Stop Jet-Lag From Wrecking Your Trip

When traveling across multiple time zones, the body needs time to adjust its daily circadian rhythm, which makes the first day of a trip a write-off for many unlucky travelers. Luckily, there are tricks individuals can use to mitigate these effects and help get the most out of their travels. Jet lag affects the human body for up to a few days, depending on the size of the time difference, and can put a damper on those shorter vacation periods because what begins as a week-long vacation can be stifled by an overwhelming need to rest. Here are some ways to help keep jet lag at bay and get the most out of every holiday, regardless of the distance.

Adjusting Your Internal Clock

Adjusting your sleep schedule a couple of days before a flight can drastically reduce the effects of jet lag. Also, changing sleeping habits to mimic the day/night cycle of the destination time zone reduces the adjustment period your body will require. With this in mind, always be sure to take a few extra days before your flight takes off and start becoming accustomed to the new sleep and wake patterns. It also helps to put this into practice on the flight itself. What time will it be at your destination when the flight lands? If it's in the morning, try sleeping as much as possible on the flight, and if it is evening, do your best to stay awake the entire time. For flight arrivals during the middle of the day, it is important to use your judgment.

Continue reading to learn about how hydration can help.