There are very few downsides to travelling, but coping with jet lag is definitely one of them. The number one recommendation of our Travel Advisors is to ensure the first full day in your destination is a restful one. Get out a take a walk, explore a little and re-hydrate. Avoid crowds and rushing from site to site. If you feel the need to take a nap, make sure it’s early enough that it won’t compromise your ability to get to sleep at night and limit yourself to 20 mins.
Here are a few other tips and tricks to help you get up and running quickly after your next flight.
Tips for Avoiding Jet Lag
Adjust your sleep several days before you travel. If you are flying east, get up earlier and go to bed earlier. If you are flying west, get up later and stay up later.
Work with your advisor to schedule flights that arrive in the early evening rather than the early morning. They work with airfare specialists and know how to find the best flights that work with your schedule and your budget.
When you board the plane set your watch to the time of your destination. It helps prepare you psychologically.
If possible, try to get some sleep on the plane.
How to Get Over Jet Lag
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and chocolate about 3-4 hours before bedtime. These could negatively impact your sleep.
Keep hydrated, drinking plenty of water.
Avoid large meals upon arrival.
Stay away from heavy exercise before sleep. But do walk around and do some stretching to get your endorphins moving.
Get out in the sun as much as possible – sun actually helps regulate the circadian rhythm.
For those technology-savvy travellers, Re-Timer glasses have been said to help with jetlag. The glasses emit a green light that stimulates the brain to recalculate your body clock.
Travelling for business? Read our original blog post on this topic and tips specific to business travellers.