If you're like most business professionals today, your career may require a bit of traveling. Although you enjoy your job, travel is tough and especially so when crossing different time zones. Jet lag and sleep deprivation can ruin first-time business meetings and fun activities.
Here are six tips to help you stay on top of your sleep while traveling outside your comfort zone.
Research Hotels
Read reviews or ask other colleagues about hotels in the area where you'll be staying. Check for complaints as well as the positives about the locations. In fact, look for reviews about bedding, lighting, and noise in or around the hotel.
Also, call the hotel ahead of time to find out about amenities and items that might need to be specially requested by you. Ask about restaurants, attractions, rental cars, and anything else you need to know.
Remember, most upscale hotels are located in the heart of most cities to attract patrons. So, it is quite common to be located near the hustle and bustle of a town.
Plan ahead
It takes about one day to bounce back from each time zone you cross. Depending upon where you're going, you might need a week to reset your internal clock. So, planning ahead is key to not feeling sleep deprived.
Your leisure activities and business meetings should be planned to allow enough time to rest after traveling. Depending on your destination, you might need to travel days ahead to allow enough time to rest before business meetings.
Jet lag is known to create fatigue, insomnia, and digestive problems even in the most seasoned travelers - it is to be expected.
Pack Smart
To keep things familiar when traveling, take your own helpful gear. Pack sheets and a favorite pillow.
If you prefer to take your own lightweight and breathable sheets for better rest, by all means, do it. Most people feel more at ease when sleeping on their own sheets while staying at a hotel.
Also take an eye mask, sleepwear, and ear plugs for bright lights and noisy situations when trying to sleep. The main principle is to get good sleep and be as comfortable as possible while traveling.
Stay hydrated
It is possible to be so busy you forget to eat and drink. Staying hydrated is a must when traveling. Dehydration quickly causes fatigue among travelers. Stay sipping on water while traveling, even when not thirsty.
It is a good idea to limit alcohol beverages close to bedtime to avoid staying up pacing during the night and making trips to the bathroom.
Do not rely on sleep medication
If taking sleep medication is not part of your normal routine, do not rely on them while traveling. Be sure to check with your physician about taking any medications while traveling.
Also, you want to come up with a good schedule to take your medicine to avoid forgetting. Consider ending the day with a relaxing and soothing cup of chamomile tea. Chamomile tea is known to help regulate sleep, lower stress levels, and help with immunity.
Melatonin is also another great and natural way to get a good nights rest due to out-of-sync sleep patterns.
Just remember, a sleeping aid or supplement that works one way for a friend or family member, might not have the same effect on you.
Get Sun/Exercise
Get sun and fresh air while traveling. In fact, the sun will help to regulate your sleep!
Have lunch outside or take a brief walk if the weather allows. Try getting in as much exercise as possible before going to bed.
Also, if traveling by plane, get up and walk around on long flights. With a bit of planning and preparation, you will be well-rested and ready for your business meeting.
To find out more about getting your proper rest while traveling and purchasing the best microfiber bed sheet sets, visit us. We're happy to help!