8 mistakes we make when trying to beat jetlag
Put simply, the human body isn’t designed for abrupt travel through multiple time zones. From an annoying distraction to a potentially holiday-destroying inconvenience, jet lag is never much fun. And a big part of the problem is there are still misconceptions regarding the best way to beat it. Here are eight mistakes we’ve been making, when trying to avoid the dreaded jet lag.
1. Making an effort to always try and sleep on a plane
Jet lag generally doesn’t kick in unless you’re travelling across time zones, so when making an effort to sleep on the plane put yourself in the time zone of your destination, ideally days before you leave.
2. It doesn’t matter which seat you end up in
While we can’t all afford first and business class seats, wider chairs with a deeper recline provide you with comfort for the solid sleep that could see you dodge jetlag. By choosing an exit row seat you will have that extra couple of inches to relax.
3. Watching the movie to help you fall asleep
Even if it’s not a particularly entertaining film, watching any movie will agitate and stimulate your circadian rhythm, leading to less rest. It’s suggested that you turn off your movie and any electronic devices at least one hour before your desired nap time for the best results.
4. Getting a drink to help you fall asleep
While a little bit of booze might help you fall asleep initially, the quality of your sleep will suffer. It will be more fragmented, and leave you with a groggy feeling when you wake up. Instead, you’re far better off going with a glass of water, but not too much as mid-air bathroom visits every 15 minute are also not very conducive to sleep.
5. Popping a sleeping pill
While sleeping pills are not necessarily a bad thing, they should be really only used on flights that are at least seven to eight hours long. Any less and they’re going to leave you sedated and very drowsy when you reach your destination, which is probably not a fantastic look to have when you’re going through customs.
6. A morning coffee on the way to the airport
Even if you really need a coffee to function at the start of your day, it’s not going to help you sleep on a plane. Avoid caffeine on your flying day as it stays in your system several hours after consumption.
7. Not taking the necessary tools
By having an eye mask, neck pillow, ear plugs, comfortable clothing and a blanket handy you significantly increasing your chances of getting some solid shuteye.
8. Not taking enough time to adjust to your surroundings
While you may feel refreshed and ready to see the sights as you jump off the plane, this feeling might not necessarily last. It’s recommended that you set aside at least one-half to three-quarters of a day to getting your body used to your new surroundings, before you try anything too strenuous.
Related links:
The five-star hotel that floats in the ocean
10 spectacular drone photos taken in 2015
8 common travel insurance exclusions