The secret to staying hydrated when traveling for a complete trip

Traveling is a wonderful experience, but constant movement, changes in living environment and living habits can make our bodies susceptible to dehydration. Dehydration not only causes unpleasant symptoms such as dry mouth and fatigue, but also affects overall health. So how to stay hydrated when traveling? This article will provide you with useful information to have a healthy and energetic trip.

1. Why do we easily get dehydrated when traveling?

Traveling brings great experiences, but it also means that our bodies are exposed to many factors that can lead to dehydration. This not only affects your health but also reduces enjoyment during the trip. Understanding the causes of dehydration will help you take effective preventive measures.

Long journey on plane

Airplanes are one of the environments most likely to cause dehydration. Humidity in airplane cabins is usually very low, about 10-20%, compared to the normal level of 30-60%. This causes the body to lose water quickly through breathing and sweat. In addition, changes in air pressure in the cabin can also cause more dehydration.

Climate change

Traveling to areas with different climates, especially arid or hot and humid places, also increases the risk of dehydration. The body needs time to adapt to the new environment, and in the process, you may lose more water than usual. Hot climates cause the body to sweat more, while in cold climates, you may not feel dehydration but it still happens.

Forget to add water to your body

When traveling, we often get caught up in exciting activities and easily forget to replenish water regularly. This is especially true when participating in sightseeing tours, climbing mountains, or simply enjoying new spaces. Not drinking enough water over a long period of time can lead to dehydration, which you may not notice right away.

Travel a lot by road

Long journeys by bus, train, or car also cause the body to become dehydrated. Sitting for long periods in closed, poorly ventilated spaces and frequently moving at high speeds causes fatigue and dehydration. In addition, the difference in temperature inside the car and outdoors is also a factor that contributes to dehydration.

2. Signs of dehydration while traveling

Understanding the signs of dehydration is the key to being able to treat it promptly and avoid serious complications. Here are some common signs:

• Dry mouth, thirst: This is the first and most obvious sign of dehydration.

• Fatigue and loss of appetite: Lack of water in the body will reduce energy and make you feel tired and lose appetite.

• Headache, dizziness: Dehydration can cause constriction of brain blood vessels, leading to headaches and dizziness.

• Urinating less, dark urine: Dark urine is a sign that the body is lacking water.

• Dry, wrinkled skin: Skin is the body's largest organ and dehydration will cause the skin to become dry and wrinkled.

3. How to stay hydrated when traveling?

Drink water regularly throughout the trip

The first and most important tip is to always carry a bottle of water with you. Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Drinking water in small sips and often will help the body absorb it better. Avoid drinking large amounts of water at one time as this can increase the risk of dehydration through excretion.

Supplement water through food

Not only drinking water, you can also replenish water through foods that contain a lot of water such as watermelon, cucumber, orange, or soup. These foods not only provide water but also important nutrients, helping your body stay healthy throughout the trip.

Limit alcoholic beverages

Alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine have a diuretic effect, increasing the amount of water your body excretes. Therefore, if you do not want to become dehydrated, you should limit or completely avoid these drinks during your trip. Instead, choose non-alcoholic drinks, preferably water or fresh fruit juice.

Adjust your living habits with each trip

Each tourist destination has different weather and climate conditions. Therefore, adjusting living habits to suit each destination is essential. If you go to a hot climate, try to avoid strenuous activity in the middle of the day and always carry water. If you go to a cold place, dress warmly and don't forget to drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.

Staying hydrated when traveling is important so you can enjoy a full and safe trip. Understanding the factors that cause dehydration, promptly recognizing the signs and taking effective preventive measures will help you maintain health and energy throughout your journey. Don't forget that hydration is necessary and must be maintained continuously, especially when you move and constantly change environments.