Planes, road trips, and busy airports can strain your body—especially during cold and flu season. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother, healthier holiday journey.
Prep your immune system before you go
- Prioritize sleep the week before travel.
- Stay consistent with any daily medications.
- Load up on fruits, vegetables, and hydration.
- Get your flu shot and updated vaccines before crowds peak.
The travel-day essentials
- Bring a refillable water bottle, hydrate before coffee or soda.
- Pack hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes for trays, handles, screens.
- Keep medications (and a small first-aid kit) in your carry-on, not your checked bag.
- For road trips, plan stretch breaks every 2–3 hours.
If you get motion sickness
Try ginger chews, wrist acupressure bands, or dimenhydrinate/meclizine if needed. Sit near the wing on planes, avoid reading in the car, and keep air vents open.
Traveling with kids? Keep it simple
- Bring snacks that won’t cause sugar crashes.
- Pack one comfort item (favorite toy, blanket).
- Load a playlist or audio story for quiet time.
Heading out this holiday season? Stop by for travel meds, immune support, or a quick wellness check before you go.

