Jet lag can be an unpleasant experience, but there are some simple tricks to getting a good night’s sleep while traveling. This includes adjusting your body’s clock, minimizing alcohol and caffeine before bedtime, and finding out what time your destination is. It’s important to follow your new body’s rhythm as quickly as possible, but it’s also smart to take it easy at first.
One of the easiest ways to adjust your time zone is to eat healthy foods and drink liquids. Drinking water before, during, and after flights can help you fight jet lag. If you’re traveling internationally, limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine before bedtime. These can dehydrate you and make it difficult to fall asleep.
Another helpful trick is to pack a sleep mask. A sleep mask can block light, which may help you sleep on a flight. You can also wear earplugs, which can block noise.
Try to get at least three to four hours of rest during a long flight. This can be tricky if you’re flying through multiple time zones, but it’s essential to your health. Sleep helps your body get back on track, and a lack of sleep can worsen the symptoms of jet lag.
You’ll want to avoid the common travel mistake of ignoring the time of your destination. It’s best to schedule your flights so that they’re close to when you’re normally waking up. However, if you have to leave a few hours before or after your usual time, you can make it work.
Don’t underestimate the role natural light plays in letting your body know when to rest. Your body will take a while to get used to the new time zone, so keep an eye on the time. The more time zones you cross, the more likely you are to have jet lag. For example, if you’re flying from the United States to Europe, you’ll have to change your wristwatch six to nine hours forward.
Depending on your age and physical condition, it’s also important to consider what kind of medication or sleep aid you should be taking. There are several drugs available to combat the effects of jet lag, and if you’re having trouble sleeping on the plane, you should seek medical advice.
Another tip is to take in more sunlight. If your destination is at night, try to stay in a hotel near the airport. In addition, you might want to sleep in the daytime for a while.
Taking a nap during the day might seem counterproductive, but it can actually reduce your jet lag symptoms. Naps lasting 20 minutes or less are a good way to relax and get your body ready for the rigors of travel. But a nap during the day won’t do you much good if you don’t get to bed at a reasonable time.
Other tips to get a good night’s sleep while on the road include avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and excessive screen time. Alcohol and caffeine disrupt your sleep, and they can also dehydrate you.