As air travel becomes increasingly routine, experts warn that certain common habits can heighten exposure to bacteria onboard. One major mistake is relying solely on airplane bathrooms for handwashing. Flight attendant Josephine Remo notes that while toilets are cleaned, shared surfaces like door handles are often neglected, leading to potential re-contamination. Another concern is the aircraft's onboard water supply, which has been found to contain over 50 strains of bacteria, prompting researchers like Charles Platkin to advise against drinking coffee and tea made with this water. Lastly, the confined nature of airplane restrooms, combined with limited ventilation, increases contamination risks from high-touch surfaces. Experts recommend using alcohol-based sanitizers and disinfectant wipes frequently during flights to minimize these risks. By making slight adjustments to hygiene practices, passengers can significantly reduce their exposure to bacteria during air travel.