Travel trends among the younger generation continue to evolve, and TikTok is playing a significant role in shaping these changes. One of the latest crazes among Gen Z is called "raw dogging" flights, which is all about abstaining from virtually everything during long-haul journeys.
Dubbed “raw dogging,” this new trend involves passengers forgoing entertainment, meals, and even hydration to underline their ability to endure flights with nothing but their thoughts. A TikTok user, @oiwudini, shared his own experience: "Just rawdogged a 7-hour flight. No headphones, no movie, no water...The power of my mind knows no bounds," capturing the essence of this bizarre new mode of travel.
This social media phenomenon has taken off, with the video gaining over 14 million views. A slew of similar posts showcases predominantly male travelers spending hours staring blankly in silence, perhaps as their ticket to viral fame.
Notably, several celebrities like Manchester City soccer star Erling Haaland and British rapper ArrDee have also joined the trend, posting videos of themselves participating. Despite the lighthearted nature of these clips, the motivation behind these stunts remains vague.
The only time raw doggers seem to break their rules is when it involves the in-flight map. It seems many are eager to showcase their mental stamina online, turning what used to be mind-numbing hours of travel creativity-free.
Experts are shifting focus to the mental health effects of such extreme practices. While moments of digital detox can be beneficial for mental health, experts warn against pushing the limits too far.
Sophie Mort, mental health expert from Headspace, explains, “Not having access to emails or the ability to ‘check-in’ means we create space to engage our minds.” She highlights the importance of disconnecting from constant digital stimulation to help people reflect on what’s truly important to them.
Nevertheless, moderation is key. Mort emphasizes the importance of hydration and nutrition during flights, asserting, "Deciding not to watch a movie on a plane isn’t going to hurt you, but abstaining from food, water, and sleep on long-haul flights might."
The need for balance becomes even more apparent with the risks associated with taking raw dogging to extremes. Ignoring basic self-care steps, such as eating and drinking, could lead to unfavorable side effects for travelers.
Therapist Gin Lalli expressed serious concerns about this trend, declaring she would not recommend it at all. Instead of producing the serene mental state often associated with meditation, raw dogging could heighten stress, anxiety, and dizziness.
What's more, prolonged periods of stimuli deprivation might lead to medical emergencies aboard flights. Eloise Skinner, another mental health specialist, warns passengers about the risks of disassociation—a condition where one feels detached from their body or surroundings.
Yet, the problems extend beyond mere discomfort. A lack of movement and fluid intake can escalate the chances of deep vein thrombosis, and those who ignore self-care on flights may face dire consequences post-travel.
Skinner elaborates, cautioning, "Especially on flights, movement is important, and complete lack of movement can come with risks of deep vein thrombosis.” She continues, emphasizing the potential of this trend to trigger past traumas or numb emotional responses altogether.
Both therapists advocate for a healthier approach. They stress blending moments of reflection with adequate hydration, nutrition, and some light entertainment rather than embracing extreme practices.
Small, manageable steps can lead to more sustainable mental clarity than practices like raw dogging. It’s not just about enduring those long-haul flights anymore; rather, it’s about taking care of oneself during the entire process of travel.
With TikTok continuing to influence travel trends, it's plausible this bizarre practice could fade just as quickly as it emerged. Nonetheless, it remains critical for the social media generation to prioritize their health and well-being over social media clout.
While it's always tempting to chase fame and virality, self-care should never slide off the radar. Raw dogging might be fun to watch, but its consequences could be serious enough to warrant reconsideration.
Travelers should learn to prioritize both experiencing life and taking care of their mental and physical health as they jet off on their adventures.
Intrepid travelers can enjoy their journeys, but with TikTok challenges coming and going, at what cost does clout come? It might be time to balance enjoyment and health for happier travel experiences.
