How much water should I drink while I am flying?

By: Susan Sherren for Couture Trips
Published: 7/10/21 5:41 PM CST

 
HYDRATION

First, let's cover what conditions you will be encountering while your flying to paradise. Without a doubt, you will notice how dry the air in the plane seems. The humidity in-flight can be less than the Sahara Desert at around 15-20 percent. If your flying on the Dreamliner 787 or the Airbus A350 it is closer to 25 percent. So, staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do. It's not a bad idea to hydrate with some fluids while you're waiting to board your flight. You also will want to keep drinking fluids as your flying, especially if your traveling longer than a couple of hours.

​The Aerospace Medical Association recommends approximately 8 oz. for every hour your in-flight. Yes, this will force you to use the restroom a bit, but that is also good because you will be getting out of your seat and moving. One of the highest risk factors for developing a blood clot is immobility. So stretch those legs and use the restroom frequently.
According to the Institute of Altitude Medicine,
"Staying hydrated is important at altitude. In reality, you only need an additional litre to a litre and a half of water at altitude. Too much water is harmful and can dilute your body's sodium level (hyponatremia), causing weakness, confusion, seizures, and coma. A good rule of thumb to assess for hydration is to check your urine. Clear urine indicates adequate hydration; dark urine suggests dehydration and the need to drink more water." 

ALCOHOL, TEA, COFFEE and CAFFEINE

Unfortunately, your in-flight cocktail can contribute to dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic and can signal your body to release more fluids. If your drinking alcohol make sure to drink a bit more water to compensate. Tea, coffee and caffeinated drinks also cause you to lose fluids. 

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION

• feeling thirsty.
• dark yellow and strong-smelling pee.
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded.
• feeling tired.
• a dry mouth, lips and eyes.

These symptoms can masquerade as jet lag, but if you've been drinking enough, it is likely the time zone changes related to flying. This condition is especially noticeable on long international flights.

Make sure to take along a water bottle, preferably a non-plastic one, while your flying. This tip gives you more control over how much liquid you can consume. A collapsible container (25 oz.) is included in our Couture Trips In-Flight Essentials Kit. You can fill this up in the boarding area and be sipping while you're flying along. It comes with a convenient flip-top that eliminates the need for a straw. So drink up and make sure to stay hydrated as your flying to your next great adventure.
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*Information contained in this post does not constitute medical advice, consult with your physician on specific related to your medical conditions and how they may be impacted by flying.

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