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It’s hard to believe that jet-setting to different countries can have a downside — but it does. Jet lag (also called desynchronosis) is an actual temporary medical condition related to a sleep disorder induced by rapidly traveling through time zones. Honeymooners crossing one or two time zones — fear not — you’ll be fine. But for those travelers heading to an Italian escape, African Safari, Bali beaches and more — check out our tips for beating bridal jet lag to make the most of every moment.
Stay Hydrated
It’s no secret how important it is to stay hydrated while traveling. The circulated air and high altitude can do a number on your skin, and energy levels before you even factor in jet lag. As a general rule of thumb, try to drink about 8oz of water at least every 90 minutes while in air. Enough to keep you going — but to limit the amount of annoying in-flight bathroom breaks!
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
While it may be tempting to drink until you’re ready to sleep, or sip coffee to fight back against the snooze struggles, your efforts run the risk of backfiring. Overconsumption of both alcohol and caffeine can result in dehydration, headaches, upset stomach, fatigue — the list goes on. Some say jet lag can feel like a hangover — imagine jet lag PLUS a hangover? No thanks.
Move
A general rule of thumb is that movement makes things better. Improve circulation and alertness with stretches and short walks when you can. Even shifting your seated position can help make you more comfortable. When you’re feeling really sleepy at inappropriately timed hours — try a brisk walk to get your heart rate going and get a natural jolt of energy to help adapt.
Ease in to It
For seasoned travelers, many opt to ease in to the time changes a few days prior to their departure. By waking an hour earlier or heading to bed an hour later each day for a few days, you can begin a slower transition. Also, many opt for flights that will arrive in the early evening, leaving enough time for dinner and decompression — but not much else — resulting in a hopefully “normal” bed time for new arrivals.
Adapt Quickly
Changing your watch and phone times to that of your destination as soon as you take off can help you become acclimated mid-air, versus feeling jarred by the shifts upon landing. The earlier you are on destination time, the better. It’s not uncommon to take a red-eye, arrive at 7AM and crave dinner food — but opt for traditional breakfast items for breakfast, lunch for lunch, and — you guessed it — dinner for dinner. The sooner you become acclimated, the less of an effect jet lag will have on your trip.
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