"Conquer Jet Lag with This Challenging Three-Day Sleep Rule!"
Published on November 21, 2025 at 03:22 PM
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Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Symptoms of Jet Lag
- Preventing Jet Lag
- The Three-Day Rule
- Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule
The idea of a long-haul vacation, far from the chilly UK, can be alluring for some—except for the jet lag that often accompanies it.
However, experts have shared a three-day 'hack' designed to help you recover from jet lag more quickly during your holiday, ensuring that you don't waste any of your precious vacation time.
When you sleep can significantly influence your ability to avoid jet lag while on holidayCredit: Getty
Most destinations are quite a distance away, with the exception of a few islands off the African coast.
This distance often brings about a challenging time difference to adapt to.
Your internal body clock—known as the circadian rhythm—can become disoriented when you rapidly switch time zones.
This disorientation can lead to not only extreme fatigue but also headaches and stomach discomfort.
Both your sleeping patterns and eating habits can be greatly impacted by jet lag.
According to experts at Go2Africa , there are several strategies to mitigate the more severe symptoms of jet lag.
One effective method is to select the right flight time before embarking on a long journey.
They recommend booking a flight that arrives between 2 PM and 5 PM, as this allows for exposure to natural light, which can help counteract the effects of jet lag.
Additionally, landing during these hours gives you ample opportunity to adjust before you go to sleep at the local time.
Alternatively, there is the three-day rule, which you should begin to follow even before boarding your flight.
This rule is particularly beneficial for travelers heading east, as they often need to go to bed earlier rather than later.
To acclimate to this change, it's advisable to modify your sleep schedule three days prior to your trip.
This adjustment should ideally be about one hour per day, making it easier for you to sleep at a more appropriate time while on holiday.
The same principle applies when traveling west, but you'll want to shift your sleep schedule an hour later.
Of course, adjusting your sleep pattern can be challenging, especially trying to fall asleep earlier than usual.
However, even a shift of just 30 minutes per day can still yield significant benefits.
Even the airplane you choose could impact your comfort level.
If you're dreaming of a destination with temperatures around 27°C in December,
Adjusting your sleep schedule by 30 to 60 minutes daily can create a significant impactCredit: Alamy
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reduce jet lag during my travels?
To minimize jet lag, consider adjusting your sleep schedule by one hour per day for three days before your trip. Also, book flights that arrive between 2 PM and 5 PM to take advantage of natural light.
What are the symptoms of jet lag?
Common symptoms of jet lag include extreme fatigue, headaches, stomach discomfort, and disruptions to sleep and eating patterns.
What is the three-day rule for jet lag?
The three-day rule suggests adjusting your sleep schedule by one hour per day for three days before your flight. This is especially helpful for travelers heading east.



