👑 Used by the British Royal Family!👑

Say Goodbye to Jetlag: Top Tips For Traveling Long Haul with Kids

April 26, 2023

Say Goodbye to Jetlag: Top Tips For Traveling Long Haul with Kids

Family travel can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to long-haul flights and the dreaded jetlag. Jetlag is a temporary disruption to our circadian rhythm caused by flying across time zones. It can cause fatigue, headaches, and insomnia, making it difficult to enjoy your vacation. When you add kids to the mix, it can become even more complicated. However, with the right planning and preparation, you can beat jetlag with kids and enjoy a stress-free vacation.

Plan Ahead

Planning is crucial when it comes to beating jetlag with kids. If possible, try to book a flight that arrives in the late afternoon or early evening. This way, you'll have enough time to settle into your accommodation and get the kids ready for bed. You can also adjust your kids' sleep schedule a few days before your trip, so they're already used to the new time zone.

Another important factor to consider is your flight itinerary. If you have a layover, try to choose a connecting flight with a longer layover. This will give you and your kids enough time to rest and stretch your legs before boarding the next flight. You can also look for airlines that offer in-flight entertainment, so your kids can stay entertained during the flight.

Comfort is Key

When traveling with kids, comfort is essential. Make sure your kids wear comfortable clothes and shoes, so they can move around freely and sleep comfortably on the plane. You can also bring a neck pillow and a light blanket to help your kids sleep better on the plane. If your kids are sensitive to noise and light, bring noise-cancelling headphones and an eye mask to block out any distractions.

Toddler Sleeping on Planes

One of the biggest challenges of traveling with toddlers is getting them to sleep on planes. Toddlers are often too big for a bassinet, but too small to sleep comfortably in their seats. This is where comfort aids such as Plane Pal come in handy. Plane Pal is an inflatable cushion that fits between your child's seat and the seat in front, creating a flat surface for your child to lie down and sleep comfortably. It's easy to inflate and deflate, and it comes with a hand pump and a carry bag for easy storage.

To use Plane Pal, you need to book a seat for your toddler and ensure that you have enough legroom for the cushion. You can then cover the cushion with a blanket or sheet, so your child feels more comfortable. Plane Pal is suitable for children aged 2-8 years old and can be used on most airlines.

Beat Jetlag with Smart Sleeping Strategies

The key to beating jetlag with kids is to get enough sleep and stay hydrated. Encourage your kids to drink plenty of water before and during the flight, and avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. You can also pack healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, and crackers to keep your kids energized.

When it comes to sleeping on the plane, there are a few strategies you can use. If your kids are tired, encourage them to sleep as much as possible, even if it's not their usual sleep time. You can also create a bedtime routine, such as reading a book or listening to soothing music, to help your kids relax and fall asleep faster. If your kids are still struggling to sleep, you can try using natural sleep aids such as lavender oil or melatonin supplements (but always check with your pediatrician first). The best melatonin supplement we've found are in the form of a gummy and are made by a compnay called Olly who make a whole range of supplements for the entire family.

Take Advantage of Daylight

Exposure to natural daylight is one of the best ways to reset your circadian rhythm and beat jetlag. Once you've arrived at your destination, try to spend as much time as possible outdoors during daylight hours. You can take a walk in the 

park, go for a swim, or simply sit outside and soak up the sun. This will help your body adjust to the new time zone and overcome jetlag faster. It's also a great way to explore your destination and bond with your family.

Conclusion

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with the right planning and preparation, you can beat jetlag and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Remember to plan ahead, prioritize comfort, and take advantage of natural daylight. And if you're traveling with a toddler, don't forget to consider comfort aids such as Plane Pal to help your little one sleep comfortably on the plane. By following these tips, you can make your family travel experience more enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.




Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Our Blog

Budget-Friendly Family Adventures: October Half-Term and Christmas 2023 Travel Ideas
Budget-Friendly Family Adventures: October Half-Term and Christmas 2023 Travel Ideas

September 20, 2023

Planning a family trip during the October half-term and Christmas 2023? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on an extended adventure filled with budget-friendly family travel, epic travel hacks, and the eternal question, "Are we there yet?" 

Continue Reading

The Elf-tastic Delight of Pre-Filled Christmas Stockings
The Elf-tastic Delight of Pre-Filled Christmas Stockings

September 07, 2023

Ah, the holiday season is creeping up on us once again, and you know what that means - it's time for merriment, festive decorations, and of course, the age-old tradition of hanging up those trusty Christmas stockings. But here's a little secret that's not so secret anymore: Pre-filled Christmas stockings are the unsung heroes of the holiday season.

Continue Reading

Keep Kids Entertained on Road Trips with Travel Entertainment Lap Trays: A Closer Look at KeepEmQuiet's Travel Activity Tray
Keep Kids Entertained on Road Trips with Travel Entertainment Lap Trays: A Closer Look at KeepEmQuiet's Travel Activity Tray

July 19, 2023

Picture this: you're embarking on a road trip or plane journey with your little rascals. The excitement is contagious, but so is the dread of keeping them entertained. Fear not! Enter travel entertainment lap trays, the magical solution to keeping kids occupied and preventing any potential meltdowns during those long voyages.

Continue Reading