The one thing you should avoid doing at all costs on your next flight, says flight attendant

Whether you’re heading on a long or short-haul flight, comfort is key when it comes to travelling by plane. To ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible, a flight attendant has shared one piece of advice for flying, adding that not following it could make you ill.

Teaming up, leading travel expert Ski Vertigo and a flight attendant have encouraged passengers to not drink tap water while on planes as they claimed that it could “harbour harmful bacteria” – though this may not be the case with many flights.

“Airplane water tanks are often not adequately cleaned, leading to potential contamination. Research and reports indicate that the water in these tanks can harbour harmful bacteria and pathogens,” they said.

"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that a significant percentage of aircraft tested positive for coliform bacteria, and even E. coli in some cases. These bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal issues and other infections."

As a result, they also advised against ordering tea or coffee while on board a plane as these drinks can sometimes be made using the tap water that’s available. “The coffee and tea served on flights are often made using the plane's tap water, which means that any contamination in the water tanks is also present in these beverages,” they added.

Instead of purchasing teas or coffees on a plane, the flight attendant revealed their hack for getting around the subject and encouraged holidaymakers to plan in advance. Rather than getting something to drink on board, they told individuals to bring an empty reusable water bottle in their carry-on luggage.

Not only does this mean that you’ll be able to have access to something to drink while exploring your holiday destination, but it means that once you’ve gotten through security you can fill it up at an airport water fountain or bottle refill station.

This comes after another cabin crew member explained why you should fight the urge to sleep until your flight’s taken off. In a YouTube video, flight attendant Wonderfully Ale explained: “I know travelling can be exhausting and sometimes you just wanna get on an airplane and go straight to sleep.

“So not only is it not good for your ears to fall asleep before take-off, but you also want to remember that taxiing is one of the most crucial phases of flight.”

She added: “You wanna make sure that you are completely aware and completely awake in case of an emergency or in case you have to evacuate.”