The last thing you want getting in the way of a rewarding incentive trip is jet lag. One of the major mistakes people make as they prepare for their incentive trip is forgetting to account for possible jet lag.
Jet lag is a real pain, and the misery that comes with traveling through time zones is not a myth. This feeling of tiredness can effect your mood and possibly half of your trip if you are not careful. The fatigue and disruption of our internal clock can literally make you lose a day or two with just one time zone difference. Tack this on to the stress of airports and it can really wear on your psyche. But don’t freak out! We’ve got some tried and true tips for you to beat the dreaded jet lag:
1. 48-Hour Prep
Trick yourself into believing you’re leaving two days before your actual departure date. This way you can give your body and mind a head start by being packed and ready to go ahead of time. And then use the extra time to get extra sleep and rest as much as possible to help your body fight the inevitable jet lag. Being as rested as you can before your departure means a smoother flight and a better chance of avoiding that jet lag.
Bosses: This is a great tactic to discuss with your employees as you pump them up for the upcoming incentive trip.
2. Avoid the Bar
Alcohol and altitude are a bad mix, especially if you’re traveling through time zones. That one cocktail may increase your fatigue and dehydrate you. This also goes for caffeine-heavy stuff like coffee, and most energy drinks. They’ll end up doing the opposite of what you want. What’s the best drink of choice? Water! Seriously, lack of water will make or break you. Stay hydrated and fight that jet lag! Even if you’re not feeling thirsty, make sure to refill your water every hour and drink up!
3. Nap on the Flight
If you can get a good long nap in on the plane then you’ll be ahead of the game once you finally land. Slap on an eye mask, use earplugs to block out noise, or choose the most boring in-flight movie you can find. If you can, splurge on a good pair of noise cancelling headphones and put on some relaxing music. If you feel comfortable enough, a natural sleep aid, such as an organic melatonin supplement, can be taken and assist you into a deep slumber. Do whatever it takes to fall asleep naturally.
4. Keep it Moving
If you can’t seem to get a nap in, try moving around. Get your blood flowing. Once you’ve landed, keep it moving. Get some fresh air if you can, stay out in the sun and take a jog if you are up for it. This can be a great way to see the town or city you are staying in and get to know what restaurants, activities, and amenities are around you. Jet lag wants you to be miserable, give up and forfeit. Don’t! Fight back by getting some exercise!
5. Watch your Bedtime
Don’t go to sleep too early, even if you’re dead tired, because that will only hurt you the next day. We know, we know, all you want to do after a long flight with your disruptive fellow passengers is to flop right into your comfy hotel bed and sleep for what feels like the rest of eternity. Try to resist this urge. You don’t want to disrupt your schedule any further. Stay up until local bedtime and set an alarm for a halfway decent time in the morning. You will be glad you did!
Follow these five easy tips and you’ll be well on your way to minimizing jet lag and maximizing fun while on your incentive trip! Enjoy!
