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Getting on a plane to fly abroad can be stressful. You have to ensure you’re checked-in online, your bags aren’t overweight and make it to the gate in time.

But, once you’re sat in your seat – whether a plush business class one or a cramped economy option – it’s time to relax. You’re almost at your destination and ready to enjoy yourself.

However, flight attendants and travel experts warn not to let your guard down on the plane. Breaking one pro’s top tip could lead to you feeling unwell and ruining your entire holiday.

READ MORE: Flight attendant warns passengers to 'never wear shorts' on a plane

Anton Radchenko, Travel expert and founder of Air Advisor says that there's one thing he'd never do when flying on a plane. He claims that breaking his rule could mean you inject a virus or bacteria that causes illness.

He claims that drinking tap water from a plane is the worst thing you can do ahead of a relaxing week away, and said he always avoids it in both hot and cold drinks.

Anton told Daily Star: "In-flight tap water systems are rarely cleaned. So, when you ask for a glass of tap water, hot chocolate, or a cuppa, you’re potentially drinking from dirty pipes."

He advises that you drink from sealed, bottled water instead. He added: "You know where the water has come from. While planes do carry drinking water, it can be sourced from any pickup points on that plane’s route and it can be stored for long periods which inevitably means that the water quality is reduced."

Anton also says that drinking bottled drinks "reduces the risk of contamination". He explained: "Airlines are required to adhere to stringent regulations regarding water quality and run water tests regularly. But serious contamination can take place."

The expert continued to say that bottled water reduces the "risk of Illness". He said: "Of course, if you drink contaminated water, there’s a good chance that you may become unwell. Especially if you already have an underlying health condition or weakened immune system and no one wants to spend their holiday, or return home with ‘traveller’s tummy’."

if you're trying to save cash while flying though we'd recommend bringing an empty reusable bottle through airport security with you. It won't be classed as a liquid if it's empty and dry.

Then when you're past the security level you can head for one of the airport water stations. Most UK airports have the water fountains which are kept clean and safe to drink.

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  Flight attendants reveal passenger's worst habits including asking for water

Alternatively, you can ask at one of the airport bars or restaurants and they'll fill up your bottle if you ask politely. That way you'll have safe water to drink without spending a penny – and Anton notes that this is important.

He added: "Dehydration is dangerous. Flying increases the risk of dehydration. So, it’s important to keep up your water intake. But drinking poor quality water can be worse than not drinking enough. Bringing bottled water is always safer.

"And remember – alcohol is NOT a good substitution! It may feel good in the moment, but it will really dehydrate you. Which is bad for your health and bad for your holiday!"

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