Flying with toddlers and twins | 7 x How to beat a jetlag

Flying with kids is never easy. But when you’re dealing with a jetlag on top of it, it can be even tougher. You’ve just arrived home from a long trip, and you’re feeling jetlagged and exhausted.

But you can’t just take a nap, because you’ve got kids to take care of. So how do you deal with a jetlag and still be a good parent? Well-timed light exposure and exercise can help you overcome jet lag faster.

Here are a few tips on how to battle a jetlag with kids in tow

Get everyone on the same schedule

This can be tough, but it’s important to try to get everyone on the same sleep schedule. This will help everyone adjust to the new time zone more quickly. I am not saying it is easy, but you can always try. This might be easier with older kids and toddlers.

Take naps

Naps are the key for dealing with a jetlag. If your kids are old enough, let them take a nap on the plane. If the plane is not landing you can take your toddler on your lap and let them cuddle with you until they fall asleep. They might be more comfortable on your lap and fall asleep quicker then on the plane seat. To help combat jet lag when travelling, we do our best to keep naps and bedtime consistent. Which means keeping our routine and doing the same stuff like we do at home. We usually bring a favorite blanket and a couple of books. After that we do our bedtime routine in the same order as at home. 

After your toddler fell asleep on your lap or on the chair you can real quick fall asleep too. If they’re too old for a nap, try to at least let them rest for a bit on the plane. Laying down with a headset on their ears counts for rest too.

Get outside

Getting some fresh air and sunlight can help reset your body clock. So as soon as you arrive at your destination, check in the hotel, apartment or what so over. And explore the area, you do not need to add yourself in the touristic sights no, take a stroll sit down somewhere and get a drink. Hold a picknick or stroll around in town.

Get some exercise

An exercise isn’t just good for your health, it can also work to keep your circadian rhythmA quick walk or run will help you wake up and feel more energized. This will speed up the process of the jetlag. Also, void exercise before bed, both while traveling and when back home, as this can make it much harder to fall asleep. 

Eat healthy and at local times

Avoid processed foods and sugar, which can make you feel even more tired. Studies show that by adjusting to eating your meals at local time instead of when you would normally eat, that you ‘reset your body clock. I would recommend small meals and snacks during your flight is best and add big meals according the new time zone.

Get some sunlight

Step outside for a few minutes to help adjust your body’s natural clock. Bright light exposure is the most powerful way to cause a phase shift. Just as light in the early morning makes you wake up earlier and light around bed time makes you wake up later. This simple insight can be used to minimise jet lag.

Go to bed early

Even if you can’t sleep, resting will help you feel better the next day. If you’re traveling east, try going to bed one hour earlier each night for a few days before your trip. If you’re flying west, go to bed one hour later for several nights before you fly.

Dealing with a jetlag and kids can be tough, but if you follow these tips, you will survive 😉