Pilot's number one 'trick' to help beat jet lag - and it all starts before your flight even takes off

While airlines continue to come up with new and innovative ways to help combat travel fatigue, there are also things you can do as a passenger to reduce the effects of jet lag.

And who better to get some advice from than the people who are constantly in the air.

Agnès Chantre, a captain at Air Tahiti Nui, has shared some of her top tricks with 9Travel, highlighting that it's all about what you do before you even take off.

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"The number one trick to beating jet lag is to get in sync with your destination before you arrive," Agnès tells us.

"Some airline crew start the process days before they fly long haul, and changing your bed time in small increments in the lead up to travel can work wonders to getting your body clock closer to the time zone you're headed to."

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The pilot also suggests eating meals at the times you will be in your destination.

"It's another trick you can implement a few days ahead to help your body adapt more easily," she says.

"I also recommend eating light before and during a flight and drink plenty of water once you're in the air to avoid dehydrating."

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Indeed, dehydration can make jet lag symptoms worse. So drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight to counteract the effects of dry cabin air. Also avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate you and affect your sleep.

What to do after you've landed

Once you've reached your destination, Agnès says to try to get onto local time as quickly as possible.

"Falling asleep in the middle of the day only to be awake all night is the last thing anyone wants on their holiday," she points out.

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