Your Germ-Free Travel Kit: How to Avoid Getting Sick When Flying & More

Nobody likes being sick, but being sick while you’re traveling is a whole other level of terrible. It’s no wonder, then, why many folks take every precaution imaginable to try and block the onslaught of germs that typically present themselves when traveling. From the TSA security bins to airplane restrooms, there are an exorbitant number of surfaces crawling with germs and bacteria that have the potential to ruin your plans.

Your first defense against catching a rogue pathogen is to be proactive. Whether that looks like upping your vitamin intake or simply washing your hands more frequently, being as prepared as possible will increase the likelihood of a healthy, germ-free getaway.

Here are some of the best items to keep in your own personal germ-free travel kit that’ll help keep you healthy before, during and after your journey.

Hand Sanitizer

A tried-and-true staple of every germ-free travel kit, hand sanitizer is one of the best ways to feel clean and is proven to get rid of any germs on your hands when soap is M.I.A. The pocket-sized bottles from Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day are perfect for toting around and are made with essential oils to ensure great scent and avoid the dreaded dryness that can sometimes come from using sanitizer in abundance.

Self-Cleaning Water Bottle

When you’re on the go, and especially when you have more than one flight to catch, there isn’t much time to thoroughly disinfect your reusable water bottle. With the LARQ self-cleaning bottle you can stay hydrated for your whole trip and not have to worry about if what you’re drinking out of is squeaky clean. Using LED technology to sanitize water and the inside surface of the bottle, odor-causing bacteria and viruses are neutralized and gone for good in 60 seconds.

Disinfecting Wipes

Touching an infected surface is one of the more common ways we get sick. An effective way to limit the number of bacteria we come into contact with is to wipe away the germs, literally. These Clorox wipes come in easy-to-carry packs of 75 and are able to kill 99.9% of viruses on surfaces like bathroom counters, stainless steel door handles and, yes, your foldout airplane tray. They’re safe, too; because they’re bleach-free, these wipes are fine to use on children’s toys on-the-go as well.

Cell Phone Sanitizer

Our phones are ten times dirtier than a toilet seat. Let that sink in. In order to combat the filth, try a cell phone sanitizer that disinfects all sides and surfaces of your device in minutes. Best part? It can clean more than just phones. Add your keys, jewelry, headphones or other high-touch items to make sure they’re all as clean as possible.

KN95 Face Masks

The Covid-19 pandemic taught us many things, and one of them being that face masks do a great job keeping airborne viruses at bay. Not all masks are created equal, however. It’s recommended to wear either a KN95 or N95 mask, as these don’t allow outside air to reach your nose and mouth if worn properly, which makes them ideal for enclosed areas like planes or trains.

Tray Table Cover

It may seem redundant, but if you’re wondering how to avoid getting sick when flying, using your own tray table cover may be the best way to dodge all the germs lurking deep inside that seatback pocket. Instead, organize all of your in-flight entertainment, drinks and snacks knowing they’re not coming into contact with any bacteria left behind by previous passengers.

Travel Bag with Hanging Hook

All of these germ-free travel kit items need to be easily accessible, which makes this bag perfect for keeping everything organized. With transparent pockets and a hook for hanging, you’ll be able to see all your items in one glance. Its size also allows it to be tucked away under your seat until you need it again.

If, despite your best efforts, you still end up coming home from your trip feeling ill, the CDC recommends contacting your doctor upon your return and sharing information that may be pertinent to your treatment, like where you traveled, how long you were there and what you consumed during your time away.

When you make a purchase through a third-party link, AAA Northeast could receive revenue. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. 

What are your best tips for staying healthy when traveling? Let us know in the comments!