We’ve all been there … you get to the trip you’ve been planning for and been excited about for months, and then the extreme fatigue, disorientation, and disrupted sleep patterns hit HARD. It really is a drag. But we’ve put together some of our team’s favorite tips for avoiding jet lag and making travel a more enjoyable experience …

1. 1. Adjust your schedule in advance
      In the days leading up to your trip, start to gradually shift your sleep schedule to help your body acclimate to the new time zone. Half and hour here, an hour there …
   2. Stay hydrated
      This one is IMPORTANT! Dehydration can exacerbate jet lag symptoms, so it’s important to drink plenty of water both before and during your flight. Want to keep your water bottle close in transit? We love this Crossky drink holster that holds a couple bottles or cups on your suitcase!
   3. Exercise regularly on your trip
      Exercise helps regulate your body’s internal clock, reducing the impact of jet lag. This one should be easy since we’re literally called jetsweaters! Look for a workout on your trip on our find a workout page!
   4. Limit alcohol and caffeine
      Don’t get mad at us for this one … we were sad about it, too. But both can disrupt sleep patterns, making it harder for your body to adjust to the new time zone. (But we’re not usually mad at a bloody mary at 30,000ft because Cornell published a scientific study that proved that bloody marys actually taste better on a plane!)
   5. Build up your sleep bank before you leave for your trip
      Try to get plenty of sleep both before and during your trip. If you’re feeling tired, take a nap or rest when you can.
   6. Use light exposure to your advantage
      Natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock, so, once at your final destination, try to get outside and expose yourself to sunlight during the day. In the evening, avoid screens and bright lights that can interfere with your body’s sleep cycle. (But, also always do this.)
   7. Try melatonin
      (Duh, right?) We’ve all tried Melatonin, one of the hormones that helps regulate your body’s sleep/wake cycle, and it works for some of us. Consider taking a low dose before bed to lull you to sleep and help  to begin regulating your sleep patterns to coordinate with the new time zone.
   8. Eat well
      Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help keep your energy levels up and reduce the impact of jet lag. Also, this one’s always suggested.
   9. Download the Timeshifter app
      … and let it do the work for you! Sign up for this app early, and it will tell you when to expose yourself to light, how much ‘tonin to take, and when to curb your caffeine intake. The app will literally make a personalized plan for you to follow before, during, and after your trip.
   10. Get comfy on the plane
       One of our co-founders has her go-to guide for a perfect flight … visit her “Travel Must-Haves” list and get ready for the most comfortable flight of your life.

We know some of these tips to avoid jet lag aren’t the most fun, but by following them, you can minimize jet lag symptoms and make travel a more enjoyable experience. Then you’ll have more energy to go out there and enjoy your hike, yoga session, and your trip in general! … because who wants to sleep through life?!