How to Get Over Jet Lag Quickly and Easily

Jet lag can put a serious damper on your trip. A time change of two or more time zones means that your body is on a different schedule than those in your destination. Unfortunately, there is no magic cure-all for jet lag. But, if you take some precautions, you can minimize its effects.

Adjust Time Right Away

You should adjust to the time zone of your destination as soon as you can. This means that you should follow their schedule when it comes to sleep and meals. Figure out what time you will land, and plan back a few hours. When you land, go along with the schedule of everyone else (as best as you can).

If you’re on an overnight flight and will land in the morning, you should try to sleep on the plane and stay awake when you land. It’ll be hard but lead to a quicker adjustment.

Sleep

It can be tempting to sleep as soon as you land – after all, you’re going to be tired from traveling. But, you should be operating on your destination’s schedule now. This means taking a nap might disrupt your internal clock. Instead, go about your day (a small coffee may help), until it is bedtime. You’ll probably be more than ready for a full night’s sleep then.

Leave your shades open to let in light the next morning. The natural light will make it easier for you to wake up. Now, if it is too bright to leave them open, don’t. Instead, just open your blinds first thing in the morning.

Meals

Eating a heavy meal right before a flight is not always the best idea. Many people experience stomach sickness if they do. Instead, eat a healthy, light meal. Food with protein and vegetables will give you some nutrients and keep you from getting too hungry.

You can always pack a snack instead of buying food at the airport. Be sure that you don’t bring liquids, as it will probably be confiscated. Solid, pre-sealed snacks are best, but what make it through security is up to the officers.

Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm. Plus, alcohol can leave you dehydrated, and coffee does not help either. It’s best to avoid both if you can.

However, you can use caffeine strategically. If you arrive at your destination early in the day, you should try to stay awake until it’s bedtime there. A bit of caffeine can help you stay awake easier. Just be sure to not over-do it. Don’t drink caffeine more than six hours before bedtime. Otherwise, you risk not being able to go to sleep.

Hydrate

Staying hydrated improves the way you feel on a daily basis to start with. However, it is even more important to stay hydrated while you are traveling. The easiest way is to bring an empty water bottle in your carry-on bag. (A filled water bottle will not make it through security). Once you are past security, you can fill it up from a water fountain. Be sure to also drink water if offered on the airplane.

You might also notice your ski become dehydrated while traveling. Bringing a small travel-sized bottle of lotion can help. You can put on some lotion throughout your flight. Be sure to pay special attention to your face, hands, and any other part that begins to feel dry.

Get outside

Unless your flight lands during your destination’s sleeping time, you should get outside a little bit. Walking around a little bit can help you adjust to your new time zone easier. It doesn’t have to be a tour of the entire city. Just a little bit of movement can help adjust your internal clock.

Light

Your exposure to light can help you adjust even quicker. In general, if you are traveling east, avoid light in the evening. Once you return to the hotel, shut your blinds and try to wind down for the evening. The lack of light will help your body know that it is almost ready for bed.

If you are traveling west, do the opposite. More light exposure in the evening will help you stay up later. You’ll probably be ready for bed before it is time. The light will trick your body a little and help you get on a new schedule.

Experiencing jet lag is one of the most annoying parts of travel. However, a few changes will allow you to make an easier transition.

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