Tips to Cope with Jetlag

Jet lag happens when you quickly cross time zones and it is a very common side effect of travel. It can affect even the most seasoned travelers; it can really knock you out cold and waste a whole day of fun and travel. Symptoms of jet lag include sleepiness during the day, insomnia at night, poor concentration, hunger at inappropriate times or lack of appetite, and general irritability.It can take several days to recover if you don't take the right precautions and every day on a trip is precious so you don't want to waste them feeling tired and groggy.  Here are a few tips that have worked for me in the past:

Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate: Dehydration is one of the symptoms of jet lag, so drink as much water as you can. Its recommended to drink a glass of water for every hour you are on the plane. 

Sleep on the Plane: I know this can be difficult for lots of people, but try to get as much sleep as you can on the plane. Traveling can be very exhausting and the more rest you get the more ready your body will be to handle jet lag.

Sleeping Pills: Going along with the last tip, I have taken sleeping pills on longer flights to help me get some rest. But, you definitely need to be careful and time it right. A plane is also not the first time to try out a sleeping pill. 

Stick to Destination's Clock: When you arrive make sure to stick to the schedule of your new destination, this includes your sleeping schedule and also your eating schedule. If you arrive in the afternoon, wait it out, try not to go sleep until a normal hour. 

Keep Busy: On your first day in a new country, try and keep busy. Fill your day with fun activities so you aren't tempted to take a nap.

Sunlight: Get out in the sun! It will help your body reset it internal clock faster.

Exercise: A quick jog or brisk walk can reinvigorate you and help you make it through the day.

What are some tips and tricks that have helped you in the past to get over jet lag?