On our first overseas trip, I had a terrible time with jet lag and fell asleep during meals and shows and took a few days to adjust. On future trips, I wanted to eliminate this awful feeling and lost time. This is the combination that works for me. Experiment and see what works for you.
1.) Water
One of the prime causes of jet lag is dehydration. The cabin air is so dry and causes you to feel fatigued. Take your own water and LOTS of it or you can get water from the flight attendant when possible. When we traveled before liquids were restricted, I packed about 8 or 10 bottles in our carry-on bags and we drank them all and barely had to go to the bathroom during the flight. Since liquids are restricted right now, you can do the same but you would need to purchase the bottles of water after you go through security and before you board the plane.
2.) No Jet Lag tablets
This homeopathic remedy works fantastically well. You take one every two hours when you’re awake and it eliminates symptoms of jet lag. Read reviews and purchase at Amazon.com.
3.) Take a prescription sleep aid
My body ignores over-the-counter sleep aids so before a long flight, I will ask the doctor for a few Ambien pills to take on the trip. You will need to test it out before your trip because there have been stories of people acting like chickens or sleep eating while taking a medicine like Ambien. I’ve also heard people say that Ambien has no effect on them. Assuming it works on you, take a few on your trip and sleep according to the schedule of your destination. It is recommended that you keep prescription medicine in their original containers to expedite the security screening process.
4.) Have a clock set on your new time
Before leaving home, have a watch set on the time of your new destination. Try to adjust your schedule a bit each day to more closely align with the new time. While traveling, sleep and eat according to the new time zone.
5.) Bring your own food and entertainment
Following up the last tip about living according to the new time zone, you will likely need to bring your own stuff to help make that happen because the airplane schedule may not match the schedule of your destination. If you bring your own food, keep it light and healthy. Bring a DVD player or video iPod to watch your own movies. Have ear plugs or headphones plus an eye mask so when others are watching the in-flight movie, you can rest.
Don’t be overly ambitious on your first day at your destination but do try to live on the local schedule. Hopefully these tips will help you avoid missing out on the fun and get your trip off to a fantastic (and non-sleepy) start!
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