9 Amazon Buys to Help You (and Your Family) Survive Flu Season

The sniffles don't stand a chance

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Flu essentials to help you survive the season.
Amazon/Design for PureWow

When you're sick, the last thing you want to worry about is searching for things that'll bring you comfort. And I’m not just talking about soft tissues or honey-filled cough drops—I mean heated throw blankets for curling up and nasal strips that can help you breathe easier when you’re stuffed up. So with flu and cold season upon us, you might want to get a head start stocking up on them from Amazon.

I sifted through thousands of products—and even tapped my fellow PureWow editors for their recs—and landed on these nine essentials to help you power through flu season like a pro. There's a wearable blanket hoodie ($36; $30) to keep you cozy and a Stanley thermos ($36) to keep your soup or tea hot for up to 24 hours. Trust me, you’ll want to add these to your cart ASAP, whether you’re already feeling under the weather or just want to make sure you're prepared.

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A heated throw blanket can be your best friend when the chills take over. This option—with a flannel top and sherpa backing—offers six heat levels and four timer settings, so you can truly customize your comfort. Plus, you can rest easy knowing it has a 3-hour auto-shutoff for safety if you doze off. On that note, I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to all winter long.

Thanks to its stainless-steel construction, this insulated thermal bottle keeps tea and soup hot for up to 24 hours—a lifesaver when you’re stuck in bed. The leak-resistant lid doubles as an eight-ounce cup, perfect for sipping single servings when you have no appetite. And as if that weren’t enough, the handy handle makes it easy to carry from your sofa to your bed, so you'll never be without your warm liquid of choice.

Staying cozy while you’re sick is easy with this wearable blanket hoodie. It's made of a fuzzy-soft sherpa, and as one reviewer says, “It’s super soft and oversized in all the right places—feels like wearing a cozy cloud.” The giant front pocket is perfect for stashing your phone, cough drops and pack of tissues—aka all your flu essentials. Another shopper notes, “There is a snap on the hood to keep the air from coming in,” so you can stay extra warm all day.

PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint has spoken: These nasal strips are a must-have—whether you’re trying to curb your partner’s loud snoring or open up clogged nostrils. “They look weird, but essentially pull your nose up so air can get through,” she explains. “And as anybody who has spent the night not being able to breathe through her nose can tell you, clear nasal passageways are the greatest gift a person can receive.” I couldn’t agree more, which is why I’m adding this 44-pack to my cart right now.

Want to ward off getting sick in the first place? PureWow Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay recommends stocking up on these Vitamin C-packed crystals. Unlike some other supplements, you can take this formula without water to boost your immune system with B vitamins, zinc, manganese and, of course, a whopping 500 milligrams of vitamin C. Yohay adds, “The powder tastes great and even features a popping sensation reminiscent of everyone’s favorite nostalgic candy.” So, if you’re a fan of Pop Rocks, look no further.

I have a confession: I’m obsessed with Vicks, and I’ve had my eye on this warm mist humidifier for a while. With flu season in full swing, there’s no better time to grab it, IMO. This humidifier fills a room with soothing Vicks VapoSteam—or your favorite essential oils (ahem, I reccomend eucalyptus and peppermint)—to help with congestion. Many reviewers say they use it year-round, including one who notes, “It will help the sinuses, lungs, lips [and] skin from drying out to begin with, which can help one from becoming sick and uncomfortable.” Ahh.

Keeping your feet dry and toasty is essential when you’re under the weather, which is why I can't gatekeep these moisture-wicking (and actually very cute) socks. They have a fuzzy cable-knit construction, and I’m confident that they’re as soft and plush as they look—not to mention comfortable enough to sleep in. And since they come in a pack of three, you’ll always have a fresh pair in rotation.

These shower steamers will transform your bathroom into an aromatherapy oasis with their blend of peppermint and eucalyptus. Just drop one in the tub under the water stream, and your shower will fill with essential oils that, according to customers, ease sinus headaches and help you breathe easier. Kick the cold and feel like you're at a spa—what could be better?

This tea powder is currently a top seller on Amazon and I don't have to wonder why. Elderberry is known for easing cold and flu symptoms, and this stuff is loaded with it. It also contains citric acid, organic blueberry extract and vitamin C—all of which help boost your immune system for a speedier recovery. Each pack includes 30 servings that you can add to hot or cold water, keeping you and your family covered throughout flu season and beyond. (Even better, buyers say it tastes delicious!)



Destinee Scott Editor Bio Pic

Associate Sales and Deals Editor

  • Stays on top of the best sales and deals across the internet
  • Over 3 years of experience in commerce (covering tentpole sales, like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Way Day)
  • Studied Journalism at St. John's University

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