Let’s face it: none of us are drinking enough water—whether staying home or on-the-go. I recently read that 75% of the US population is chronically dehydrated. While many of us have our tried-and-true routines that help us stick to our hydration routine at home, when we get flying, that routine often flies out the window.
So let’s look at why hydration matters even more while you’re traveling than at home, and we’ll share some practical tips to ensure you stay refreshed and healthy while you’re jetsetting and jetsweating!
Why Staying Hydrated Matters
Beat Travel Fatigue
Traveling often involves long flights, long stretches in the car, generally hectic schedules, and, let’s face it, stress, all which drain your batteries. Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of travel fatigue, leaving you feeling more exhausted, jet-lagged, and less likely to enjoy your trip. (And that’s not what we’re about here.)
Maintain Energy Levels
When you’re exploring new places or rushing to catch planes, trains, or automobiles, your body needs extra energy to keep up. Proper hydration helps maintain your energy levels, ensuring you have the stamina to make the most of your adventures.
Cope with Climate Changes
Different destinations come with various climates that might differ significantly from what that which you’re accustomed, and even getting there is taxing on your body. You’re looking at huge swings in not only temperature, but also humidity and elevation. (Recirculated air in airplanes is kept at 20% humidity!) Staying well hydrated can help your body adapt to new, albeit temporary, environments.
Boost Your Immune System
Traveling often exposes you to various germs and unfamiliar bacteria. And while we’ve mostly gotten past the C-word, most of us gave up the masks immediately. But staying hydrated supports your immune system, making you more resilient to potential illnesses during your journey.
Preemptively Prevent Discomfort
Dehydration can lead to a range of health problems, from a small headaches or slight dizziness to more severe issues like kidney stones or urinary tract infections. (Yikes!) Taking care of your body’s hydration needs at home or in transit reduces the risk of these complications.
Make Boozing In-Flight Take Less of a Toll
While many of us (including our Co-Founder, Susie) enjoy a little nip on a flight, drinking alcohol at elevation (in a plane or just a higher elevation city) exacerbates dehydration. So be sure to have an extra cup or two of water while enjoy your #30000ftcocktails!
Practical Tips for Staying Hydrated
Carry a Water Bottle
Having a water bottle with you at all times is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay hydrated while traveling. (We know it’s obvious, but we had to say it.) We, of course, suggest investing in a reliable reusable water bottle. Look for one with a secure lid to avoid spills and leaks, and extra points if you can snag one that filters the water for you, like those from LifeStraw!
Drink Before You Feel Thirsty
Thirst is a late indicator of dehydration. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty; drink water throughout the day to maintain optimal hydration levels.
Monitor Your Water Intake & Hydration Level
With busy travel itineraries, it’s easy to forget about drinking water. Keep track of how much water you’re drinking each day, especially in hotter climates. Tracking your intake will help you be sure that you’re meeting your hydration goals, and drinking progressively throughout the day instead of once or twice benefits your intake’s efficacy. If you need reminders, set your phone or smartwatch to prompt you to take sips regularly. You can also invest in a hydration monitor (some fitness trackers offer this), track your intake on your fitness app, or utilize one of the water bottles that remind you to take drinks regularly. (Bottles from HidrateSpark glow to remind you to drink, or you can get an Ulla Smart Light to add to any bottle that remind you to drink.)
Limit Your Caffeine, Alcohol, & Sugary Drinks
Caffeine, alcohol, and drinks that are high in sugar can potentially further dehydrate your body. (Rude.) If you MUST consume these beverages (we don’t judge, cheers!), do so in moderation and balance them with extra water. (This is specially important if you’re consuming them on a plane or at elevation.)
Pack Electrolyte Supplements & Hydrating Snacks
Our team swears by hydration packets, especially those with electrolytes to help our bodies , and our office favorite lately has been Advocare’s Rehydrate. It comes in convenient stick packs for traveling and NINE different flavors to keep things interesting. (Berry Lemon Ice and Lemon Raspberry are killer!)
If you’re peckish, double team hunger and dehydration with fruits and vegetables with high water content like watermelon, cucumber, or oranges.
We all know that staying hydrated when traveling is not just a good idea; it’s essential for your overall wellbeing and enjoyment of the journey. By prioritizing your hydration needs, you’ll be even more ready and equipped to tackle the challenges of travel and workouts and create lasting memories at your destinations.
Bon voyage, and drink up!
