Why I Still Travel With Masks in 2026

Travel has never been safer, easier, or more accessible than it is today. Yet at the same time, travellers are constantly hearing about the latest health concern somewhere in the world.

In recent months alone, we've seen headlines about hantavirus outbreaks, Ebola concerns in parts of Africa, measles cases in various countries, seasonal influenza surges, and ongoing discussions about respiratory illnesses on aircraft and cruise ships.

Despite all of that, I continue to travel frequently and enthusiastically.

I cruise. I fly internationally. I visit airports, hotels, museums, trains, buses, and crowded tourist attractions.

But there is one travel habit that I adopted several years ago and have never abandoned:

I always travel with masks.

Not because I am fearful of travelling.

Not because I expect something bad to happen.

And certainly not because I think people should avoid travel.

I carry masks because they are one of the simplest, lightest, and least expensive travel tools I can pack.

I am sure that some people think I am crazy… But, I don't care.  Masks are always with me.

Masks Have Become Part of My Standard Travel Kit

Today, I always keep several masks in my sling bag.

That means they are immediately available if I feel the need to use one at a moment's notice.

I also carry additional masks in my carry-on luggage so I have enough for longer journeys, flights, airports, cruise terminals, trains, or unexpected situations.

Most of the time they stay in the bag and never get used.

But when I need one, I'm glad it's there.

When Do I Put On A Mask?

There isn't a specific rule.

Sometimes it's because I notice several people around me coughing heavily in an airport gate area. Sometimes it's because the passenger beside me on an aircraft appears visibly ill.  Sometimes it's because a flight is completely full and I'm sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of other travellers for many hours.  Sometimes it's because I'm feeling slightly run down myself and don't want to pick up something that could impact my vacation.

The beauty of carrying masks is that the decision can be made in seconds.  I don't need to search for a pharmacy.  I don't need to pay airport prices.  I simply reach into my bag and put one on.

Travel Exposes Us To More People Than Everyday Life

One reality of travel is that we often encounter more people in a few days than we might normally see in weeks.

Consider a typical international trip.  You may encounter people from dozens of countries in airports.  You board aircraft carrying hundreds of passengers.  You use buses, trains, taxis, ferries, and cruise ships.  You visit restaurants, attractions, museums, and public spaces.

Before any international trip, I encourage travellers to think about more than just packing clothes and passports. In fact, 15 Things Travellers Forget Before International Flights highlights many of the small details that can make a big difference to your travel experience.

Most travellers will never experience any health issues during their trip.  However, the sheer number of interactions naturally increases exposure to whatever viruses or illnesses may be circulating.

That's simply part of travelling.

Travel Is Still Worth It

It's important not to let headlines discourage you from exploring the world.  Every year there are reports about outbreaks somewhere.  Most remain localized and never affect the vast majority of travellers.  Travel remains one of the most rewarding experiences available.  You can explore ancient civilizations, experience different cultures, meet fascinating people, and create memories that last a lifetime.

The goal is not to avoid travel.

The goal is to travel smart.

One quick note about the most recent (May 2026) Hantavirus outbreak on a Dutch-Flagged cruise ship.  Health officials now agree and believe that a Dutch couple contracted the Hantavirus BEFORE boarding the cruise ship.  Right after the Hantavirus news struck, there were multiple social medial reels that kept popping up on my feed about Norovirus on Cruise Ships and how because of this you should not cruise.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) statistics estimate that cruise ships account for only about 1% of all Norovirus outbreaks reported globally.  Why am I highlighting this?  News media and now social media “influencers” hype these things up to look worse than they are - in my opinion.  

Part of travelling smart is setting yourself up for success from the very beginning of your journey. That's one reason I'm a strong believer that Why Cruise Travellers Should Never Fly In The Same Day As Their Cruise remains one of the most important pieces of advice I can give clients. Reducing stress, delays, and exhaustion helps keep you healthier throughout your trip.

Other Simple Health Precautions I Take

Masks are only one part of my travel routine.

I also:

• Wash my hands frequently.

• Carry hand sanitizer.

• Stay current with recommended vaccinations.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

• Monitor government travel advisories when appropriate.

• Get adequate rest before long journeys.

• Stay hydrated during flights.

None of these precautions are complicated.

Together, however, they help reduce risk and make travelling more enjoyable.

Travel insurance is another area that many travellers misunderstand. Before purchasing coverage, I strongly recommend reading What Travel Insurance Does and Does Not Cover so you understand exactly what protection you have before you leave home.

My Advice To Fellow Travellers

You don't need to be worried about every health headline you read.  But you should be prepared.

A few masks weigh almost nothing, take up virtually no space, and cost very little.

Whether you ever use them or not, they provide flexibility and peace of mind when travelling through airports, aircraft cabins, cruise terminals, and other crowded environments.

This is especially true if you're planning a more remote journey such as an Arctic or Antarctic voyage, where preparation becomes even more important. 

As for me?

My passport, phone charger, travel insurance documents, and a supply of masks will continue travelling together wherever I go.

Because some travel habits are simply too easy and too practical to leave behind.

I am…

Ken Graham - Travel Advisor - Cruise Enthusiast and Specialist