Smooth Sailing: Effortless Hacks for a Stress-Free Flight Day

10. Combat Jet Lag Before Landing

Jet lag can be a real struggle, but you can ease the transition by adjusting your body’s internal clock before you even land. One of the best tricks is to set your watch (or phone) to your destination’s time zone as soon as you board. This small mental shift can help you start syncing with the new schedule before arrival. Try to align your sleep patterns with your destination’s time—if it’s nighttime where you’re headed, attempt to rest, even if it’s the middle of the day in your departure city. Noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a neck pillow can all help create a more sleep-friendly environment on board. When you arrive, resist the urge to nap if it’s daytime. Instead, spend as much time outside as possible—natural sunlight is one of the most effective ways to reset your circadian rhythm. If you land in the evening, keep your lights dim and avoid screens to encourage melatonin production, which will help you fall asleep faster. Staying hydrated, eating light, and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol will also help your body adjust more smoothly. Bonus tip: If you're landing in the morning, avoid naps and push through until the local bedtime—it’s the fastest way to get on schedule and minimize jet lag.