Whether it’s a long weekend in New York City or a two-week retreat to Thailand, there’s no excitement quite like a long-haul holiday.
But there is one problem with flying outside of Europe: the inevitable jet lag.
Jet lag, which leaves us feeling lethargic and unable to regulate our sleep cycle, happens when we fly across different time zones.
It’s a temporary sleep disorder caused by our circadian rhythms being interrupted,among other factors.
While it might not last forever, it can be a nuisance – particularly if you’re trying to enjoy your holiday or ease back into work when you return.
In fact, jet lag is such a pain that, according to new research from hospitality group YOTEL, 27% of Brits have reported calling in sick to work because of it.
Meanwhile, 29% claimed that it has a negative impact on their ability to enjoy a trip once they arrive, whilst 32% reported being put off by long-haul travel entirely because of jet lag.
There are ways to ease jet lag symptoms, though. In fact, the new study saw 18% of Brits swear by compression socks, whilst 7% admitted to wearing sunglasses indoors and 12% swore by loud music.
So, is there something behind using the popular compression socks method to combat jet lag?
Scientifically, there isn’t enough evidence to prove that it helps, but as travel expert at ladyjaney.co.uk Jane Hawkes tells Metro.co.uk, they could help with ‘improved circulation’ and ‘a better flight experience.’
How to avoid jet lag
Apparently, Jane’s top tip for avoiding jet lag is to lay off the caffeine and alcohol.
‘It might be tempting to have a few cups of coffee to stay alert and awake, but you could end up with an even fuzzier head. Due to its sedative properties, alcohol may help you fall asleep quicker,’ Jane advises.
‘It can impact your overall quality of sleep and a hangover, as well as jet lag, will make you feel even worse. Listen to soothing podcasts and meditation apps to induce sleep and reinvigorate by drinking lots of water instead.’
Likewise, making gradual changes to both your bedtime and meal routines before your flight can help you adjust quicker when you reach your destination.
‘If you are usually in bed by 10pm and the time zone you are heading to means that you’ll have to stay awake for a lot longer, edge bedtime first to 11pm then midnight and 1am,’ Jane adds.
‘Equally, if you’re not a morning person but you’re going to have to be up with the larks when away, nudge your daily wake-up times earlier before you fly.
‘A general rule is that the number of days you will be jet lagged will equal the number of time zones you cross if travelling East, and two-thirds that number if travelling West.’
How to avoid jet lag, according to an expert
- Shift all your activities to match the local time upon boarding
‘Change your watch immediately and align your meal times (even if not hungry) and sleep, light and dark schedules accordingly,’ sleep expert Dr Charlotte Edelsten recommends.
- Stay hydrated
Water, water, water!
‘Stay hydrated before, during and after the flight. Flights are naturally dehydrating so sip water as much as possible,’ Dr Charlotte adds.
- Book a flight that lands during the day
‘Try to book a flight that lands during the day time, get outside as soon as you land and get as much natural light as possible.’
- Try not to nap when you arrive
‘Don’t take a nap upon arrival, this will help your body adjust more quickly to the new time zone and will aid in resetting your internal clock,’ Dr Charlotte suggests.
‘Napping will reduce your sleep pressure, which we need to be as high as possible to ensure good sleep initiation and maintenance.’
- Prioritise rest beforehand
‘Try to prioritise your sleep in the weeks and days leading up to your flight, going into travel well rested will help lessen the impact of jet lag.’
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
MORE : The coldest city in the world where temperatures fall to -42C and there’s brutal ‘ice fog’
MORE : Map reveals where new rail routes could be introduced across the UK
MORE : ‘I buried my father in paradise, but what happened next was hell’
Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.
Sign up here...
Privacy Policy
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
