How To Avoid Getting Sick on a Plane - And What Your International Health Insurance Plan Does (and Doesn’t) Cover - One World Cover

How To Avoid Getting Sick on a Plane – And What Your International Health Insurance Plan Does (and Doesn’t) Cover

When you live and work abroad, air travel becomes routine – sometimes monthly, sometimes weekly. But moving through crowded airports, dry cabins, new climates, and different seasons makes expats particularly vulnerable to catching colds and flu while travelling.

Here’s how to meaningfully reduce your risk of getting sick on planes, and what expats should know about vaccine coverage and insurance.

Why Expats Get Sick More Easily When Travelling

You’re often flying between different climates and flu seasons.
You’re exposed to more passengers, more often, including in airports and transit hubs.
Long-haul flights mean dry air, disrupted sleep, and lower immunity for 24-48 hours.
Business travel and relocations often create higher stress, weakening immune defences.
Small precautions can make a very big difference.

Practical Ways To Avoid Getting Sick When Flying

Get your flu shot before peak travel periods

For expats, the flu season you face depends on where you live and where you’re going. Vaccination remains the most effective protection – especially if you fly internationally or live in regions with dense urban centres.

Most international health insurance plans cover annual flu vaccinations under preventive care.

Hydrate aggressively

Cabin air is extremely dry, and dehydration makes you more prone to infections. Drink water throughout the flight and reduce alcohol/caffeine the day before and during travel.

Keep your immediate area clean

Wipe down high-touch surfaces – tray table, seatbelt buckle, armrests, screen – especially before eating. For frequent travellers, this is one of the simplest, highest-impact habits.

Wash or sanitize hands routinely

Airports and airplanes mean contact with thousands of surfaces and people. Clean hands before meals, after touching shared surfaces, and after using the lavatory.

Protect your immune system before and after the flight

For expats, travel days often coincide with work deadlines, family visits, and school breaks. Prioritising sleep, nutrition, and rest in the days around travel makes a noticeable difference.

What Expats Should Know About Their Health Insurance Cover

Flu shots are typically covered

Most international medical plans include annual flu vaccinations.. If unsure, check with your broker or insurer – but in most cases, it’s included.

Supplements are not covered unless medically prescribed

A common misconception: immune-boosting vitamins, probiotics, and herbal supplements are almost never reimbursed unless a doctor prescribes them for a diagnosed condition. Even high-end plans treat these as personal choices.

Telemedicine can help you avoid unnecessary clinic visits

If you develop mild symptoms after travel, many expat health plans include 24/7 telemedicine – a convenient way to get medical advice without sitting in a waiting room.

Staying healthy helps keep premiums stable

For expat employers, fewer flu-related visits and claims means lower medical inflation over time. Prevention is a win for both individuals and organisations.

One World Cover’s Advice for Globally Mobile Employees and Families

Get vaccinated early – especially before holiday travel windows and seasonal transitions.
Build a small “travel health kit”: wipes, sanitiser, electrolytes, mask (if needed), and tissues.
Avoid buying supplements expecting reimbursement – they rarely qualify.
Use your telehealth benefit if you feel unwell after a flight.
Review your preventive-care benefits each year so you know exactly what’s covered.

Good health on the road isn’t about luck – it’s about small, repeatable habits that lower your risk significantly.

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To learn more please get in touch: [email protected] or click here to contact us.

Michael – Customer Experience Director

Michael is One World Cover’s Customer Experience Director and for the last 15+ years his expertise has been instrumental in assisting hundreds of companies across Asia foster a healthier environment for their staff, while also ensuring that employers can offer exceptional health insurance benefits without compromising on financial sustainability. Michael’s approach is distinguished by his empathy, warmth, and genuine care.