Flying gets you places, but it could also impact how you feel. After all, you're sitting in close quarters with people you don't know for perhaps hours at a time. You may be concerned that the person next to you could have a cold or the flu, something that could keep you from living your best vacation or work trip. These worries have some validity. Remember something important, though. Your actions influence your health far more than someone else's.

If you're ready to book that flight, do it. Just remember to prepare yourself before you go. A few preparation steps could be all you need to remain fit and feel good. The following are some tips to keep you at the top of your game.

1. Add Extra Support

Fortify your body with the nutrients it needs to feel strong and fight off any invaders. While you could take a multivitamin, it's essential to focus on things that specifically maintain the health you have. Vitamin C helps your body fight off infections, so consider taking it to arm yourself well. The Cleveland Clinic recommends eight vitamins, including vitamins D, A, E, as well as iron and zinc.

In addition, a strong gut can assist in supporting your healthy digestive system, so add a beneficial probiotic food supplement to your daily routine. These supplements add beneficial bacteria to your stomach to help maintain a healthy gut flora.

2. Sleep Well Before You Fly

When you close your eyes at night, the body enters a refresh period. Systems rest from the day, recharging to tackle whatever you encounter. This stage includes the immune system, which works hard during daylight hours to keep you feeling good. When you meet unpleasant germs, it defends against them, allowing you to stay on top of your work or fun.

So, if you're concerned about viral exposure on a plane, try to get a good eight hours of slumber before you head to the airport. Several environmental factors could help with making this happen. Turn the temperature down to between 65 and 72 degrees since the body sleeps better with the cold. Make sure all lights are off, including that of the television. Above all, stop electronics or anything stimulating long before bedtime. Wake up that morning ready to conquer the day and take care of anything organisms that could come near you.

3. Focus on Hygiene

No matter where you are, hygiene habits influence your health. If you want to stay strong and energetic, your body should spend less time battling other organisms. Pack some small personal items; they must work with the to keep on hand. Small sanitizer bottles or hand wipes, for instance, are easy to stow in your carry-on bag. Wipe down surfaces frequently. In addition, don't touch your face often. It's easy to let those fingers get distracted. If they pick up germs, they enter through the nose, mouth and eyes. Keep busy with a book or something to look at.

4. Skip the Drinks

During the flight, many people imbibe in a drink or two. After all, there isn't much to do. You might as well enjoy yourself, right? Well, that glass of wine may taste good, but the alcohol could impact your body's immune response, lowering it during the flight. Also, when people drink, they relax, letting down their guard. While you don't want to fret, you don't want to lose control, making choices that don't fit your overall health goals.

Stick to water. You're less likely to have a headache later, and it's better for your overall system, washing away toxins and keeping your systems running smoothly.

This year, don't fear flying. The plane is your ticket to going somewhere new and experiencing something fun. Yes, you can get to your destination and be healthy. It comes down to your actions before and during the flight. Think ahead about what to bring with you and how you plan to behave.