Staying Well During Holiday and Winter Travel

The holidays and winter months are a busy travel season in Minnesota. Many families hit the road for gatherings, take shopping trips to bigger towns, or board a plane for some mid-winter sunshine. As joyful as these trips can be, they also come when colds, flu, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses spread easily—especially in crowded stores, busy airports, and packed family events.

While we can't avoid every germ, a few simple habits can make a meaningful difference when traveling this time of year.

Keep your hands clean

During winter travel, we touch everything from gas pumps and shopping carts to airport tray tables and handrails, surfaces that aren't cleaned as often as we'd hope. A quick hand wash or a squirt of sanitizer when you can't get to a sink goes a long way in preventing illness.

Be mindful in crowds and close quarters

If you've ever boarded a winter flight and noticed half the plane coughing, you know how quickly respiratory illnesses can move through a group. The same applies when you're shoulder-to-shoulder in a busy store or gathered in a packed living room. Small adjustments can help, give yourself a little extra space when possible, turn your face away from someone who's coughing or sneezing, and keep your hands away from your face until you can wash them.

On airplanes, use the overhead vent to keep air moving around your seat and consider wiping down tray tables and armrests. After leaving a store or gathering, a quick wipe of your phone or car door handle can help cut down on lingering germs.

Prioritize sleep, hydration, and breaks

Travel can throw off our routines. Early flights, long car rides, and back-to-back events can leave anyone feeling run down. Your immune system works best when you're rested and hydrated. Carry a water bottle, grab a nutritious snack when you can, and take breaks during long drives to stretch and boost circulation.

Pack a small "health kit"

A few basics like hand sanitizer, tissues, disinfecting wipes, pain relievers, and your usual medications—can save time and stress. For flights, always keep essential medications in your carry-on bag. And here's a helpful tip: wipe your phone regularly. It's one of the germiest items we handle.

Stay up to date on seasonal vaccines

Flu, COVID-19, and other seasonal vaccines help reduce the severity and spread of illness. If you haven't gotten yours yet, early winter is still a great time, especially before gathering with higher-risk family members or taking a crowded flight. If you're unsure which vaccines are right for you, check with your primary healthcare provider. They can recommend what's best based on your age, health history, and travel plans.

Listen to your body and stay home if needed

If you're not feeling well, it's okay to slow down or make changes. Resting early may help you recover faster and prevent spreading illness. If symptoms linger or worsen, reach out to your local clinic or urgent care for guidance.

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed. With a little preparation and a few healthy habits, you can stay well, travel safely, and make the most of the season's moments, big and small.