'Not had jet lag since': Frequent flier reckons she has 'figured out' dreaded travel condition
A frequent flier reckons she has figured out how to combat the dreaded travel condition of jet lag.
American woman Wendy Kopp, 58, the CEO and co-founder of non-profit Teach for All, claims she has eliminated the holiday headache.
"I've figured out jet lag," the seasoned business traveller told CNBC.
DEAL: Get 30 per cent off a stay at Discovery Parks in huge sale
A business boss reckons she has figured out how to combat the dreaded travel condition of jet lag. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"I used to have such severe jet lag," she added.
"The trick is: You don't eat on the plane, and when you land, you go on a run before you eat anything.
"For many, many years, I didn't do it, and I finally just resorted to it, and I've not had jet lag since."
However, 9Travel recently spoke to an expert who had mixed views on both eating and exercise.
Self-proclaimed Jet Lag Guy, Dr Steve Jasper is a former pharmacist who has become an expert in the condition.
READ MORE: The Port Stephens beachside suburb that's perfect for a family getaway
American woman Wendy Kopp, 58, the CEO and co-founder of non-profit Teach for All claims she has eliminated the holiday headache. LinkedIn
The Melbourne-based guru offered tips.But he said while many people think exercising helps, that is not necessarily what is making the difference.
It is likely more about getting outside in the daylight.
"Exercise in the park, and that's the sunlight in the park doing more than the exercise itself," he told 9Travel.
As for eating, he did say you should consider the times of your body clock.
"You might be ill because you're eating a meal and your stomach thinks it's three in the morning," he said.
READ MORE: 'The inbuilt phone feature that gives me peace of mind while travelling solo'
Being kept up all night with jet lag isn't ideal. iStock
Steve's other tips include knowing if you're a morning person or a night owl, as well as assessing which direction you're flying. He said he also watches out for naps.
"A little nap might be okay, but I think the best thing is if you land and it's daytime, stay awake," Dr Steve says.
He noted children can also be especially badly affected by jet lag.
And flying business class might combat travel fatigue because it's usually easier to sleep, but it does little for jet lag.
Meanwhile there are no people better to ask about jet lag than flight attendants. And they gave a nap the thumbs up.
"I think it's really important to have just a quick little nap, just to keep you going," Qantas Customer Service Supervisor Alison Rodda told 9Travel.
Flight attendants know a thing or two about jet lag as well. Getty
"Sometimes you might want to sleep all day, but setting that alarm, getting out, exploring, and revitalising yourself so you can adjust to the time zone is key," she shared.
"You need to push through just a little bit."
Another expert warned to stay off your phone when you get off the plane especially if it's night.
The light can make you feel worse - even if you are desperate to check your socials.
"Avoid screens and bright lights, which can trick your brain into thinking it's still daytime. Head straight to your accommodation and try to sleep as close to the local bedtime as possible," Martin Seeley, CEO and sleep expert at MattressNextDay, said.
READ MORE: The cheapest and safest places to travel with kids in 2025
Most viewed in Travel
Qantas plane carrying NFL stars to Australia loaded with 2,000 meals
Australians warned as massive tropical storm approaches tourist hotspot
‘Startling sight’: Iconic tourist attraction looks a little different right now
Emirates’ new premium economy seat feature tackles the most awkward part of plane travel
