12 hours. This is usually the minimum flight time from Australia to the United States, even more if you're flying from Melbourne or Perth.
It's a long time to struggle to get to sleep and eat bad plane food. In fact, by the time you land, you're inevitably going to feel tired, restless and out of energy – a condition better known as jet lag.
At Route 66, we understand the impact of jet lag and try to ensure you can recover quickly and get onto your trip of a lifetime. For example, we regularly book in the Sheraton Chicago O'Hare Airport Hotel so you can relax and hit the hay as soon as you arrive.
Of course, there are a number of other ways to beat jet lag – here are three strategies to keep in mind.
1) Drink plenty of water
There's a good reason why flight attendants frequently offer water during a flight! It's recommended to drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight to avoid dehydration – one of the mitigating factors of jet lag.
When you land in the United States, avoid alcohol or caffeine in the hours before you plan to go to bed as this can disrupt your sleep and delay your adjustment to the new timezone.
2) Take a hot bath or shower
Before you get in bed, have a hot bath or shower to help you relax and wind down.
Being cooped up in a stuffy and uncomfortable plane cabin can take on toll on your body – both physically and mentally. Combine this with the stresses of travel and you have a recipe for severe jet lag upon arrival.
Before you get in bed, have a hot bath or shower to help you relax and wind down. Soaking your muscles should make you feel more comfortable in your new surroundings and make it easier to sleep.
3) Relax for a few days
As your body clock gets used to the new timezone and environment, it's important to slow yourself down and look after number one. When we arrive in Chicago, you usually have a few days to simply relax and settle in.
Perhaps use the hotel fitness centre or take a walk into town to visit the shops and tourist attractions. Use these days as a warmup to your Route 66 adventure!
If you'd like more information about making your Route 66 trip as stress-free as possible, get in touch with our team today.
