Combat Travel Fatigue

Long trips make you feel really exhausted? Travel fatigue is a frequent occurrence for people who travel long distances. And guess what - it can be worse if you drive yourself. The good news is that travel fatigue is also something you can avoid with the right process and tips.

Manage your sleep time 

Most travelers have a problem managing their sleep time, and this is one of the causes of travel burnout. Prior to travel, avoid interruptions and distractions during your sleep time. During travel, make an attempt to sleep when you would normally sleep on your at-home schedule, and utilize tools like eye masks, earplugs, and noise-canceling headphones to better mimic at-home rest. Lastly, avoid taking daytime naps when you reach your destination as a nap may make it difficult for you to sleep later when it is appropriate. 

Make yourself at home

Some people love hotels. However a great way to prevent too much of a shift in your rhythm is to opt for more of a homey space for the duration of your stay - especially if you’re making multiple stops along the way. Airbnb’s are a great way to have everything you need to make yourself at home.

Little touches like an actual living room, coffee, and high-end features such as touchless faucets can help you unwind more easily after long hours of traveling.  

Get hydrated

Traveling often can cause dehydration, which results from reduced water intake during travel. Avoid this like the plague, if possible. Drinking water while traveling can help you deal with both jet lag and travel fatigue. Bring plenty of water whenever you set out on a trip and try not to adjust your water intake according to fewer bathroom trips, if possible.

Make yourself comfortable 

Whether you are driving or in flight, getting comfortable can help you reduce travel fatigue. Traveling can be draining, especially if it takes hours. Avoiding any form of stress, even little ones that can add up over time to contribute to your fatigue, is essential for not straining your body and mind. Ensure you wear your most comfortable outfit and footwear to minimize discomfort and enhance your mood. Additionally, it should be obvious to make sure your sitting position during the journey is as comfortable as possible. Try elevating your legs when not driving, and make sure to stretch!

Get moving 

Physical exercise is another brilliant way to deal with travel fatigue. Any form of workout that coincides with light exposure helps your body regulate its internal rhythm. Even a quick walk around a rest stop or down the plane aisle can make a big difference in getting your blood and oxygen moving throughout your body.

The bottom line 

Similar to any other type of burnout, managing travel fatigue requires proper activities and considerations. Before and after getting to your destination, make it a priority to get 8 hours of sleep to help your body unwind and adjust to the new destination. Don’t overlook you most basic health habits and be gentle with yourself schedule wise. You’re still living your life, no matter where you may be headed.