After my trip to Italy, I got a ton of questions from you guys about how to cure jet lag. After last year’s Greece ordeal, I took the jet lag situation very seriously and was willing to do about anything to prevent it. Miraculously, I didn’t get jet lag at all during my trip to Italy, so I figured I’d share a few things I did to keep jet lag at bay.

Allow yourself time to acclimate

When I went to Italy, Puglia was our first stop and I’m so glad because it allowed us time to chill and acclimate before going to the bigger cities. I think having a chill day our first day allowed me to relax and not feel stressed out. It also gave me the opportunity to catch up on any sleep I might have missed. I got a good night’s sleep the first day we got in which I think made all the difference.

Don’t think about the time difference

Sometimes, jet lag can be all mental! This trip, I wouldn’t allow myself to think of the time difference because it just gives you unnecessary anxiety. Instead, don’t do the math in your head and pretend you’re still in the same time zone.

Drink plenty of water

Drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight to help counteract dehydration caused by dry cabin air. Dehydration can make jet lag symptoms worse, and it can cause you to feel more tired. I’d also avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol which can both affect your sleep cycle.

Move your body

We walked everywhere in Italy, and I mean everywhere! Not only was it a great way to explore a new city, but it tired out our bodies, making it easier to fall asleep at night. When your body is exhausted, you just sleep better which is great for curbing jet lag.

Come prepared

There’s nothing worse than tossing and turning and not being able to sleep during your vacation! So, make sure you pack some melatonin, Benadryl, or whatever it is that helps you sleep just in case. I packed a ton of Benadryl for my trip to Italy – yes, I came prepared – but I luckily didn’t need to use it. However, I knew it was there just in case of emergency!