The cold and flu season is in full-swing and it seems like it is only a matter of time before you will be the next one down for the count. And when you have to travel, the risks can be even greater. Here are some tips for staying healthy while you travel:

Wash your hands - This is fairly self-explanatory but washing your hands can greatly decrease your chances of catching a bug. When you don't have soap and water nearby, use hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes, which are especially convenient on a plane, train or subway.

Drink bottled water - While many places do have clean tap water, don't risk it! Bring your own bottled water on a plane, to your hotel room, while you are sight-seeing and everywhere in between. Water-borne illnesses can quickly ruin your trip!

Bring your own supplies - Although airlines rarely hand out blankets and pillows anymore, don't risk it if they do! Bring your own travel blanket or shawl and pillow. The last thing you want to do is cuddle up with a blanket someone else has used. Also, pack your own healthy food. Eating fruits, vegetables and proteins will keep your insides happy, and not only will you feel better, but you will save money at those expensive airport restaurants!

Sanitize your space - Those tray tables are not as clean as you would like them to be! Use one of your sanitizing wipes or hand sanitizer to wipe down your arm rest, tray table and earphone buttons. You can even clean off your seat belt. And if you are on a subway, it is better to sit down than to stand because there are more germs lurking on the poles and hand straps than on the seat.

Sleep - Do your best to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night while you are traveling. Sleep deprivation is one way to weaken your immune system. And if you are crossing multiple time zones, try to get in sync with your destination's time by eating and sleeping when they do.

Avoid crowds - Although this may not be as easy as you would like, do your best to steer clear of large crowds, where your chances of catching a passing illness greatly increases.

Hopefully you will survive this cold and flu season without a tissue in sight! What are some of your tips to staying healthy while you travel?