Travel can be a tricky time to stay hydrated for so many reasons. First, flying is particularly drying. Then, we may also be too busy and distracted to drink enough water or perhaps clean water is hard to come by. Lastly, we may be indulging in more coffee and alcohol than usual which can also affect our hydration levels.

travel hydration

How to know if you’re dehydrated

They say if you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated and should act asap. But are there other telltale signs you’ve been neglecting hydrating? According to an article on Today.com, there are a couple of ways to know:

  • Increased thirst and a dry or sticky mouth.
  • Signs of fatigue, confusion or anger.
  • Dry eyes or blurred vision.
  • Headaches or disorientation. 
  • Muscle cramps.
  • Lack of sweat. 
  • Dark urine. 
  • Fever.
  • Dry and wrinkly skin.

Drinking enough water while travelling

If you’re in a hot place or if you’ve been particularly physically active, it’s important to hydrate even more than the recommended amount which is 2.7 litres of water a day (about 11.4 cups) for women, and for men, 3.7 litres (15 cups). You can even get a smart water bottle to track how much you drink in a day.

If possible, bring your own full water bottle onto the plane so you don’t have to rely on the plane water which is usually stored in containers which don’t get cleaned very often. Avoid coffee and alcohol for even better results.

Straight water is always a good idea but you can also boost your hydration with an electrolyte drink, add a powder to your water, or try something like Liquid IV.

staying hydrated while you travel
Liquid IV is a neat way to pack even more hydration into your water.

Keeping your skin hydrated

The Aerospace Medical Association lists a ton of things that can happen to you during air travel and dehydration is a big one. Apart from drinking a ton of water, moisturising your skin during travel can help as well. You can wear hydrating creams, serums, and bring a face mist to keep the outer layer hydrated as well as the inside. Your lips can also use hydration, so be generous with a thick lip balm. View my beauty enthusiast’s guide to packing cosmetics.

keeping your skin and eyes hydrated while you travel

Keeping your eyes and nose hydrated

If you wear contact lenses, you probably already use eye drops on the regular, but everyone should have some handy for travel. Your eyes can get super dry without you noticing and when you do, it’s beyond annoying. Keep a tiny vial of moisturising eyedrops handy for these situations.

Likewise, if you are prone to nosebleeds, sinus infections, or colds, keeping your sinus’ hydrated and clean can make a big difference. With all the germs we breathe in, it’s never a bad idea to take precautions. Get a good nasal spray to keep everything hydrated and clear while you travel.

Happy travels and stay hydrated! xox

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