The 10 Best Ways To Hydrate When You Travel

Traveling is synonymous with adventure, relaxation, and memories in the making. From sunbathing on a sandy beach to exploring a bustling city, staying hydrated is essential! While the excitement of vacation might distract us from our daily habits, it's important to remember to maintain some of them, like eating right and drinking lots of water to stay adequately hydrated.

Beyond merely quenching your thirst, proper hydration plays a pivotal role in ensuring our bodies function at their peak and that you and your family can fully enjoy a well-deserved vacation without unexpected interruptions!

The 10 Best Ways To Hydrate When You Travel

So, whether you’re planning a sunny beach trip or a grand Vegas vacation, as you prepare for your next adventure don’t forget to prepare for the environment that you’re going to be in! But don’t worry, we’re here here to help. Dive into the science behind 10 of the best ways to stay hydrated when you travel on vacation.

1 | Drink Water | This may seem obvious, but nothing beats plain old water when it comes to staying hydrated. Our bodies are composed of about 60% water. This vital liquid aids in digestion, absorption, circulation, nutrient transportation, and body temperature regulation. When we lose more fluids than we consume, we become dehydrated, which can lead to headaches, dizziness, fatigue, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and in more severe cases, fainting or worse.

Coconut water is another tasty way to hydrate. Rich in natural electrolytes such as potassium, it can be an excellent way to recharge after a night out or a day in the sun.

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2 | Avoid Salty Snacks & Sugary Drinks | One of the best parts of a vacation is not just experiencing new places and activities, but trying new restaurants and local delicacies. But it’s important to remember that these too can lead to increased dehydration. Salty foods can make you thirsty due to sodium's water-retaining properties while excessive salt intake can pull water out of cells, leaving you feeling dehydrated, likewise with sugary drinks.

High sugar intake causes the cells in the body to transfer more water which in turn leads to the need for more bathroom breaks. So while you’re on vacation, DO enjoy those tasty treats, but DON’T forget to replenish your liquids!

3 | Match Your Alcohol and Water Intake | After a long day in the sun hitting the trails or exploring a theme park, there’s nothing more refreshing than a cold cocktail by the pool. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a delicious drink, but it’s important to keep in mind that alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing fluid loss through urine.

Matching each alcoholic drink with a glass of water can help counteract these dehydrating effects. So, for every poolside margarita, follow it up with a refreshing water (or coconut water) chaser.

4 | Eat Fruit | Many fruits are water-rich and can help you maintain your hydration levels. Watermelon, for example, is about 92% water. Oranges, strawberries, and peaches are some other delicious and hydrating fruits to enjoy. So as you pack your picnic basket, don’t forget to bring along some refreshing fruit as a snack.

They are not only rich in water, but also in essential vitamins and minerals that help your immune system, as well as keep you hydrated, healthy, and energized throughout your trip. Talk about a win-win!

5 | Use a Hydration Tracker | Between keeping up with your kids and your vacation schedule, it can be difficult to also keep up with your water intake. Travel hack: use a hydration tracker! Whether you’re a digital dynamo or prefer the old-school approach, there are several ways to keep up with your hydration goals. Do you like visual reminders? Get a large water bottle and mark it with hourly drinking goals. You can even purchase pre-marked ones at many retail and online athletic stores.

Not looking to lug that around? There’s an app for that! In today's digital age, apps and wearables can help you track your water consumption. These tools send reminders to drink water and help you keep tabs on your daily intake. A hydration tracker can be invaluable, especially when on vacation and out of your usual routine. There is a wide variety of apps available to download on your watch, smartphone, or tablet so you can find the one that works for you!

6 | Add Electrolytes | When we sweat, especially in hot destinations, we lose not just water but also electrolytes. Drinks containing potassium, sodium, and chloride can help restore this balance. While sports drinks are an option, be cautious of their sugar content. Consider electrolyte tablets or powders that can be mixed with water for a hydrating boost without added sugars.

7 | Invest in a Quality Water Bottle | Get a durable, high-quality, reusable water bottle. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also ensures you always have water on hand. Many reusable bottles even come designed with hourly time markers to remind you to sip throughout the day.

8 | Stay Hydrated Inside and Out | Keeping yourself properly hydrated isn't just about what you eat and drink. The environment, particularly the dry atmosphere in airplanes or arid destinations, can absorb moisture from your skin, and cause you to become dehydrated.

Applying moisturizers and/or lotions can help create a barrier and reduce water loss from the skin's surface.

9 | Stay Out of the Sun | Seeking shade isn’t just for those avoiding sunburns or trying to beat the heat. A shaded area out of direct sunlight can be approximately anywhere between 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than in the sun. By staying in the shade, you can reduce sweat and subsequent fluid loss.

Remember, it's essential not to overexert yourself, as heavy sweating can quickly deplete your body's water, potassium, and sodium reserves.

10 | Cut Back on Caffeine | A morning coffee might be part of your daily ritual, and while water is a main ingredient in many caffeinated beverages, excessive caffeine can act as a diuretic and be counteractive to your hydration goals. This means more trips to the bathroom and increased fluid loss.

For many, that morning mocha is an important way to start your day. And that’s okay! Moderation is key. Consider alternating between caffeinated beverages and water or herbal teas.

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Good Hydration = A Great Vacation

Vacations are meant to be fun and rejuvenating. By prioritizing hydration, you can ensure that you and your family remain alert, energetic, and ready to make the most of your travel adventures. Whether you're trekking through nature, skiing down snowy slopes, or simply lounging by a luxurious pool, staying hydrated can be the difference between a vacation that’s merely okay and one you’ll never forget. While the concept of drinking water might seem mundane compared to the exotic allure of a vacation, understanding how to keep your body healthy and hydrated can transform the way you experience your trips.

Water you waiting for? Get more travel guides and tips, at the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.

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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.

*Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.