I repeat this a few times. Whilst sitting bend and straighten the legs, feet and toes regularly. Most people will not get DVT and it’s only a risk on flights longer than four hours. But by moving regularly and keeping hydrated, you will reduce your risk significantly.

Increase your mental wellbeing. We all know that traveling and flying can be stressful, so try and remain in a good place mentally. I would suggest taking advantage of the in-flight entertainment, reading a good book or engaging in a good conversation with your travel companion.

Stay comfortable. You can take steps to increase your in-flight comfort prior to your flight. Research your seat through websites such as Seatguru to ensure that you get a comfortable seat. The website gives seat details, such as leg room and how far away you are from the screaming babies!

Other steps that you can take to increase your comfort include bringing a pillow, earplugs and a blanket. I have also found that eye masks can be a great way to keep the light out when trying to sleep.

Eat healthy. I would not rely on airline food. Bring some healthy snacks such as nuts and protein bars. If you have the option to select your meal prior to your flight select the low sugar or salt option.

Healthy In Flight Meal

Stay away from the germs! Okay, there is a fine line between OCD and staying healthy! There is no need to go overboard on this. Take sensible precautions such as using antibacterial wipes and washing your hands regularly.

Medications. Remember to keep vital medications on board with you!

Following these practical tips will ensure that you arrive at your destination healthy and refreshed!

Bon Voyage!

Disclaimer: I do not have medical training. This article is based on my research and experience. Your health care provider knows you, your health history and the kinds of changes you can make to improve your health whilst flying. This article is not intended to replace advice from your health provider.