Traveling Overseas on Business? Expert Tips on Beating Jet Lag

Business travel is a reality for many professionals. Unlike vacation, though, overseas work trips rarely afford you time to get your bearings. And while a bit of jet lag may be unavoidable, there are some things you can do to lessen its affects.

Read on to learn how to beat jet lag right.

It’s all about the time zone

If you’re going to ward off the wooziness associated with jet lag, it’s important to put yourself in the time zone you’re traveling to as soon as possible. That starts with getting some sleep, when applicable, on the plane. If you can, you might even try and make the shift in advance at home.

Give yourself quiet and space

With en route sleep in mind, get yourself the best seating arrangement you can afford. Business class may cost more, but the ability to recline your seat can be priceless. In the case of economy, having a little extra legroom helps, too. To further assist you with settling in, turn off electronics. That includes bypassing that movie you think will help you sleep. (Spoiler alert: it tends to have the opposite effect.) Noise cancelling headphones may be helpful, and using a sleep mask comes in handy when faking the time of day.

Sleep aids might help

As long as you have a seven or eight-hour flight ahead of you, taking a sleep aid responsibly may help you snooze. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking anything new, including over-the-counter medications. If you’re planning on using a prescription med of any kind, it’s essential to make an appointment well in advance of your business trip.

Skip the caffeine — but stay hydrated

Even when you’re on the way to the airport, it’s best to skip that cup of Joe. Otherwise, you might have trouble sleeping on board. Stick instead with decaffeinated beverages. Additionally, because dry, depressurized cabins tend to dehydrate you quickly, drink a lot of water throughout your flight. Although drinking water won’t technically prevent jet lag, doing so will keep you from feeling worse. As for alcoholic beverages, don’t overindulge since a bad headache doesn’t help anyone sleep.

Avoid naps

While you may be tempted to get some rest once you arrive, a word to the wise: do not take naps. If you’re going to combat jet lag, you need to stay awake until your normal bedtime in your new time zone. Yes, it can be hard, but it’s essential. The same applies to when you return home.

On the flipside, if you’re jetting off to, say, Europe, for a meeting but then returning right back home, stick to your home time zone. In fact, do this anytime your trip is 48 hours or less.

What are some of your best tips for beating jet lag? Share below in the comments!

By: Jennifer O.