While I'm a frequent traveler, I'm of the "ground" variety, not so much of the "air" type. But when I have flown, I usually wonder what happens to all those itzy bitzy blankets and pillows that are handed out to the passengers. First class passengers get the bigger blankets and pillows, while the other 'classes' get the smaller blankets and pillows, which is fine with me because first class has paid more for their seats than I did. But, I end up wondering how many of those blankets and pillows are recycled or just thrown away? Or worse... reused without washing?

In a world where everyone is concerned about protecting our environment, I am particularly concerned about how we can maintain our comfort and still be practicing our "green" challenges along the way, so I was happy to find that the pillows weren't just thown away.

But since they can be reused a dozen times before someone takes it home or the cleaning crews remove the germ-laden pillows, the thought of burying my face in a pillow and napping on a long flight is much less appealing.

I happened to have been sent an item from a manufacturer that answered my questions about traveling comfortably and healthy, too. The name of the product is called "Jetheads Airplane Pillowcases". These pillowcases are disposable, come in a package of two and can be carried easily in your bag. Just place the pillowcase on the airplane pillow and enjoy your flight. No more worries about children getting sick or even yourself for that matter!

These pillowcases are made of a disposable polypropylene fabric and can be washed up to 10 times before having to be discarded. They sell for $6.95 for a package of two and are easy to discard. This product is an excellent idea for the consumer that is very much concerned about maintaining the health of their family and themselves while traveling, whether it is by plane, train, bus or in their own car.

I find the item to be a unique idea because of the health benefits it offers to those that travel. I am a little concerned that is an item that is disposable after 10 uses, adding to our pollution problem already present on this earth. Maybe bringing a pillowcase on the trip and washing it once at home is an alternative, but that will be left up to the consumer.

For more information on this product and other products offered by "One Step Ahead", the manufacturer, please visit their website at: www.onstepahead.com.

Enjoy the trip!

About the author, Linda Eagleson: Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state.