How to Recover After a Long Flight

I’m finally back in LA after a week-long trip to New York City. Traveling is always fun but recovering from the trips are a different story. My flight for this trip was 5-1/2 hours one way, which to me is super long and tiring! Plus, getting used to the three hour time difference is also a challenge. To be honest, I sometimes feel like I don’t want to leave my house for days after getting settled in, but that’s impossible because there are always events and meetings. I have to be ready to get back to real life after every trip. If you have a hard time recuperating after vacations or work trips, I have some tips for how to recover after a long flight.

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Never leave with a messy house

I know how hard it can be to keep your house clean when you’re getting ready for a trip. The packing process, opening packages you just received, and moving luggage around will always result in a mess. However, I learned that the worst feeling is coming home to a messy house. I used to think that I could just clean up once I get back, but after a few cycles, I know I won’t have energy or time to tidy up my apartment. What I would end up doing is leaving the mess around longer. This stressed me out so bad and made it harder to get settled in. Now, I always try to keep my space clean before I leave that way I can return calm and ready to recover.

Practice self-care in flight

You might have seen on stories some of my favorite skincare products I take on flights. This is so important to me because it helps my complexion look hydrated and radiant after long hours of no humidity. Face mists, sheet masks, makeup remover wipes, and a rich moisturizer are my inflight must haves. I also always remember to drink a lot of water so I don’t have to deal with dehydration and swelling. If your flight is long, I also recommend packing healthy snacks like granola bars or nuts (something protein heavy) so that you’re not worn out by the time you land.

Keep the energy going

I’ve learned through traveling that once I sit down and rest, it’s really hard to find the energy to get going again. My best tip to combat this is to not stop especially if you know you have things to do that can’t be put off. Most of the time, that’s work related things. As for shifting to time zones, do your best to fall asleep and wake up at the local time and not what your body has adjusted to. I know how hard it can be to fight naps and stay awake, but it’s the best antidote for rest and work.

Exercise even if you don’t feel like it

I don’t really know anyone who truly enjoys exercising as it is. I enjoy the benefits but def not the process. However, I always try really hard to get to the gym no matter where I am to get the blood flow going, heighten my awareness, and regulate my sleep. I know that this works and there’s no other way out! The day after I got back from NYC, I went running!

Make time to recover

Making time to rest after traveling sounds impossible, but it’s much needed to ensure a productive recovery. You don’t need to put off weeks, but try to arrive at least 24 hours in advance of full work days and activities so that you have time to get energized and freshen up. I really enjoy simple activities like lighting a candle, long, warm baths, a cup of hot tea, slow music, and books!

What are some of your recovery tips after long flights?