As travelers flock to airports eager to begin their vacations, a common ritual for many is grabbing a drink at the airport bar or on the plane. However, experts are cautioning passengers to think twice before indulging in alcohol before or during flights. While having a drink or two might seem like a harmless way to ease travel nerves or kick off a holiday, the negative effects on your body—especially on long-haul flights—can be more serious than you might expect.
Sleep expert Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNextDay, explains that although alcohol initially makes you feel drowsy, it can severely disrupt the quality of your sleep. Many passengers believe that a glass of wine or a beer will help them fall asleep faster while flying. However, Seeley points out that alcohol interferes with the body’s natural sleep cycles, leading to lighter, less restorative sleep. This means that even if you do doze off after drinking, you’re less likely to wake up feeling rested.
Additionally, Seeley emphasizes that alcohol can worsen dehydration, which is already a concern on flights due to the dry, pressurized cabin air. Dehydration not only increases fatigue but can also cause headaches, dry skin, and throat irritation. Drinking water instead of alcohol is a much better choice, helping you stay hydrated and more comfortable throughout your journey.
On top of these concerns, Seeley explains that consuming alcohol at high altitudes can magnify its effects, increasing the likelihood of feeling dizzy or nauseous. Alcohol can also impair your circulation, increasing the risk of swelling in the legs or even deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long flights. Water, on the other hand, promotes healthy blood flow and reduces these risks.
To help travelers get quality rest during flights, Seeley offers several practical tips beyond simply avoiding alcohol. For starters, he recommends taking a 30-minute walk around the airport before boarding. This light exercise can prepare the body for better sleep, as studies show that people who move more during the day tend to sleep more deeply at night.
Seeley also suggests being strategic about where you sit on the plane. Seats located above the engine can provide a consistent white noise that helps mask other sounds and encourages sleep. These areas often experience less turbulence too, offering a smoother, more relaxing ride.
Packing a sleep kit is another recommendation. Essentials include flight socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling, an eye mask to block out cabin lighting, and a supportive neck pillow to prevent stiffness. Noise-canceling headphones, preferably wired, are also advisable since they are less likely to fall out and don’t rely on battery life.
Changing your watch or phone to match the time zone of your destination as soon as you board can also help your body adjust to new sleeping patterns, reducing the impact of jet lag.
Conclusion
Finally, Seeley advises travelers to wear loose, comfortable clothing on flights. Tight outfits can restrict movement and circulation, making it harder to find a relaxing position and increasing the likelihood of discomfort during sleep.
In summary, while it may be tempting to celebrate the start of a trip with a drink, it’s worth considering the impact alcohol can have on your body during air travel. By following expert advice and making simple adjustments, you can improve your chances of arriving at your destination feeling well-rested and ready to enjoy your holiday.
