How to Manage Jet Lag on a Short Island Escape

A short island escape can be undermined by jet lag that eats the first days, especially on long-haul routes. With only a week to enjoy, recovering quickly becomes the single most important planning factor.
The proven strategies are simple but effective: shift your schedule before departure, hydrate on the flight, and get daylight on arrival to reset the body clock faster.
- Shift sleep times gradually in the days before flying
- Stay hydrated and limit alcohol on the flight
- Get morning daylight on arrival to reset quickly
- Resist long naps that derail the first night
Plan the first day light and prioritize sleep hygiene over sightseeing. A short trip rewards the traveler who treats jet lag seriously from the moment they board the plane.
A short trip rewards the traveler who treats jet lag seriously from the moment they board the plane, since the first fully recovered day is often worth the entire effort.