Basic Traveling Tips 

Anytime you cross time zones, whether by plane, car, train, or boat, you jolt your circadian rhythm - the biological clock that controls your body on a 24-hour cycle. The bigger the disruption, the more severe the jolt, and the more fatigue you are likely to suffer. Other causes of jet lag include:

• Pre-travel hustle and bustle as you try to get everything ready for your holiday.
• Dehydration - a result of not stopping to consume enough liquids prior to and during your trip.
• Consumption of alcohol - the effects of which are greatly increased by flying at high altitude.
• Air filled with subtle odors from other passengers, traces of foreign substances, and less oxygen than usual circulating through the plane's ventilation system.
• Long periods of inactivity and no exercise.
• Changes in climate.

All of these things can contribute to a general feeling of malaise and tiredness. In addition, you might also experience:

• Sluggish thought processes and slow reflexes. This can lead to poor decisions behind the wheel of a rental car or costly mistakes in judgment.
• Difficulty sleeping at night.
• Poor appetite or gastrointestinal problems caused by unfamiliar diet and foreign water supply.
• Headaches and sinus irritation.
• Fatigue or downright exhaustion.
• Anxiety, depression, irritability, disorientation.
• Swollen ankles, feet, and fingers.
• Excess perspiration.

Can You Eliminate Jet Lag?

No! You cannot completely eliminate jet lag - but you can lessen it:

• Try to attune your body to the new time zone's schedule before you leave. A day or two ahead of time, set the alarm clock for your new wake-up time and attempt to eat at the mealtimes of your travel destination. If this is not possible or practical, at least relax the day before leaving instead of running around at 100 miles per hour trying to accomplish everything at once.
• Prepare to-do lists ahead of time so that you get a good night's sleep on the last day before you travel. Endeavoring to remember last-minute details may disrupt your night or make falling asleep difficult. Sometimes a relaxing herbal tea or hot shower will encourage sleeping.
• Plan to wear shoes a half size larger during your trip - to compensate for swollen feet.
• Try to book flights that travel in both directions during daylight hours. If there is an important appointment at your destination, ensure that you will arrive well in advance.
• As soon as your plane takes off, set your watch to the new time zone.
• Don't forget to allow for time adjustments if you are taking any kind of medications at regular intervals.
• Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water. Avoid caffeinated beverages or sodas - they contribute to dehydration.
• At your destination, stay away from the local water or any raw fruits, vegetables, or other foods that may have been washed in it. Opt for bottled water (without ice) and cooked food instead.
• Avoid salty foods.
• Get out in the sunshine and fresh air. Staying indoors prolongs jet lag.
• Before going to bed, have another relaxing hot shower. The drop in your body temperature after the shower simulates the circadian rhythm that signals 'sleep ahead'.
• Schedule sightseeing activities for times when you will be most relaxed and rested.

No Two People are Alike

• Plan on about one day of jet lag for each time zone you crossed. Children will rebound more quickly than adults.
• Laid back, easygoing folks are less affected by jet lag than Type A personalities.

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