Jet lag is the mismatch between your internal body clock and the local time at your destination after crossing time zones. The more zones you cross, the longer your clock takes to catch up.

Which direction of travel causes worse jet lag?

Flying east is usually harder than flying west for the same number of time zones, because you have to fall asleep and wake up earlier than your body wants to. Each destination guide marks the direction of travel from major cities.

How can I reduce jet lag?

Shift your sleep schedule toward your destination a few days before flying, stay hydrated, and get daylight at the right time on arrival — morning light after eastward trips, evening light after westward ones.

Jet lag guides

Pick your destination to see how much jet lag to expect — how many time zones you cross from major departure cities, whether you are heading east or west, the distance, and how long recovery usually takes. 150 cities covered.

Frequently asked questions

What causes jet lag?: Jet lag is the mismatch between your internal body clock and the local time at your destination after crossing time zones. The more zones you cross, the longer your clock takes to catch up.
Which direction of travel causes worse jet lag?: Flying east is usually harder than flying west for the same number of time zones, because you have to fall asleep and wake up earlier than your body wants to. Each destination guide marks the direction of travel from major cities.
How can I reduce jet lag?: Shift your sleep schedule toward your destination a few days before flying, stay hydrated, and get daylight at the right time on arrival — morning light after eastward trips, evening light after westward ones.

Jet lag guides

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Oceania

Frequently asked questions