Dealing with Jet Lag

Do you get jet lag when you travel? Whether traveling across the country or internationally, changing time zones for a few days or a couple of weeks can affect how you feel and behave during your trip. Here are a few ways to minimize the effect of jet lag on your trip:

• Get plenty of rest before you leave. Rick Steves recommends being ready to go 2 days before you actually leave on your trip so you have a couple of peaceful days before you fly. Mentally and physically you’ll be a lot less drained.
• Think about your arrival time. If possible, arrange for your flight to arrive mid/late afternoon to allow you time to get through baggage claim, find your hotel and get a good night’s sleep.
• Make a few adjustments before your trip. Before you leave, adjust your natural sleep patterns by going to bed/getting up earlier or later.
• Drink plenty of fluids. The dry air in the plane can cause dehydration, so avoiding alcohol and caffeine will help, as will taking in even more water than usual.
• Get some sleep. Using aids like blindfolds, ear plugs and blow up pillows will help you get some rest during the flight.
• Get up and move. Although exercise on a plane can be difficult, walking up and down the aisle, standing up for a while and stretching as much as possible can help your body stay loose during the flight.
• Adapt to the normal routine. If you arrive in the morning, eat breakfast – even if your internal clock is telling you it’s time for lunch or dinner. According to some doctors, daylight helps you adjust, so stay outside as much as possible.

Rick Steves says the best prescription for jet lag is: Leave unfrazzled, minimize jet lag’s symptoms, force yourself into European time, and give yourself a chance to enjoy your trip from the moment you step off the plane.

For more suggestions for dealing with jet lag, visit:

• http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/jetlag.htm
• http://www.nojetlag.com/jetlag3.html
• http://thetravelinsider.info/2002/0510.htm
• http://www.essortment.com/deal-overcome-jet-lag-29972.html

Photo Credit: Smath.
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