I recently was on an airplane and unintentionally sat down next to a person who was ill. They started coughing shortly after take off and continued to do so for the majority of our flight. . As I dug through my travel bag, I realized that I no longer had a mask in there. The flight attendant was able to provide me one, but it made me wonder why I (and the 100 + other passengers) had to mask up instead of the person who was ill. I started looking into social etiquette regarding traveling when sick and here is what I found;
Avoid travel if contagious: Experts emphasize that if you have flu-like symptoms, fever, or a confirmed infection (COVID, flu, RSV), postponing travel is the most responsible choice.
Mask use: Wearing a mask is considered a baseline courtesy when coughing or sneezing, especially in enclosed spaces like airplanes, trains and busses.
Cough etiquette: Covering coughs with tissues or elbows, disposing of tissues properly, and sanitizing hands afterward are essential.
Self-awareness: If symptoms develop mid-journey, travelers should minimize exposure by limiting conversation, keeping distance when possible, and notifying staff if severe.
Heightened awareness: The pandemic reshaped norms—what once was tolerated (coughing openly) is now seen as inconsiderate. Etiquette guides stress that personal responsibility for illness management is part of community care.
Shared burden: While individuals can’t always control when illness strikes, the expectation is to mitigate risk for others. This includes proactive measures like carrying masks, hand sanitizer, and being transparent about symptoms.
Cultural shift: Surveys show that many travelers now expect sick passengers to mask up, and some even feel empowered to politely request it.
Check with the airline: If you have proof you tested positive for Covid or another contagious illness, you may be able to change your flight without significant penalty, check with your airline.
Practical Takeaways
Pack a mask in your carry-on, even if mandates are lifted.
Use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces.
Politely advocate for yourself—asking staff for masks or requesting a seat change is acceptable.
If you’re sick, own the responsibility: mask up, limit exposure, and consider rescheduling if possible. Some airlines allow changes with proof of positive Covid test or Dr's note.
Sources: CDC travel health guidance, POPSUGAR’s updated sickness etiquette rulesPOPSUGAR, AARP’s post-pandemic travel dos and don’ts.
If we all work together and do our part to contain germs, we can all have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season~