Tips for Long-Haul Flights to New Zealand and Beyond
A trip to New Zealand – or any far-flung destination – is a dream for many travellers. But the long journey can take its toll: more than 20 hours in the air and a huge time difference often mean one thing – jet lag.
The good news? With a little preparation, you can reduce jet lag significantly and arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore.
🌏 What Causes Jet Lag?
Jet lag occurs when your body’s internal clock falls out of sync with the local day–night rhythm. Common symptoms include tiredness, trouble sleeping, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
Flights to New Zealand, Australia, or the USA are especially challenging, as they cross multiple time zones – but smart habits can make a big difference.
✈️ Before Your Flight – Preparation Is Everything
- Adjust your schedule early: A few days before departure, gradually shift your sleep and meal times toward your destination’s time zone.
- Start well-rested: Avoid flying when you’re already exhausted – it makes jet lag worse.
- Choose your flight time wisely: Arriving in the afternoon or early evening helps your body adjust more easily.
🕐 During the Flight – Stay Active & Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water: Skip alcohol and coffee, which dehydrate you and disturb sleep.
- Move regularly: Stretch, walk around the cabin, or do light exercises to keep circulation going.
- Use light smartly: A sleep mask and earplugs help you rest; reading lights or sunlight through the window help you stay awake when needed.
- Set your watch to destination time: This helps your brain begin adjusting mid-flight.
☀️ After Arrival – Adapt Quickly
- Get outside: Exposure to natural daylight helps reset your internal clock.
- Stay awake until evening: Fight the urge to nap right after arrival – go for a walk instead.
- Eat light and fresh: Fruit, vegetables, and easy-to-digest meals support faster recovery.
🌿 The Bottom Line
Flying long-haul to New Zealand almost always means facing jet lag – but with the right preparation and simple tricks, you can ease the transition and make the most of your first days abroad.
👉 Plan your flight to New Zealand the easy way – Global Wings Travel helps you find the best routes, airlines, and stopover options, plus expert tips to beat jet lag.