Jet Lag Be Gone! Expert Hacks for Time Travel Troubles

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Jet lag often turns exciting travels into exhausting experiences, but there’s a solution. Alex Savy, founder of ComfyNorth, has developed effective strategies to overcome this challenge. Using his extensive experience, he offers practical tips to combat jet lag. These strategies are designed to help travelers stay energized and make the most of their journeys.

Here are 10 practical tips you can use on your next trip to help overcome jet lag quickly.

1. Gradually Adjust Your Schedule

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“Jet lag isn’t inevitable,” says Savy. He believes it’s all about adjusting your internal body clock to the new time zone, something achievable with a strategic approach. His first recommendation? “Start adjusting your schedule a few days before departure.” For instance, if you’re traveling east, try going to bed one hour earlier each day. Conversely, if heading west, do the opposite.

2. Stay Hydrated

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Hydration is another essential component of Savy’s anti-jet lag regimen. “The dry cabin air can dehydrate you, exacerbating feelings of fatigue and disorientation,” he explains. He suggests avoiding alcohol and caffeine during flights, both notorious for their dehydrating effects, and instead recommends drinking plenty of water.

3. Seek Light Exposure

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Savy also swears by the power of light exposure in resetting our internal body clocks. “After arrival, spend as much time as possible outside during daylight hours,” he advises. This natural light exposure can help realign your circadian rhythm with the local time.

4. Avoid Heavy Meals

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Alex Savy advises against consuming heavy meals during the flight. “Eating light can help your body adjust to the new time zone more easily,” he explains. Heavy meals can disrupt your digestion, leading to discomfort and exacerbating the symptoms of jet lag.

5. Exercise Regularly

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Regular exercise is another key strategy in Savy’s anti-jet lag plan. “Physical activity can help reset your internal body clock,” he says. He recommends light exercises like stretching or walking during the flight and maintaining your regular exercise routine once you’ve arrived at your destination.

6. Limit Nap Times

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While it might be tempting to take long naps upon arrival, Savy warns against it. “Long naps can interfere with your body’s adjustment to the new time zone,” he says. Instead, he suggests short, refreshing power naps if necessary.

6. Use Jet Lag Apps

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Savy also recommends using jet lag apps that provide personalized advice based on your sleep pattern, age, and flight plan. “These apps can help you plan your light exposure, sleep times, and meals to minimize jet lag,” he explains.

8. Consider Taking Melatonin

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Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Savy suggests considering melatonin supplements to help adjust your internal body clock, especially when traveling across multiple time zones. “However, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen,” he cautions.

9. Maintain a Positive Mindset

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Lastly, Savy emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. “Jet lag can be as much a mental challenge as a physical one,” he says. “Stay positive, and remember that any discomfort is temporary and part of the exciting travel experience.”

10. Get Rest During Flight

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He also promotes a proactive approach to sleep during the flight. “Use a sleep mask and noise-canceling headphones, or even consider a mild sleep aid if necessary,” Savy suggests, emphasizing the importance of rest during long-haul flights.

Savy reminds us that everyone is different and may need to tweak these strategies for maximum effectiveness. “Be patient with yourself,” he concludes, “Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.” As travelers increasingly seek expert advice for smoother journeys, Alex Savy’s practical tips for beating jet lag are more important than ever.

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Image Credit: Karee Blunt | Our Woven Journey

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Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.