What are the best drinks to ask for on a plane?

  • Bloody Mary. Ingredients: tomato juice, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, vodka. A Bloody Mary has long been known as the best cocktail to order on a plane. ...
  • Gin and Tonic. Ingredients: gin, tonic water, lemon slice. ...
  • Moscow Mule. Ingredients: ginger beer, vodka. ...
  • Mimosa.




In 2026, the best drinks to order on a plane are those that remain flavorful despite the low humidity and cabin pressure. Tomato Juice or a Bloody Mary mix is the top recommendation; the "savory" (umami) profile of tomato juice is actually enhanced in the air, whereas sweet and salty flavors are dampened. For a refreshing non-alcoholic choice, Ginger Ale is a classic for its ability to settle the stomach and its crisp, zesty finish. If you're looking for an alcoholic cocktail, a Gin & Tonic is often the best "safe bet" because it only has two ingredients and is hard to get wrong. Many travelers also opt for herbal teas (like peppermint or chamomile) to stay hydrated and relaxed without the diuretic effects of caffeine. For pure hydration, plain water remains the gold standard, ideally without ice to avoid potential bacteria from the plane's water tanks. Avoid heavy coffee or sugary sodas, which can lead to "crashes" and dehydration during long-haul flights.

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It can be tempting to load up on caffeine or alcohol to pass the time while in the air—but avoiding the temptation will help keep you hydrated and make it a whole lot easier to fall asleep when it's time for lights out. It's better to drink herbal tea to achieve a soothing effect and sleep better on the plane.

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An ideal drink for a flight Tomato juice is also very popular on trips, as it is very refreshing, sweet and fruity. “It's a drink that's 95% water, so it's very hydrating and as such, very interesting,” explains Sophie Janvier. And hydration is essential at altitude.

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“Most flight attendants won't drink the tap water, coffee or tea,” she added, noting that caffeinated drinks also dehydrate you – another reason to avoid them while travelling. And before you put ice in your drink, think again. That is also often made using the very same tap water.

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“While plain water is best for staying hydrated, other drinks and foods can help, too,” says Theunissen. “Fruit and vegetable juices, milk and herbal teas add to the amount of water you get each day.” Consider bringing your own herbal tea bags while flying.

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The short list: what food to avoid before a flight
  • kale.
  • cabbage.
  • brussel sprouts.
  • cauliflower & broccoli.
  • beans.
  • fast food.
  • alcohol.
  • caffeine.


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Eric Rimm, an associate professor of nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health, tells Health Magazine: Since there's less water in your blood when you're dehydrated, the concentration of alcohol will be slightly higher, leading to quicker intoxication and increased potential for a hangover. Still, many a ...

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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In a 2013 blog post that continues to make the internet rounds, the flight attendant noted that because the average airplane cabin is pressurized to the equivalent of about 8,000 feet instead of sea level, soft drinks foam up more when poured out of a can. The worst culprit for this is Diet Coke,'' he wrote.

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Whether domestic or international, you can usually order a drink on a flight before 12pm. This is unless it's an airline like Turkish Airlines, who don't serve alcohol on their domestic flights or an airline that doesn't offer this as part of their complimentary breakfast selection.

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Your best bet is water, a light pre-flight meal, and—if you know you're highly-affected during flights—Gas-Ex, which can help if your belly starts acting up, says Dr. Sam. Also make sure to go for a walk every now and then—either to the bathroom or just down the aisle. Moving around can help keep things...well...

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Increase fiber and fluids. Make sure your pre-travel diet includes plenty of fiber, which makes stools softer and more comfortable to pass. Foods high in fiber include many fruits, like apples (with the skin), raspberries, and pears; beans; and whole-grain foods such as bran cereal.

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Top 5 travel tips to help you prepare for a long-haul flight
  1. Wear comfortable clothing. ...
  2. Stay hydrated. ...
  3. Exercise before you fly. ...
  4. Eat nutritious food. ...
  5. Practice meditation and yoga.


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It is also best to avoid caffeine if you are an anxious flyer. Choose a calming drink like camomile or peppermint tea to help you relax, or even just water. Have a light meal before your flight to help settle your stomach, but try not to overdo it.

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24 things to do to make the most of your First Class flight
  1. Schedule a spa appointment.
  2. Get chauffeured to the airport.
  3. Sit down to check in.
  4. Speed through security and immigration.
  5. Enjoy à la carte dining in the lounge.
  6. Freshen up before your flight.
  7. Get driven to your plane.
  8. Board before anyone else.


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Yes, flight attendants will typically fill your water bottle for you if you ask them. They may not be able to do so if the plane is running low on water, but in general, they are happy to help out. So, next time you're thirsty on a flight, don't hesitate to ask your friendly flight attendant for a refill!

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