Prevent exposure to H1N1 virus (formerly know as the Swine Flu) the next time you travel by taking some simple precautionary steps. The following swine flu travel tips offer some common sense advice to prevent exposure to germs and the subsequent spread of viruses including the swine flu.

Packing Smart - The following items should be added to your carry-on and checked (or shipped) luggage when traveling to regions where there is a heighten risk of contracting disease.

1.  Hand Sanitizer - For proper protection select a sanitizer with 60%+ alcohol content which is the minimum requirement for killing most germs and viruses. Recommended Hand Sanitizer for flu virus.
   
2.  Face Masks - Only N95-rated medical respirators that meet OSHA guidelines and CDC requirements will protect you from germs and viruses but even the best mask is only effective if properly used. Recommended face mask for flu virus protection.
   
3.  Disinfectant Wipes - Wipes allow you to clean surfaces such as your cell phone or public spaces such as the seat back tray on an airplane and bathroom fixtures. Disinfectant Wipes with 60%+ alcohol content work best. Recommended Disinfectant Wipes for flu virus.
   
4.  Tamiflu - If you are traveling to a heavily infected area or a third world country with high risk of dangerous flu viruses such as bird flu and swine flue, you may want to contact your physician to see if they can provide you with a prescription for Timiflu (prescription only, see your doctor for details).

Avoid Close Contact - One of the most common ways which airborne pathogens such as the swine flue virus can spread is in large crowds of people. The CDC recommends that people maintain 3ft - 6ft of space to prevent the spread of airborne viruses. Large crowds make it nearly impossible to keep that sort of distance from other people so the best advice is to avoid large crowds.

1.  Ship Luggage - Travelers spend more than 60 minutes at the airport while the check luggage and wait for it at the baggage carousel. Minimize exposure to crowded areas by shipping your luggage ahead. Prices for shipping luggage start around $50 per bag.
   
2.  Minimize Wait Time - When waiting at an airport it is recommend that you find a place away from crowds to wait and when possible minimize your wait time shipping luggage.

General Tips - Common sense hygiene can play a big role in preventing the spread of germs and making for a seamless travel experience.

1.  Wash Hands - Frequent hand washing can prevent the spread of germs such as the swine flu. Wash thoroughly using soap and warm water for 20 seconds and use your hand towel to turn off the faucet when you're done.
   
2.  Don't Touch - It's unrealistic to avoid touching doorknobs, ATM machines, money, and keyboards but after touching surfaces know to have lots of germs it is advisable that you wash or sanitize your hands. Recommended Hand Sanitizer for flu virus.
   
3.  Eyes, Mouth - Avoid touching your eye and mouth as this is one of the most common ways to "catch" germs that are on your hands. If you need to touch your face, wash your hands first.
   
4.  Cover Up - If you cough or sneeze, cover up so as to avoid the spread of germs.
   
5.  Insurance - Most insurance companies will not provide medivac transportation internationally so it is recommended that you purchase third party coverage through a company such as Global Rescue and it is also advisable to look into travel insurance.