Your Voice While Flying
Flying can be rough on the voice, which is problematic given how many singers fly between gigs. Dry cabin air, noise levels, time zone shifts, loss of sleep, and pressure changes leading to ear and sinus symptoms all impact voice and performance.
How can you optimize vocal health while flying?
Why does flying affect the voice?
Airplane cabins have notoriously dry air, drop to as low as 10-20%. Most people live in and are comfortable with 40-60% humidity. Dry air can dehydrate your vocal cords, making them less flexible and more prone to strain.
Additionally, those with allergies, sinus, and ear issues often find flying difficult, due to pressure changes. People retain fluid and become more swollen and bloated while flying. Finally, alterations to sleep schedule can dramatically affect performance.
Pre-Flight Prep: Setting Your Voice Up for Success
Hydrate: Get that aisle seat and start drinking water well before you board. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water the day before and the day of travel. Herbal teas with honey can also be a soothing option—just avoid anything caffeinated or overly sugary.
Have a Vocal Care Kit: Bring along essentials like a reusable water bottle, lozenges, and a travel humidifier or hydrating nasal spray. These small tools can make a big difference.
Avoid Voice Strain Beforehand: If you can, rest your voice in the hours leading up to your flight. Ambient cabin noise will make you raise your speaking volume, which adds to vocal strain.
In-Flight Tips: Protecting Your Voice at Cruising Altitude
Keep Sipping Water: Once you’re on board, continue drinking water throughout the flight. Skip the complimentary coffee, tea, or alcohol, as these can dehydrate you further.
Limit Talking: Airplane cabins are noisy, which means you’re likely to speak louder than usual without even realizing it. Try to minimize conversations or use a softer voice.
Use a Face Mask: A face mask can help retain some moisture around your nose and mouth, creating a mini-humidified environment for your vocal cords. Bonus: it’ll also protect you from airborne germs.
Snack Smart: Avoid salty snacks like pretzels or chips, as they result in bloating and fluid retention. Opt for fresh fruits or veggies if they’re available, or bring your own travel-friendly snacks.
Post-Flight Recovery: Rehydrate and Rest
Steam It Out: After you land, treat your voice to some steam. A hot shower or a bowl of steaming water with a towel over your head can work wonders to rehydrate your vocal cords.
Keep Hydrating: Continue drinking water and herbal teas to replenish the fluids you lost during the flight.
Rest Your Voice: If possible, give your voice a break after the flight. Avoid loud environments or excessive talking to let your vocal cords recover.
Sleep: focus on helping your body adjust to time zone changes by exposing yourself to sunlight during daytime hours and consider melatonin at night.
Flying doesn’t have to be a vocal health nightmare. With a little preparation and mindfulness, you can protect your voice and arrive at your destination ready to speak and sing your best.
