TRAVEL TIPS

health & well-being

Land on your feet with this "Top Ten" list of inflight health tips, from our own well-traveled employees.

    #10 - Be mindful of the confined space on board the aircraft by covering your coughs and sneezes. Consider changing travel plans if you know you really should be home resting in bed.

    • Alcohol-based hand towlettes are an extra defense against germs. Currently TSA will allow travelers to carry travel-size toiletries (3 ounce or less) that fit comfortably in ONE quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag through security checkpoints.

    #8 - Bring your own pillow to help you feel more comfortable on the plane.

    #7 - Mom's advice is still the best: wash your hands often and thoroughly. Health officials recommend a good 15 second scrubbing with warm water and soap before rinsing.

    #6 - When you're on the plane, take a minute or two every-so-often to move your legs around to keep circulation going. Feel free to take a quick walk up and down the aisles (when it's not during beverage and snack service time, if at all possible).

    • A great leg stretching exercise: Plant your heels on the ground and pump your feet up and down.

    • A great neck and back exercise: Lift and hold your shoulders up. Make a circular motion with your shoulders. Relax and repeat.

    #5 - If your ears are sensitive, consider wearing earplugs or protective sound cancellation headphones.

    #4 - Always always always carry your prescription medicine with you. Bring basic over-the-counter medicines as well, such as aspirin and antihistamine.

    #3 - The air onboard can be dry, so if possible, wear your eyeglasses instead of contacts. If you choose to wear your contacts, per TSA you are allowed to carry on up to 3 oz. of contact solution in accordance with the new security guidelines.

    #2 - If you're prone to motion sickness, locate the air sickness bag, open the air vent, avoid reading and keep your eyes focused on the horizon whenever possible. You might also consider one of the many fine pharmaceutical remedies available either from a physician or over the counter.

    ...and the #1 health tip from our own experts is...

    Don't stress out! Breathe deeply, relax, and know that we'll do everything in our power to make your trip enjoyable.