Flu season is tough on our budgets. A sick parent or kid means time off work and away from school to recover. All extracurricular activities are suspended. Most of us are clear about the germ battle grounds but one of most overlooked spaces are in our cars.

A germ proof car is virtual impossible but there are things we can do to prevent and kill the flu the virus. Taking the car to the local carwash for a complete detail is one solution. Or you can hang on the $150 price tag of the detail service and splurge on a gift for yourself. Go on, be a little indulgent hang on to the cash and upgrade your cell phone. Try these six simple and inexpensive things as another option.

1. Wipe. Antibacterial wipes are my best weapons. I prefer Lysol wipes because they have proven track record of killing the flu virus. Use them to wipe your radio controls, the stirring wheel, gear control, door knobs and your clicker (keyless remote assess device).

2. Catch. Sneeze into soft yet sturdy tissues and keep them handy. I prefer ones with lotion because they do not scratch my nose. Opt for keeping them close, in the side door pocket or center console. Remember to keep one or two plastic bags handy. The ones the grocery store uses to pack your food make the perfect second use trash bag.

3. Squirt. Liquid gel germ fighters easily coat both divas and kids hands. Just one squirt from the convenient purse size or lotion size bottle may fit comfortably in your glove compartment or middle console. It is a good alternative for cleaning hands before and after snacking in the car. I like to use it after pumping gas.


4. Hydrate. Keep at least 2 bottles of water in your car and consider taking powdered vitamins. The combination may offer extra support for your immune system. I've enjoyed the extra boost after spending 8 or more hours in close quarters with some co-workers showing flu-like symptoms. The kid version is available in tasty power vitamin too and it acts as an extra line of defense after their busy school days.

5. Laugh. Create a CD or download your favorite comedians. Listen for at least 15 minutes. Laughter is a great stress reliever and a good way to start and end your commute.

6. Get vaccinated. These aren’t my words of advice. The Center for Disease control believes this is one of the top ways to fight off sickness during the cold and flu season.