Flying during a pandemic
While I don’t suggest traveling during a worldwide pandemic sometimes it is completely necessary. Having flown multiple times throughout different stages of the pandemic here are few things I have learned flying during COVID.
1. Before you fly boost your immune system-Prior to traveling, you should be strengthening your immune system by taking 1000mg of Vitamin C and 50mg of Zinc daily. These are common Covid-19 supplements to help you fight off any infections or viruses.
2. Don’t stress! Traveling is stressful enough but the risk of contracting COVID19 on a plane is extremely low. The airflow in today's aircraft has been measured at three times the amount mandated for infection control rooms in hospitals.
3. If you can fly Delta who is blocking middle seats through April-The blocking of middle seats will provide you with extra comfort and *space* when flying economy.
4. Build in extra time- Don't expect to breeze through the airport. It takes more time to social distance during baggage drop off and security checks. Minimize the time you spend in security as well, and remember to use your hand sanitizer afterward.
5. Fly during the week and early in the morning-Flying Friday-Sunday will be the busiest days and you will have the most trouble keeping your distance from people. Flying during the week will lead to fewer full flights and airports alike.
6. Fly in and out of smaller airports if possible-Having flown from LAX multiple times during the pandemic I can tell you that this one is extremely important. The Phoenix airport had THOUSANDS of people EVERYWHERE when I flew and those people were not socially distant. Smaller airports (even the Indianapolis airport) will allow you to spread out and not be overwhelmed with potential COVID exposures.
7. Double up your face masks/shield-I typically use both a surgical mask like thisas well as a plastic face shield. Face shields work well when you have to take your mask off to eat or drink and don’t want to be exposed to other’s germs. If face shields aren’t your thing consider double masking and using a mask chain like this. Be sure to keep spare masks, if you drop your mask its a goner the 5-second rule does not apply here. Sometimes I even like to wear sunglasses or regular glasses to avoid touching my face and to add an extra layer of protection
8. Bring hand sanitizer/disinfectant wipes-I may be the crazy lady on the plane wiping down her seat and every possible surface but, I have yet to get COVID so better to look crazy and risk it. When I arrive at my seat I typically use these Lysol Wipes and give my seat, the arm rests and tray table a good wipe down. These wipes are also great for wiping down your bag after security. You can never have too many travel sized hand sanitizers *trust me*. Look for labels with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.
9. Bring snacks-While some airports have restaurants open to minimize risk I recommend packing your own snacks so you don’t have to be exposed to people without their masks on. Also airlines are currently limiting their snack and drink service so best to be prepared!
10. Stay seated the entire flight (if you can)-Getting up during a flight to stretch your legs may sound like a good idea but not right now. Avoiding using the restroom as well. If you absolutely have to be sure to take your hand sanitizer with you.
