What is the best jet lag sleeping aid?

Question

I am taking a long trip in October (Atlanta-Paris-Kiev), and I was just wondering if there are any effective jet lag aids out there. I can't sleep on the plane on my own, and I want to sleep through most of my flight.

Answer 1

Tylenol PM and Benadryl usually work but try it first.  Many meds can leave you groggy long after you need to be awake.  I just use aspirin.

Other hints:

Join the frequent flier program for the airline, unless you already belong to a "partner" program.  Joining is free and you can do it online.

Check www.seatguru.com for seat suggestions.  I usually try to get a window seat on really long flights and gather some extra pillows & blankets to make a "bed" to lean against.  Call the airline and request a seat as early as allowed.  Also ask if the aircraft has power ports that you can use for i-Pod, etc.

Consider getting a sleep mask (ex. www.mindfold.com) and some earplugs, which may help you sleep (they work for me). Luggage stores and airport shops also sell sleep masks.

I-Pods and portable game devices are great on planes, but the batteries won't last more than a few hours.  Pack one or more books that you have started, or that are from an author you know.  It's really annoying to realize - too late - the book you brought for the flight isn't a good read. Other options are crossword puzzles and similar.  A laptop is practical IF the aircraft is equipped with power ports (which can also re-charge an i-Pod or game device).

Pack a complete change of clothes and basic toiletries in your carryon bag.  Check the security requirements at: www.tsa.gov

Dress in comfortable clothes and shoes that are not too tight (or overly casual).  Your feet will swell during a long flight and tight clothes can make it harder to sleep.

I try to shower just before leaving to go to the airport.  It reduces the grungy feeling you get by the end of a long flight. Use conditioner to reduce hair frizziness.

Tag all of your bags (inside and outside) with your name, e-mail address (but not your home address) and a complete phone number someone will answer.  The free tags from the check-in counter are fine.

Make sure you have your passport or ID and other documents on you before leaving home.

Get to the airport 2 full hours before departure so you don't have to stress.  

Chewing gum can help with relieving the pressure in your ears.

Drink lots of water and juice:  The air in the cabin is very dry and causes dehydration.  Avoid too many drinks with caffeine (including colas) or alcohol as they can increase the dehydration.

Get up and stretch every few hours.

Try to awaken about an hour before arrival and use the bathroom to wash up.  You will feel a lot better.

The time change can be a problem, and a long flight will produce a lot of "jet-lag". At your destination, try very hard to eat meals at local times and stay awake until local bedtime.  If you MUST take a nap then sleep for no more than 3 hours.  Falling asleep at 3:00pm may result in you waking up at Midnight - wide awake and unable to go back to sleep.

Hope you have a great trip!

Answer 2

best sleeping aid is without question .... Ambien.  its prescription so youll need to see your doctor.  he should have no problem giving you a few for the trip.  the other sleep aids the guy with the long answer suggested are decent options ...... but are childs play compared to Ambien.  warning though ..... do NOT take it until youre ready to sleep.  it works rather quickly.  i typically take it as im eating the first meal, and will have no memory of my tray being removed by the flight attendant.  i fly to Asia a lot from Los Angeles .... im typically asleep an hour into the flight and wake up around Japan .... a good 10 hours later.

as for recovering from jet lag.  i think its all mental, no sure fire pill.  what i do ...... no matter what, when you get home ..... NO NAPS.  force yourself to stay awake until youre ready to go to bed for the night.  you take naps ..... youre dead.  no matter how tired you get, stay awake.