The day of your international flight is finally here! Your bags are packed, you’re at the airport early, and you’re ready for the long flight. When you arrive at your new destination, you can’t help but feel totally exhausted by the time difference. This feeling of fatigue or mild internal confusion is commonly referred to as jet lag. When your body’s circadian rhythm is suddenly disrupted by a time zone change, it can be hard to get back to normal and adjust. Check out our key tips for reducing the effects of jet lag so you can make the most of your trip!
Prioritize pre-travel rest
Yes, traveling is super exciting, especially if you’re exploring a new territory or country. In fact, all the excitement is probably keeping you from getting the rest you need. Leading up to your departure, be sure to get plenty of sleep, anywhere from 8-10 hours per night. Establishing a comforting bedtime routine can help you unwind, relax, and fall asleep quicker. It can even be helpful to change your sleep schedule to more closely match the time zone of your vacation spot at least one or two days before traveling.
Stay hydrated
It goes without saying that proper hydration is an essential component to feeling great and functioning even better. Dehydration can make it difficult to conquer jet lag – it makes headaches worse and increases feelings of sluggishness. Drink plenty of water before boarding the plane and during your flight. Any snacks and meals you consume should be relatively low in sodium as well to prevent further dehydration.
Don’t jump into a nap!
You may feel tempted to jump into your cozy hotel bed and sleep the first day of your travels away. Many people even add an extra day to their travel itinerary for this exact reason! However, you don’t need to dish out extra funds and waste potential exploration time to catch up on your sleep. By following the first two steps above, you’ll be less likely to need a nap when you land. Even if you feel a bit tired, it’s best to power through those feelings. Often, a nutritious meal or a fun walk can be just what it takes to feel energized again.
Stay in tune with your new time zone
Keeping up with the local routine of your time zone is the best way to keep jet lag from getting the best of you. You may have taken an evening flight, taken a nap on the plane, and arrived at your new destination at dusk, ready to take in all the city has to offer. In reality, it may be best to resist the urge to stay up all night and instead get ready for bed, leaving you plenty of time and energy to explore the next day. This will prevent you from sleeping the next day away and getting caught in a vicious cycle.
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