Have you ever been so excited for a trip, but by the time you arrive at your destination you feel like you have been zapped of your energy?
You aren’t alone. Traveling is exhausting. And many times, jet lag is to blame — especially when traveling across time zones.
Let’s take a closer look at what jet lag is and how to avoid jet lag with the help of a private jet.
What is Jet Lag?
Your circadian rhythm keeps your body in sync, regulating your wake and sleep cycles. This is why you usually get tired around bedtime and feel more energized and awake in the morning. Your body gets used to the time zone you are in.
When you hop on a plane and change that time zone, it throws everything off balance. For instance, the current time may be 3 pm and your body may feel as though it is 10 pm — and you should be getting ready for bed.
Jet lag doesn’t just impact your sleep, though. It can wreak havoc on so many areas within the body. A few common symptoms of jet lag include:
- Headaches
- Mood swings, including depressed moods
- Daytime sleepiness
- Unable to sleep at night
- Poor physical performance
- Confusion or cognitive issues
- Upset stomach and bloating
- Dehydration
- Skin issues
All of these can be very disruptive to your travels, causing you to not be able to make the most of your getaway — whether for work or fun.
Avoid Jet Lag with a Private Jet
Since jet lag has the power to throw off your physical and mental well-being, it is so important to take steps to reduce it as much as possible. There are a few small steps you can take when traveling commercially in order to try and reduce the symptoms. But, one of the best ways to ensure you feel your best no matter what time zone you land in is to charter a private jet for your travels. Here’s why.
Lower Cabin Pressure
Researchers speculate that cabin pressure has something to do with why exhaustion and travel seem to have such a strong connection.
Breathing should come easy whether you are on the ground or in the air. But cabin pressure on a commercial flight can cause strain on your heart and lungs — making you tired without realizing why.
On a private jet, the cabin pressure is lower. The result? Less work for your heart and lungs.
Flexible Schedules
Having to get up and get to the airport for a 6 am departure means heading to the airport in the middle of the night if you are traveling via a commercial flight. This is a surefire way to kick off your travels by being tired. And that’s before jet lag even has a chance to kick in.
Commercial flights are pre-planned and do not always give you ideal options. Private charters, on the other hand, do. You have the flexibility to choose when you would like to travel so that you can make the most of your trip — with your well-being in mind.
Choosing travel times that will be least disruptive to your sleep patterns can yield the best results.
Comfort Amenities – Including a Bed
The luxurious amenities that come with private travel make it easy to get a good, quality snooze while in the air. Overstuffed chairs that recline just wrap you up in relaxation. It is not uncommon for a jet to have a comfortable bed for you to stretch out, snuggle, and get some sleep.
Control Over Lighting
Because you are the passenger, you have control over lighting in a private jet. So, if you’d like to pull the shades and turn off the lights to get some restful sleep while the sun is still up, you can. Likewise, if it is dark outside, you can light up the interior of the jet to feel awake and alert.
Having control over the lighting for the entire cabin increases your ability to keep your body in balance.
Peaceful Surroundings
Private jet charters are private. Unless you bring them with you, no other passengers are trying to maintain their own space and disrupt yours. No one is talking or making unnecessary noise. And if you choose to get some sleep, you can let your guard down knowing that you are not surrounded by strangers.
On a private jet, you have total control of the cabin space so that you can create a perfect, peaceful space that will benefit you.
Staying Hydrated – And Nourished
Dehydration and stomach upset are common with jet lag. That means staying hydrated and fueling your body with good, healthy foods will help you fight it off.
While some commercial jets will allow you to bring drinks and snacks with you, private jets make it easy by having everything you need onboard for you. Any special requests you have can be made when booking so that you have everything you need to feel your best when it is wheels up.
Additional Tips to Avoid Jet Lag
Finally, avoiding jet lag involves more than just your actual flight. A few additional steps you can take to minimize its impact include:
- Spend time outdoors to let your circadian rhythm adjust to the new time zone.
- Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages – and alcohol
- If you are overly exhausted, take a quick nap to feel refreshed without disrupting nighttime sleep
- Plan for jet lag – don’t hit the road running when you reach your destination
Book Your Private Charter
Believe it or not, by taking these steps, it is possible to travel across multiple time zones and still feel like yourself. So, the next time you need to book a flight, reduce your jet lag by chartering a private jet with The Early Air Way, based in Van Nuys.
Whether traveling across the country or around the world, we can get you there in the most luxurious, comfortable, and private surroundings.
Contact us today! And don’t forget to explore our jet hedging program and empty leg specials!