FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Germy Flights: Five Tips to Avoid Getting Sick

by Akhil Kalepu

Nov 5, 2014

© Martinmark | Dreamstime

Tips / Travel

As you board the airplane, you can probably already feel all the germs creeping around bathroom door handles, seat pockets and armrests. One passenger with a cold sneezes and their seat neighbor has a cold next week. Airplanes aren’t always cleaned as they should be with such tight turnarounds. Passengers who don’t want to go home with an illness after their flight have to take matters into their own hands. Before you board, keep these tips in mind to avoid getting sick on a plane.

 

Wash your hands often

One of the easiest ways to keep all of germs at bay is to wash your hands as often as possible. Viruses can live on armrests, TV remote controls, tray tables and lights for a long time. In essence, if the person on the flight before you was sick, you could pick up their germs. Washing your hands will help fight against these germs and any others you might encounter on the plane.

 

Drink up (water, that is)

It is all too common to see the drink cart come up the aisle and passengers order alcoholic beverages. While that glass of red wine might sound appealing, it isn’t helping you ward off germs. Air travel is dehydrating, which can weaken your body’s ability to fight off a cold. Rather than selecting alcohol, try to drink water periodically throughout your flight to remain hydrated.

 

Resist touching airplane surfaces if you don’t have to

The tray table, the seat pocket in front of you or the shade for the window are all crawling with germs. If you don’t have to touch these surfaces, don’t. By not touching the tray table, you eliminate picking up the germs lurking on these surfaces. It is also a good idea to pack your own blanket and pillow. These are often reused from passenger to passenger without being cleaned.

 

Pack antibacterial wipes and gel

If you do have to touch those airplane surfaces, you might as well give them a good cleaning before you do. Antibacterial wipes are useful for wiping down the tray table or armrest before you settle into your flight. If you have to open up the overhead bin or the laboratory bathroom door, try to use a wipe to grasp these surfaces instead.

 

Get plenty of rest before your flight

A weakened immune system will make it quite difficult to fend off a germy airplane. Before you take off on your trip, try to get as much rest as possible. Well-rested and healthy, you stand a better chance of avoiding the bugs on board.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Destinations / Middle East
Apr 2, 2025

Where Can You See the World’s Largest Drone Light Show?

Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism collaborates with Colorado-based Nova Sky Stories to bring the world’s largest drone light show to Abu Dhabi. Nova Sky Stories has already set records with its drone technology (such as the Guinness World Record for largest number of drones flown as part of one event), and you may have seen Nova’s work during recent Olympics ceremonies and at the Super Bowl.

AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises

When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.

Trends / Health & Wellness
Apr 2, 2025

Grand Hyatt Kauai to Offer Transformative “Lifestyle Reset” Wellness Retreat

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa recently announced a three-day, four-night transformative wellness retreat designed to reinvigorate the body and mind. Participants fully customize their wellness journey by choosing from a menu of spa treatments, fitness offerings, cultural activities and educational workshops.

Hotel
Apr 1, 2025

Bahia Principe Introduces Honeymoon Experiences, Exclusive Offers

Getting married soon and not sure where to go on your honeymoon? Add Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts to your list. This hotel brand offers the perfect honeymoon experience across multiple beautiful destinations in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. With adults-only properties and beautiful beachfront accommodations, Bahia Principe offers a variety of exclusive amenities, romantic activities and personalized experiences to ensure the ultimate honeymoon experience.

Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.

Destinations / North America
Apr 1, 2025

4 Can’t-Miss 2025 Summer Festivals in Columbus, Ohio

Summer festival season will soon be in full swing, and Columbus, Ohio, has an impressive lineup of events worth a visit.