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...