Getting ready for that next big trip? Maybe it’s been a while since you traveled. Well, don’t fret; we’ve got everything you need to beat that jetlag when you arrive and have an incredible time.
As a full-time traveler for almost a year and a half, I’ve picked up a few hacks along the way; I’ve had to. Juggling client work and travel means I have to be on my A-game and that I don’t have a week to get “used to” the time change.
When you only have a week or two vacation, you also don’t have time to adjust gradually, as is often recommended.
So, what are some travel tips you can use to ensure you have a fantastic trip? Below, we explore jetlag in general and what else you should know before you leave.
Technically, for every time zone crossed, it takes about a day to adjust. Jetlag is always temporary. You might feel your digestion is off, you have serious daytime fatigue, or you feel grumpy (which is the last thing you want when you’re trying to enjoy an experience!).
Thus, how long jetlag lasts depends on where you’re going when compared to where you start. If you’re going from North America to Asia, you’re likely going to need at least a few days to really get used to it. But there are things you can do to ease this!
Before we dive into travel tips to beat jetlag, let’s first take a look at what you should do before traveling. These include:
Okay, so back to the jetlag. How can you beat it? Here are my top tips.
If it’s going to be a harsh change, this can help ease that pain just a little bit. In the week leading up to your trip, try gradually adjusting your bedtime depending on the time zone you’re traveling to. This also goes hand-in-hand with getting plenty of rest before you leave!
The fastest way to get used to the new one is to push through. For instance, yes, it might be 10 pm at home and only 3 pm at your destination. The rule of thumb here is to just push through until a reasonable bedtime instead of going to bed at 4 pm. Forcing this adjustment right away can prevent it from lasting too long.
The lower humidity on planes can quickly lead to dehydration. Throw in a new time zone, and your sleep and digestion are going to be feeling pretty “blah.” In particular, your digestion may take a hit, which can be really uncomfortable.
But drinking lots of water can help things work their way through your digestive tract and also “restart” things in terms of meal timings.
I tend to make it a habit to grab a glass of water as soon as I wake up. Thus, when I hit a new time zone, I continue to do this when I wake up, which can help signal to my body that things have changed. I always find I get on a better rhythm when I do this!
Related Article: Coffee and Your Gut Health: Is it Friend or Foe?
Yes, it will never be the best sleep of your life. However, even a little bit can reduce some of that fatigue. A few tips here… Bring earplugs, an eyemask, and neck support. All of this might seem like a nuisance to bring, but it matters oh so much when someone’s bright TV screen or loud noises are preventing you from dozing off.
Also, sleeping on the plane may depend on how far you are traveling. If it’s only one time zone, it’s probably not necessary. If you’re traveling between multiple time zones or to the other side of the world, it’s recommended!
Related Article: Sleep Music & White Noise: How Do They Help You Get Some Rest?
You’re going to be tired; there’s no real way around it. So, plan your first day or two accordingly!
For example, I like to arrive in new places on the weekend, so I have time to relax before diving into work. If you’re heading on vacation, maybe the first day or two should consist of lounging by the pool or beach or indulging in that day spa.
Rick Steves, an American Travel Writer, has said,
“Travel is rich with learning opportunities, and the ultimate souvenir is a broader perspective.”
This is why I travel, and for most people, I’d say they would probably agree.
As long as you plan and prepare as best you can, you’ll be able to have truly enriching experiences that can alter your perspective and help you gain a greater connection with the world. Happy travels!
Read Next: Here’s 5 Reasons Why Traveling Helps Us Become Better People
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