Beat the Clock, Crush The Jet Lag

Read time: 3 minutes

Ever landed in a new country feeling like your internal clock decided to rebel?

Understanding time zones is crucial for a smooth trip, helping you avoid those "why am I craving toast at 3 AM?" moments! We'll provide the exact time difference for your destination when you book.

Generally, jet lag is worse when flying east because you're shortening your day, forcing your body to adjust forward. Flying west is often easier as you're lengthening your day, which aligns more naturally with your body's rhythm. Interestingly, distance doesn't always mean jet lag; you can fly to South Africa from the UK with minimal effects. Here are some tips on how to outsmart that pesky jet lag and hit the ground running.

• Ease Into It: A few days before you even leave, gradually shift your sleep schedule a little closer to your destination's time. Even nudging it by an hour or two can make a big difference when you land!

• Hydrate: This is a big one! Make sure you're sipping plenty of water throughout your flight. Dehydration can honestly make jet lag feel so much worse.

• Eat Light & Smart: On the plane, opt for lighter meals. Heavy food can make you feel more sluggish and contribute to that "fuzzy head" feeling.

• Embrace The Light: As soon as you arrive, get some natural daylight. It's like a magic reset button for your internal clock! On the flip side, avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, especially close to your intended sleep time.

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Jet lag can be tougher on little ones. But don't you worry – here are a few extra tips to help your little adventurers adjust more smoothly:

• Slow Shifts: Try gently moving their bedtime by just 15-30 minutes a few days before you leave. Those small changes really can prevent a big shock to their system!

• Stick to Routine: Once you arrive, try your best to get them back on their normal routine for meals and sleep as quickly as possible. Even if it means waking them up a little earlier than they'd prefer for the first day or two, it truly helps them adapt faster.

• Be flexible: Remember to be prepared for some tired moments. It's okay! Build in some quiet downtime or even naps when needed. Happy kids make for happy holidays!​

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Ultimately, we want you and your family to feel refreshed and ready to explore.

Get in touch with us about your next holiday!