If your flight is booked, there is one important thing you need to make the air as painless as possible. Several studies have shown that the air cabin environment has a significant effect on the balance and retention of fluids in the body, resulting in loss of 1.5 to 2 liters of water on flights that average over 10 hours.
Matthew Kelly, founder of SpaceGoods, shared his top tips on how to help you stay hydrated on your flight – and how to recognize signs of dehydration before they become dangerous. This can lead to dehydration, especially if essential salts and minerals are depleted. This can cause troublesome side effects such as headaches, exercise sickness, fatigue, and dry throat and mouth.
Matthew said: “Most people aim to sleep to help them spend time on their flights, but no matter how small your seats are, one of the best ways to stay comfortable is to stay hydrated.
“A practical way to do this is to carry reusable water bottles. Most airlines can bring on board, but they must be empty before passing through security. Luckily, most airports offer free water refill stations, allowing you to refill the bottles after security and refill before boarding your flight.”
Another smart way to maintain hydration is to use electrolyte powders. Most, if not all, contain sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium. All of these help regulate the fluid balance of the cells.
In a dry cabin environment, normal water may not be sufficient if it is already slightly dehydrated. Electrolytes help the body absorb and retain liquids more efficiently.
Matthew said: “Unlike liquids, electrolyte powders are not confiscated for security and make them travel-friendly as long as they seal airline requirements.”
Matthew's third tip to make flight a bit more comfortable is the fog on the face. These can bring comfort to dry, tight skin during air travel.
Beauty brands offer travel sized Mrs that fit in their baggage. Alternatively, use a small spray bottle to fill it with water at the airport and prepare a DIY facial Mr.
It is also wise to avoid caffeine and alcohol. Both act as diuretics and increase fluid loss.
If you are traveling with stags or hens, drinking at an airport or on a boat, or simply want to relieve the anxiety of flying and have a drink, balance it with an equal or large amount of water to keep it hydrated and try to eat hydrating fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, oranges, watermelons and other hydrating fruits and vegetables.