When you are on an airplane, you are often going long distances. The distance plus the change in time when you arrive might often lead you to what is most commonly known as jet lag. This is your body's attempt to figure out what has happened and to regulate how you feel, suddenly being in another time zone and in another place.

There are several things that you can do to avoid and to fight jet lag. First of all, as soon as you get on the airplane, set your watch to the time that it is in the destination to which you are flying. This way, your brain will begin to be accustomed to the new time zone and will be more likely to accept it when you land. Next, take note of the time that it is at your destination and start to do whatever you would be doing if you were there. For instance, if you get on a flight in the afternoon where you live, but you are going somewhere that is several hours ahead of you, and therefore where it is currently bed time, you should try to sleep on the plane. The sooner that you can get into the mindset of the current time where you are flying, the better off you will be. A lot of the jet lag problems come from your own mind, so as much as you can convince yourself that the time has changed before you land, the better off you will be.

Next, you should stay hydrated on the flight and avoid alcohol. As much rest as you can get on the flight is going to help you greatly. After you have arrived, there are several things that you can do to help yourself get over jet lag as fast as possible.

One of the most important things to remember is as soon as you land at your destination, you should be on the the timetable. It is very hard, but if possible ignore your own body for a couple of days. Sleep when the clock says you should be sleeping and stay awake if it isn't time to be asleep. You might be very tired for a couple of days, but staying on the clock of the place that you have arrived at is the best way to get over jet lag and to be able to enjoy your holiday. Try to avoid the temptation to sleep whenever you feel like it, and stay on a schedule instead!