Long Flights, Jet Lag, and the Secret Ingredients to Thriving While You Travel
There is something really special about getting to visit another country. It is such a priviledge to be immersed in different customs and landscapes, meet new people, enjoy unique food and check out from the daily rhythems of our lives. There is one aspect of traveling internationally though that can be intimidating–it’s the GETTING THERE (especially if you’re someone like me who craves and prioritizes a good nights sleep). I am not the best sleeper on a plane and getting adjusted to new time zones and feeling like yourself can be a challenge. So new on my blog, I’m sharing my carry-on checklist and top tips for beating jet leg and getting your body clock calibrated to make the most of your vacation.
Airline Loyalty
While this may not do much to help you sleep on a plane, I think it pays to be loyal to an airline especially as over time you can build point/miles to earn those complimentary upgrades. Another tip is to check the seat map as it gets closer and note those rows that are sometimes unoccupied. One my last trip to Europe, I actually had a seat in Comfort+, but as it was a window seat and I didn’t want to disturb the person next to me, I took a downgrade and parked it in main cabin as I had an entire row to myself.
Carry-On For Comfort
For long flights, having a repetoire of your favorite items to ensure you remain as comfortable and entertained as possible is a must. I like to get up and move every hour I’m not sleeping–this will help ease stiffness, improve circulation and reduce those swollen feet. I also make sure my watch is set to the destination time–this helps reset my mind as if I’m already in Europe or wherever my adventure is taking me to. When I’m having a hard time falling asleep or relaxing on the flight, I practice box-breathing or meditation. And in my carry-on, I have these items always packed:
- Passport (and make a photocopy to store in your luggage)
- Snacks: items that are healthy and easy to pack are my go to. Chomps beef sticks, protein bars and fresh veggies/fruit.
- Reusable water bottle
- Electrolytes (I love LMNT)
- Any medications, vitamins that you need during your travels
- Sleep aides (I’ve had good luck with melatonin)
- Comfy socks
- Packable blanket or scarf
- Neck pillow
- Eye mask
- Ear plugs
- Charging code & external battery for your electronics
- Headphones
- A good book
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Facial wipes or facial mist
- Glasses, contact case, contact solution
- Lotion
- Hand sanitizer (I like OnGuard Spray by doterra)
- Change of clothes (in case luggage is delayed)
Once You’ve Arrived
To me the most important step once you’ve arrived to your destination is to get on local time as quickly as possible. If you arrive in the morning, allow yourself no more than an hour nap and then get outside and walk and be as active as possible. Enjoy dinner and settle in for a good nights sleep. If you wake up in the middle of the night, don’t stress. It’s just part of the transition and I find if I avoid the electronics and pick up my book, I’m more likely to go back to sleep. Once you’re up for the day, head outside and get some morning light! No sunglasses–just five or 10 minutes of natural light and this will help your circadiam rhythm adjust and you’ll beat jet that much quicker.
Mindset
Overall, the most important tip for adjusting to the inevitiable “exhausted” moments that will happen during a travel day all comes down to our mindset. Of course these are “first-world” problems, but try and take those turbulent moments, travel delays, or long lines and flip the script in your mind. Positive thinking fosters resilience and helps us relax and gain some perspective. We “get to” experience a delay, because we are on our way to an unforgettable adventure. We “get to” be tired because our feet are walking through a country we’ve never experienced before seeing some unforgettable sights. Interrupt anxiety with gratitude and your moments of overwhelm will disappear.
Are you dreaming of an international destination? I am a Certified Travel Advisor and would love to work with you and plan vacations all over the world including Iceland, river cruises, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and more! Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.
