There’s no way to sugarcoat it… Jet lag is THE WORST!
It leaves you feeling crummy and tired, and nobody wants to explore when they’re running on fumes!
When it comes to jet lag in Iceland, it can be especially rough if you aren’t careful.
Most flights land super early, and if you’re flying to Iceland from the U.S. (west to east), you’re essentially ‘losing’ time, leaving your body scrambling to catch up.
(A 5-6 hour time difference is quite a big jump.) You land at 6 a.m., but your brain thinks it’s 1 a.m. – right when you’d normally be sinking into your first REM cycle.
It’s no wonder your body is begging for a bed!
As you make your way through Keflavík airport, you spot a coffee shop.
“Biggest cup you’ve got, please,” you mumble, fully aware it won’t make much difference in how you feel.
Then you step outside and get hit with Iceland’s signature welcome: the freshest air on Earth!
THIS is what Iceland really feels like. But your first thought is, “I just want to dive into a warm bed.”
I get it. I’ve been there.
But what if you could beat jet lag without spending your first day in bed… or looking like a sleep-deprived zombie in all your photographs?
You can. I’ve got a few easy tricks up my sleeve that are so easy to implement, and they’ll make a huge difference in how you feel on your trip.
Overcoming jet lag is possible; it just takes a little bit of preparation.
Are you ready to feel your best from the moment you land in Iceland?
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- Best Tips to Beat Jet Lag When You Visit Iceland
- Free Arrival Guide
Best Tips to Beat Jet Lag When You Visit Iceland
Beating jet lag isn’t about luck, it’s about being intentional and having a game plan.
Think of it like training for your trip; small changes before, during, and after your flight can save you from days of grogginess.
Here are my favorite ways to avoid jet lag.👇
What to Do Before Your Flight to Minimize Jet Lag
Preparation starts before you even set foot on an airplane.
Pay Attention to Your Sleep + Meals
Start adjusting your bedtime 3-5 days before your trip to ease your body into the new time zone. This way, when you land at KEF Airport, your body isn’t completely out of sync.
Jet lag light therapy can also help. Exposure to light affects your body’s internal clock, and shifting it to match Iceland time can help beat jet lag.
I’ve noticed that eating certain foods tend to make jet lag symptoms worse.
So, before take off, avoid alcohol, coffee, greasy food, and heavy meals.
Opt for a meal high in protein and veggies, it’ll keep your blood sugar stable and give you the most nutrition throughout your long day of travel.
Another culprit is sugar. It weakens your immune system and spikes your insulin, both bad news for flying and jumping time zones.
Bottom line: skip the sugar before takeoff and during your flight to Iceland.
Pack Smart for the Plane
Honestly, I don’t know how some people do it.
They show up at the airport like it’s Fashion Week, strutting through security in heels, skinny jeans, and a full face of makeup, ready for their long-haul flight.
That could never be me, though.
Comfort is king in my books!
I dress in layers and love roomy clothing when I travel – big sweaters or a scarf that doubles as a blanket or pillow.
A few things I never board a plane without are an eye mask, earplugs, and a neck pillow.
I also pack lavender oil, especially if I want to signal my brain that it’s time to sleep.
I recently discovered this foot hammock. You can adjust it to different lengths, and they’re even suitable for little kids. It’s a lot easier to sleep when you’re comfortable.
Pro tip: I always bring an emergency snack pack in case I’m hungry or can’t find healthy food options. This includes protein bars, beef jerky, nut butter, and even fresh veggies. This reusable food storage bag works really well.
For more helpful tips like these on how to pack for your trip, I created the Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide.
Inside, you’ll find a printable checklist for every season, a layering cheat sheet, my go-to travel essentials (and where to get them), and more goodies to make packing for Iceland easy.
Download the FREE PDF below!👇
Best Jet Lag Remedies During Your Flight to Reykjavík
You can’t control screaming babies or mystery airplane meals, but you can do a few things to keep jet lag from hitting you like a bus.
Surviving a long flight is an art, and these are a few in-flight tips and tricks I use to help beat jet lag.
Stay Hydrated
Flying dehydrates the body, so it’s essential to drink more water than usual.
Better yet, add a hydration packet to your reusable water bottle.
Limit Alcohol and Caffeine to Beat Jet Lag
Both dehydrate and affect your sleep, so save the celebratory drinks for when you arrive!
But do yourself a favor and make sure to get a coffee when you’re in Iceland. The coffee here is amazing, and don’t even get me started on the baked goods!
Here’s a list of some of my favorite coffee shops in Reykjavík.👇
➡️ READ: Coffee Shops in Reykjavík You Can’t Miss: 11 Must-Visit Spots for Coffee Lovers
Move Your Body
Sitting in a cramped seat for a long-haul flight can do a number on your joints.
Stand up and walk the aisle, stretch your arms and legs, roll your ankles, or even just flex your feet under the seat – anything to keep circulation flowing.
It’ll help prevent swelling, stiffness, and even more serious issues like blood clots (yep, that’s a thing).
Get Some Sleep
I know, easier said than done, but get as much sleep as you can on the plane.
I don’t recommend strong sleeping pills as a sleep aid for jet lag, especially if you’ve never used them before. They can mess with your sleep cycle even more and make you drowsy at your destination.
You know all the things you packed earlier? It’s time to whip them out now: neck pillow, earplugs, eye mask, and the lavender oil.
And don’t forget to limit screen time before and during your flight.
How to Overcome Jet Lag Once You Land in Iceland
Congratulations, you’ve made it to KEF Airport in Iceland! 🙌
The first 24 hours after you land are crucial. A few smart choices can help you feel like yourself again way faster.
Get Outside
I’m not kidding when I say Iceland has the best air!
Stepping out in the fresh Icelandic air is probably the BEST jet lag cure ever, and I’m convinced there’s nothing it can’t fix.
Headache? Go outside
Recent breakup? Go outside
Jet lagged? Get your 👏 booty 👏 outside! 👏
Natural light is key to resetting your circadian rhythm.
If you land in the morning, soak up as much sunlight as possible. If you arrive in the evening, avoid bright light so your body can wind down.
And yes, you’ll still get the benefits of fresh air, even in the darker months (November–February).
And if you’re only in Iceland for a short time, like a layover, and wondering how to make the most of it, here’s how to enjoy that fresh air! 👇
➡️ READ: Iceland Stopover Itinerary: 5 Fun Things To Do During Your Layover
Take a Hike
If you really want to take things up a notch, pair that fresh Icelandic air with a hike.
Every time we return home to Iceland after visiting overseas, I’m reminded how quickly a hike helps reset my body clock. Jet lag doesn’t stand a chance against crisp air and moving your body.
Want to know what the best hikes in Iceland are? Look no further!👇
➡️ READ: What Are the Best Hikes in Iceland? 13 Trails You Need to Explore!
Visit a Hot Spring
Another favorite jet lag cure of mine is visiting a hot spring.
Can you imagine how good your body feels after soaking in a hot spring after a long flight?
Bliss!
While I wouldn’t recommend the Blue Lagoon right now because of the volcanic activity, there are lots of fantastic Blue Lagoon alternatives.
The Sky Lagoon is only 20 minutes from Reykjavík and 45 minutes from KEF airport, so it’s an excellent option.
Take a look at what you can expect when you go.👇
Stay Awake (No Napping Allowed)
The #1 rule of things NOT TO DO if you want to beat jet lag, is to nap when you arrive.
I know it sounds counterintuitive, especially when a quick nap is so tempting, but it’ll only confuse your body even more.
Instead, stay active, start exploring, and aim to get to bed early that first night. It’ll make a world of difference.
Coffee helps, just don’t overdo it late in the day unless you want to be wide awake at 10 p.m.!
Fuel Your Body
What you eat and drink will affect how quickly you bounce back. Just like you did while prepping for your trip, focus on nutritious meals the first few days.
… And then treat yourself to Icelandic ice cream and hot dogs! 😉
Jet Lag Remedies
Even if you do all the things, your body might still need a little extra boost.
Not all jet lag treatments are created equal, so here are a few I like:
Vitamins: Travel stress and lack of sleep can compromise your immune system. Try taking immune-boosting vitamins like Vitamin D, Zinc, and Fish Oil. Another great supplement is Echinacea if you are traveling during cold and flu season. I also like to take this complex when we land, which is naturally energizing.
Homeopathic jet lag pills: If you want to beat jet lag, THIS is your secret weapon. No Jet Lag. is a homeopathic remedy that helps relieve jet lag symptoms. Take one every couple of hours before and during your flight. Seriously, this stuff is amazing, and it’s so cheap!
FREE Arrival Guide
Beating jet lag isn’t magic; it’s about planning ahead, making smart choices, and giving your body what it needs when you land.
With these tips, you can hit the ground running…
Or gently walking, if your legs are still stiff from the flight! 😉
To make your arrival as smooth as possible, I’ve put together a 👉 FREE Iceland Arrival Guide
It takes you step-by-step through everything. From passport control and baggage claim to transportation options and a perfect first day in Reykjavík.
Plus, it’s packed with VIP discounts and insider tips.
Grab your FREE Iceland Arrival Guide because there’s no time for sleeping off jet lag, there’s too much exploring to do, my friend!
Happy Planning!
