Travel expert shares the dirtiest parts of a plane and how passengers just can't avoid touching it

From hotel room service and poolside lounging to trying new cuisines and seeing the sights - it's clear there's a whole lot to look forward to when it comes to a holiday.

However, as I'm sure many of us would agree, dealing with the chaos of the airport and the faff of a plane is definitely the last thing any of us want to do.

Well, to make matters worse, one travel expert has revealed the dirtiest part of a plane and how passengers just can't seem to avoid touching it.

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Ski Vertigo, a travel tour operator, shared that one of the least hygienic places on board are the tray tables.

The team warned: "These surfaces see a variety of uses during flights, from food consumption to being a resting spot for personal items and electronic devices.

"Given their multifunctional use and the fact that cleaning crews often have limited time between flights, tray tables may not receive a thorough cleaning, leading to a significant build-up of bacteria and viruses.

"This makes them a prime location for the transmission of illnesses."

Grim.

OK, so now we've got that knowledge - how can we best minimise our contact with germs when on a plane?

Well, a flight attendant who spoke to Ski Vertigo, explained: "Awareness and preparation are your best allies against germs on a plane.

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"Beyond the basic measures, consider the timing of your bathroom visits; early in the flight or right after cleaning, when fewer germs are present, can make a significant difference."

They added that, if you must use the seat-back pocket, then you should consider lining it with a disposable bag for your items.

"This not only keeps your belongings clean but also simplifies cleanup and minimises your contact with potential contaminants," the attendant continued.

They went on: "For longer flights, consider packing a small 'hygiene kit' that includes face masks, hand sanitiser, disinfectant wipes, and even a spare set of clothes in your carry-on.

"Changing clothes after a long flight can help you feel refreshed and reduce the likelihood of transferring germs from the plane to your final destination."

The flight attendant rounded off: "By implementing and understanding these health measures, you can turn your flying experience into a journey that prioritises well-being instead of being exposed to an environment that is full of germs."

Well, I'll definitely be keeping all that in mind next time I jet off...

Topics: Travel, Health, Plane Etiquette

Rhiannon Ingle

Rhiannon Ingle is a Journalist at LADbible Group. She graduated from the University of Manchester in 2021 in English Literature. Alongside her studies, she was the Lifestyle Editor of The Mancunian, the largest student newspaper in the United Kingdom. Her favourite topics to write about include sex and relationships, bizarre lifestyle trends and all things travel.