Travel Like a Healthy Rock Star: DO Drink the Water

Hydration.  This is not a new concept and most people know this is important regardless of how frequently you travel.  What you don't realize is how the change in climate, dryness of an airplane & hotel room, or even the increase in activity can affect your body.  Start by drinking plenty of water 24-48 hours prior to travel just like a marathoner will start hydrating days before a race.   You will feel refreshed and hydrated without having to hit the restroom 3 times during your flight or on the road. Even if you are not the type of person to religiously carry water with you in your home life, you should consider adopting this when you travel.  While you cannot carry a full bottle of water with you through security - you can certainly carry an empty one.  Many airports now have filtered water where they encourage you to fill up your water bottle.  Do it - you never know how long you will be on the plane or when you will get a chance to  have a good drink of agua. Even if you have to spend the $3-$5 for a bottle while waiting, just carry it with you and refill it.  When checking into your hotel, ask for a couple complimentary bottles of water instead of the fresh baked cookie.  Again - even if you don't feel thirsty, your body is likely under far more stress than normal and the thirst will hit you later.  The added benefit of avoiding the sugar in the cookie will help reduce or combat inflammation in your body.  For me, travel tends to include a lot of dining out (where I don't necessarily know the ingredients in the food) and inevitably a few cocktails with co workers and clients.  Bottom line is that water will continue to be important throughout your trip and your focus on hydration should not be isolated to your day of departure.  Continue to carry your water and drink, drink, drink water throughout your trip.  This will help you to cleanse your system and ensure you return to your family as healthy and invigorated as when you left.