There are a few well-known factors that might make air travel far more difficult than it has to be. For example, forgetting to bring snacks (these days, airlines may be very tight with their selection), or obtaining a seat in the back row directly next to the bathroom. Some people avoid wearing compression socks.
One issue we don’t consider enough is how easy it is to become dehydrated on an aircraft. And, due to the high cost of bottled water at airports and the generally unpleasant experience of using an airplane restroom, many of us drink less water on planes than usual.
However, avoiding too much water is a mistake, according to Tanya Mezher, a qualified dietician and lead functional medicine practitioner at Malla.
“Airplane conditions are much different than those experienced every day on the ground,” Mezher said. “Air cabins typically circulate cooler, drier air, maintained at lower pressures.
“The relative humidity can be as low as 10-20%, which causes moisture to be lost at higher rates from our respiratory system, skin, eyes, and more. Sitting for long periods of time also redistributes the fluid balance to the lower extremities, changing the blood viscosity and possibly contributing to increased fluid loss.”
So, we all know how easy it is to become dehydrated in the air. But why will this make your trip so much more difficult, and how can you ensure you drink enough water? Everything you need to know is right here.
Why Staying Hydrated During Air Travel Is So Important
According to Mehzer, because our bodies are 55-60% water, we require water to function effectively, and dehydration can induce symptoms such as dizziness, weariness, elevated heart rate (but low blood pressure), or confusion. These aren’t symptoms we want to have at any time, let alone on a plane.
And if you’re already anxious about travel? “Dehydration can make anxiety worse, with negative effects emotionally and mentally,” Mezher said.
“It can also affect digestion and contribute to constipation, which is already a risk with the change of environments and time zones. It’s never fun to land at our destination and feel worse off than when we left.”
Maggie Michalczyk, registered dietitian and founder of Once Upon a Pumpkin, recommends stocking up on electrolytes if you want to stay hydrated without increasing the frequency of your bathroom visits (which is understandable).
“Consider adding electrolyte powders or tablets to your water,” Michalczyk said. “These can replenish essential minerals lost through sweating and help maintain hydration levels without increasing the frequency of bathroom visits. I also like coconut water as an option to help replenish electrolytes.”
She also advised against drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages at the airport or on the plane. These beverages will not only make you pee more frequently, but they will also dehydrate you. You can also consume foods with a high water content.
“Snack on fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, and fruit, which have high water content,” she said. “These foods can supplement your hydration efforts.”
Moisturizing before flying can also be beneficial. “Use a moisturizer or a hydrating mist to keep your skin hydrated while flying.” “This can aid in the prevention of dryness and discomfort,” Michalczyk explained.
Melanie Lieberman, managing editor of global features at The Points Guy, is all about the reusable water bottle if the issue is less about wanting to skip the bathroom and more about the hassle and cost of drinking water at the airport and on the plane.
“It’s ultra-lightweight when it’s empty, and the top easily clips to the outside of my bag, so I can travel easily through the airport with it empty and fill it up once I’m past security,” she said.
