One of the most overlooked aspects of traveling is staying hydrated.

From drinking excessive amounts of caffeine during early morning flights to lessening water intake in order to stay seated on the flight, a lot of people neglect fluids during airtime. 

Here are several reasons why you need to increase your H20 intake. 

Avoid illness

Water flushes out toxins and a lack thereof increases the risk of becoming sick.

When you’re on a flight, you’re surrounded by new people…and all of their germs.

It can be a lot easier to catch a bug on a plane, so drink plenty of water and sanitize your tray table, seat belt, and armrest with an anti-bacterial wipe before you use them. I’m also a fan of using Airborne Immune Support tablets prior to flying.

Low humidity

Because airplanes have significantly lower humidity, not drinking water can greatly increase your chances of becoming dehydrated.

The air available for you to breathe 35,000 feet in the air is relatively dry. Dehydration happens rapidly at high altitudes so water is a necessity for fueling your body. Alcohol consumption at high altitudes can, uh, get you drunk pretty quickly too.

You’ll be uncomfortable

Lack of fluids over a prolonged period of time will cause side effects like dehydration, headaches, dry skin, and dizziness. Planes are already uncomfortable, so don’t make yourself miserable.

You’ll be less alert

Water also allows our bodies to operate at higher energy levels and quicken our processing. Fatigue and exhaustion are somewhat inevitable if you deprive yourself of water on long flights.

Here are the easiest ways to stay hydrated:

Drink water before your flight

Don’t start chugging water bottles in the terminal, but a few days before your flight, try to lessen your caffeine and alcohol intake and focus on getting more fluid so your body is prepared.

Drink water while you fly

Even though no one likes to get up, it is important to continue drinking water throughout your travels. Pass on the Bloody Mary’s and get a cup of water every time you see a flight attendant instead. 

Bring a water bottle

A reusable water bottle will remind you to fill up at the water fountain before your flight, and allow you to take more water on the flight as well. When able, continue to fill it up.

Drink electrolytes

Electrolytes replenish your mineral losses and allow you to make the most of your water intake. Drink a Gatorade the day before you leave or purchase a few electrolyte packets to pour in your drink to stay hydrated. 

With plenty of fluids and a few movies, you’ll be able to make your flight more comfortable.