What is the “rawdogging travel trend” that worries health experts?

A new Social Media Challenge encourages travelers to “enjoy their flights raw” by getting through the trip without any form of entertainment, distractions, or even basic amenities. Participants in this “raw travel” trend board flights without headphones, books, or any source of entertainment.
However, some people go a step further and forgo food and drinks on board and even toilet breaks for the entire flight. This trend has sparked an online competition in which participants try to last longer by surviving as long flights as possible in minimal comfort.
Experts disagree on the potential benefits and drawbacks of this practice. Research suggests that “turning off” the mind and taking a break from the screen can improve learning, improve sleep, and increase creativity. Psychologists also suggest that this type of digital detox can help people feel more connected to themselves in a world where constant digital stimulation strains attention spans.
However, health professionals have raised concerns about more extreme forms of this trend.
Manchester City footballer Erling Haaland recently took part in the challenge and shared his experience on a seven-hour flight where he went without using his phone, sleeping, eating or drinking. Haaland described the challenge as “simple”, but medical experts strongly condemned the move.
Dr Gill Jenkins, a general practitioner and medical attendant in the rescue helicopter sector, criticised the more extreme practices associated with rawdogging flights“You're idiots,” she told the BBC. “A digital detox might do you good, but anything else goes against medical advice.”
Dr Jenkins highlighted the health risks of long-haul flights, particularly dehydration and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). She explained that the risks of long-haul flights are compounded by dehydration and lack of exercise, which can lead to DVT. She also said that not going to the toilet is “a bit stupid” and that you should go when you need to.
While disconnecting from digital distractions can be beneficial, overdoing it can pose serious health risks that outweigh any potential benefits.