Traveling is one of life's greatest joys. Whether you're exploring the beautiful forests of Canada, sipping coffee in a cafe in Italy, or visiting friends and family across the country, there's something special about experiencing new places.
But with any great adventure comes its fair share of struggles—jet lag being one of them! Jet lag can be an unwelcome guest that rears its head after your journey (or even when you arrive) and can make fitting back into your regular routine feel impossible.
But fear not! There are plenty of ways to combat this problem and get back on track as quickly as possible. From simple changes like regulating your sleeping patterns before you depart to adjusting your diet while traveling, there is much that you can do to help ease your jet lag.
Being well-prepared for the journey ahead will ensure you can enjoy all that traveling has to offer without being hampered by fatigue or exhaustion. From stunning views and unique cultures to unforgettable memories, there's no denying the joys of traveling—so don't let jet lag hold you back. Let’s look at some easy ways you can get over jet lag faster.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Ahead of Time
The sooner you adjust your sleep schedule to fit the new time zone, the easier it will be to adjust when you arrive.
If you’re traveling east, go to bed earlier and wake up earlier than usual; if you’re going west, do the opposite.
You may not feel ready for bed when it's time to turn in on your first night in a new place, but doing this can help get you back on track quickly.
If you're having trouble falling asleep in an unfamiliar bed or simply want extra help adjusting your sleep schedule, a sleep patch might be the solution!
These small patches contain a natural blend of herbs and oils that activate the body's relaxation hormones, helping you fall asleep quickly and painlessly. What's more, they're vegan-friendly, so everyone can enjoy a good night's rest, regardless of their dietary restrictions.
Stay Hydrated
One of the best ways to beat jet lag is by drinking lots of water. The low humidity levels inside an airplane cabin can cause dehydration, which can worsen jetlag symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and irritability.
Being well-hydrated helps reduce these symptoms and gives you more energy to explore your new destination. Additionally, avoiding caffeine and alcohol during travel can help keep your body hydrated and functioning properly.
Get Some Sunlight
If you're feeling sluggish due to jet lag, don't forget about the power of sunshine! A bit of sun exposure and a few early morning walks can go a long way toward helping your body adjust to its new environment. Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which is essential for healthy sleep cycles.
When you arrive at your destination, try to get some time outside—whether it be walking around your hotel neighborhood or just sitting on a bench and soaking up the rays. When your body gets natural sunlight during peak hours of the day—usually from midday to the early afternoon—it helps reset your internal clock. Once you check into your hotel or hostel, grab your sunglasses and head outside.
Not only will the fresh air do wonders for clearing out that stuffy airplane cabin air, but the sun will also help your body adjust to its new time zone. You'll be surprised how quickly you'll start feeling more like yourself again.
Take Naps
Taking a quick nap after arriving in a new time zone is one of the best ways to beat jet lag. Naps help reset your body clock and adjust to the new time zone faster. Studies have shown that napping for 20–90 minutes can give you more energy, reduce stress, and improve focus. Just make sure you don’t accidentally fall asleep for several hours, or you could make your jetlag worse.
If you're feeling sluggish after a long flight, take a quick power nap! You'll be back on track in no time. Plus, it's just plain enjoyable to wrap yourself up in soft blankets and doze away for a bit.
We all know that traveling can be exhausting, so if you start to feel sleepy during the day, don't fight it! Take a brief (no more than 30 minutes) nap to recharge and give yourself a boost of energy.
Enjoy Your Vacation to the Fullest
Getting over jet lag may seem daunting at first, but with these tips, you'll be back to your old self in no time! Don't let jet lag stop you from enjoying all the fun and excitement that comes with traveling—these five tricks will help you make the most of every moment.
