When traveling, whether on a crowded plane, bustling airport, or untidy hotel room, we often encounter numerous unhygienic spots. Such is the nature of being on the go.
Holidaymakers may unknowingly engage in habits that are surprisingly grimy, such as frequently using a common item in hotel rooms that can be dirtier than a toilet seat.
The travel experts at Quotezone.co.uk have identified five high-risk areas that germ-conscious travelers should be wary of when embarking on a holiday. These spots are likely to prompt a fear-induced reach for antibacterial wipes.
One often-overlooked item is the remote control in hotel rooms. While we may clean remotes in our living rooms, the same care may not be taken by hotel housekeeping staff, making it one of the most contaminated items in a hotel room, potentially dirtier than a toilet seat.
A survey of 1,000 participants revealed that nearly 17% of Brits never sanitize the remote control before using it, leaving behind germs from previous guests.
Upon arriving at your accommodation, it’s common to place your suitcase on the bed to start unpacking. However, considering the journey your luggage has been on—from your home, through airports, baggage holds, and city streets—it’s important to be mindful of the germs it may carry. Consider using a luggage rack or placing your suitcase on the floor instead.
Planes, known for their lack of hygiene, present various challenges. Tray tables, for instance, often receive only a quick wipe-down due to the rapid turnaround between passengers. Surprisingly, the seat pocket can be one of the dirtiest areas on a plane, yet passengers tend to store personal items there, despite the potential for uncleanliness.
While vacationing in sunny destinations may evoke a sense of carefree relaxation, it’s essential to be cautious when walking barefoot in high-traffic areas to avoid picking up bacteria from other travelers’ shoes. Consider wearing flip flops for added protection.
British passport holders traveling through the EU will encounter more touchscreens due to the new Entry/Exit System (EES) requirements. However, with 10% of respondents admitting to not sanitizing their hands after using touchscreens or fingerprint scanners, the risk of germ transmission at airports may be heightened.
Helen Rolph, a travel insurance specialist at Quotezone.co.uk, emphasizes the importance of adopting additional hygiene measures while traveling to stay healthy. Regular handwashing, sanitizing shared surfaces, and having comprehensive travel insurance coverage are essential steps to safeguarding your trip against unforeseen illnesses.
For those wishing to share their travel stories, reach out to us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
