How to Prevent Jet Lag

After marking your calendar as out of office, the last thing you want to experience on your vacation is jet lag. It’s bad enough when you don’t feel well at home, but in Bali or the Bahamas, no thank you. Complete with muscle soreness, headache, fatigue, and more, jet lag disturbs your internal clock and sets the tone for a long, exhausting week ahead.

Jet lag works by disrupting your circadian rhythm, which signals the brain when to sleep and when to be awake. Travel interferes with this internal clock system and other body functions giving way to a long list of symptoms like moodiness, stomach issues, and nausea.

Follow these simple steps to stop jet lag in its tracks on your next trip.

Plan Ahead

A good rule of thumb is to start changing your sleep schedule early. This means if you’re heading out East, turn in for bed an hour or two earlier. And if you’re traveling West, shift your bedtime an hour or two later. When to start? Begin your new sleep routine two to three weeks before your trip to acclimate to the new time zone.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

It’s always important to stay hydrated, but it’s even more important when you’re traveling. Between the changing cabin pressure, humidity, and adjusted altitude levels, it’s a recipe for dehydration. Keep a reusable water bottle handy to fill at the airport or purchase a water bottle after security.

Pro tip: Steer away from caffeine and alcohol on your trip, it can add to your dehydration.

Sun’s Out, Energy’s Up

Sunlight is your friend when it comes to jet lag. Not only does it help reset your body’s circadian rhythm, but the natural light helps you stay awake. It really works wonders. When choosing your flight, book flights that land during the day to easily adjust yourself to the local time zone. Prioritize a walk outside upon arrival for that much-needed energy boost.

Now you’re ready for air travel, but what about the open road? Learn how to optimize your RV for life on the road.