So… it looks like you might actually make that trip overseas after it was re-scheduled a couple of times (or more). Are you feeling out of practice? When’s the last time you crossed multiple time zones? These questions are top of mind for many of you, so I thought I would dedicate some space to managing jet lag.
In normal (non-pandemic) times, Bob and I are in Europe two or three times per year. I don’t adjust well… I love my sleep, and I don’t sleep well on planes. As every year advances, I find it more difficult to make the adjustment. So, I’ve had to build a more deliberate strategy when I go to Europe or Asia (or really when I’m crossing more than 4 time zones to anywhere).
Here’s my strategy starting about a week before I leave. The examples I use here are for flying eastward (to Europe), so I have to adjust this list when I fly to Asia or Australia/NZ.
- Advance my “clock” one hour each day, for a week prior to departure. This is easier said than done, and existing commitments may mean you have to compromise here and there, but essentially, it means going to bed one hour earlier, and getting up one earlier EACH day for the week prior to departure. I usually fly from the west coast (9-hour time change to Europe), so if you’re flying from the east coast, you can start 4 or 5 days in advance.
- “Live” in the time zone of my destination. This means earlier meals, as well as adjusted bedtimes for the final days before departure.
- Change my watch to destination time as soon as I board the plane. The inflight services the airlines provide are timed for their convenience, NOT for helping you adjust your rhythm. Based on the time at your destination, figure out if you should be eating when the meal cart comes around, or if you should be asleep.
- Sleep on the plane if it’s nighttime at my destination. This is the one I struggle with the most. Some people take melatonin or sleeping pills. Not everyone is willing to do this, and you’ll want to consult your physician and make your own best judgment. At the very least, earplugs and an eye-mask can greatly increase your chances of getting rest on the plane.
- Drink water, not wine on the plane. This one I struggle with almost as much as the one above (!!), but I know it’s important to remain hydrated to help my body adjust to the interruption of its circadian rhythms that I’m subjecting it to.
- Consider Premium Economy. Business Class flights overseas are cost prohibitive for many of us, but Premium Economy is only a few hundred dollars more, and provides much more space than “cattle class”. It’s easier to sleep, and I’m more comfortable on a long flight.
- Add a one-day buffer at my arrival point. If I’m doing a cruise or land tour, I always arrive at least one day early, knowing my first day on the ground is not going to be productive. I usually don’t feel well, so I find it’s best to kick back and allow some time to adjust (hard to do if I schedule myself to hit the ground running). In some cases, I have even taken an airport hotel for one night upon arrival (much more cost effective in cities like London, Paris, or Rome), and then moved closer into the city the next day to start my trip.
- Hydration and poop. Sorry… it has to be discussed. I use rehydration formulas (you can buy them anywhere) for my first 2 or 3 days upon arrival and do my very best to become regular as it relates to all bodily functions. This may mean altering what I eat the first day or two I’m on the ground.
- Sleep with the drapes open. I want to be exposed to sunlight in the morning at my destination to quickly adjust my body-clock. If I can get outside into direct bright sunlight, that’s even better.
The return trip home: Remember, you get to do this all over again when you return home! However, most times it’s easier on the return because you can adjust in the comfort of your own home. The one rule I’ve started to follow on our return journeys: Never drive home from the airport.
If you’re flying across more than 3 or 4 time zones, you will definitely be compromised. You will not be as alert as you should be to operate a motor vehicle. If you can have someone pick you up, that is great, but if not then a taxi or Uber is probably in order. Its usually costs less than long term parking at the airport, anyway.
We’re overcoming some jet lag ourselves, so we don’t have any specific travel opportunities for this week!
Have something to say about this?
Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/3233272896955202
If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sue Bradley
Sue Bradley
