Jet lag can be defined as “extreme tiredness and other physical effects felt by a person after a long flight across different time zones”. For those of us who travel long haul, we don’t need the dictionary definition to know the havoc that crossing time zones can have on our bodies. As well as extreme fatigue other effects can include loss of appetite, memory and concentration issues, bowel and digestive problems and irritability. Unfortunately, these effects can last anywhere from a few days to a week or more. Not a great way to start your dream holiday in a different time zone!
No one wants to suffer the effects of jet lag when they arrive in their dream destination – we all want to get straight out there and experience all it has to offer! Fortunately, there are some actions you can take which may reduce the impact of jet lag on your travel experience. These include:
Before you get on the plane:

• Make sure you have had enough sleep. You don’t want to start your trip tired, it will only get worse
• Make small changes to adapt to your new time zone before you leave, start to go to bed later / earlier for a few days before you fly, depending on whether you are flying westward or eastward, so that your body clock is already starting to adjust to your new time zone

During your flight:

• Drink lots of water
• Try to sleep on the plane as if the time is that of your destination (change your watch straight away to your destination time zone)
• Eat small meals frequently, choosing healthy and light options where possible
• Limit or avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Whenever possible, walk around the cabin

When you arrive:

• Expose yourself to daylight – this will help to reset your body clock
• Make sure you get enough sleep
• Don’t take caffeinated beverages after lunchtime

If you are still feeling the effects of jet lag after a few days, or if you are feeling particularly unwell you should always see a doctor.

 If you google “must have travel accessories” a multitude of options are presented – fluffy pillows that pack down to the size of a fingernail, expandable luggage that will fit all your holiday impulse buys with ease. But being the practical travellers we are here at The Inspired Travel Guide we have condensed these options to 4 practical must haves for your next trip. Check these out below.

Bluetooth Enabled Trackers
There are a few options here – but one of the most popular would have to be the Tile Bluetooth tracker. Coming in a few different versions – Tile is a small Bluetooth tracker which combines with an app that allows you to locate items. Place one on your luggage and never lose it again! Easy to buy at your local electronics store – surely a must have. If you are a die hard Apple fan then the Apple AirTag provides an option which will work with your “Find My” app – allowing Siri to do search for you!

Luggage Scale
Have you ever been the traveller unpacking their luggage at the check in counter – putting on 7 layers of clothing and stuffing your pockets in an effort to make the luggage weight restriction? With a compact luggage scale you can check your bags weight before you get to the airport. The Korjo Digital Luggage Scale is compact and light – easily slipping into your luggage or handbag to allow you to avoid the embarrassment and cost of overweight luggage at check in.

Whether you are taking your first trip with a child, or have taken many with several children – travelling with children can fill you with anxiety. Our recommendation is always say yes to travel – but maybe with some extra planning. So read on to check out our top tips for travelling with kids below:
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Research
A little time spent researching your destination up front will make a huge difference to your ability to enjoy things when you arrive. It isn’t worth packing a stroller if there aren’t good paved sidewalks at your destination. Does your child need any vaccinations before they travel? Does the villa you have booked have a pool fence? Does your baby need a Visa? Research your destination well before you begin to pack to save yourself time and unnecessary drama when you arrive.

Pack something new for the plane / train / car
An oldy but a goody – pack a new toy, snack, book etc to distract your child whilst travelling to your destination. For babies this could be a new teething ring or toy, for older children this could be a new book, a game or movie downloaded onto the iPad. Save this to be pulled out just when they are getting bored and unsettled – the ultimate distraction for them and sanity saver for you.
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Consider an apartment rather than a hotel room
As great as hotels are for getting away, it is nice to know that when you get to your destination you can stock up a fridge and make some of your own meals, or do some clothes washing mid trip. For this reason, a hotel suite with a kitchenette and laundry or an apartment might be better suited. It doesn’t sound as glamorous, but when you have baby vomit all over every outfit you have brought with you two days into your holiday you will be thankful for the washing machine. Having an apartment or a suite with a bedroom door you can close will also mean that the whole family doesn’t need to go to bed when it is lights out for the 5 year old.

Take enough nappies and baby food
Whilst usually we would always advise not to overpack - this is one exception. Pack all the baby milk formula, baby food and nappies you may need to take with you. Don’t rely on picking some up at your destination – its never fun to run around at 2am in a strange city looking for the right sized nappies. You can always pick up other items at your destination – but you don’t want to mess with these essentials. If you are travelling overseas you may also want to take sterilizing tablets and any basic medication your child may need during the trip.

Give Yourself Time!
Don’t make things more stressful than they need to be by not giving yourself plenty of time to get places. Toddlers (and more often than not – teenagers) will always need to go to the bathroom right as you are ready to leave. Sure, you can rush everyone along, but it is just going to increase the stress levels for everyone. Give yourself enough time to get places, for transit and enough downtime in between sightseeing to relax.
 
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