Flying at any hour can be a stressful and exhausting experience, but taking the red eye flight is usually a more difficult experience. While nothing can make the situation easy, some tips may be able to ease the burden of your next red eye flight.
Schedule a Direct Flight
While this isn’t always possible, you should look for the option anytime you need a red eye flight. Accepting connecting flights means layovers and switching planes. This is too much activity, especially at a time when you would rather just sleep through one long, straight flight.
Think About Seat Location
The best thing you can do for yourself is to pick a window seat for your red eye flight. This is because you’ll find it easier to get comfortable by leaning up against the side with a pillow. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to get to sleep. Curl up in the corner and you’ll be fast asleep in no time.
Prepare for the Long Flight
This means dressing comfortably, so it will be easier to relax. This is no time to worry about making good impressions, especially since everyone else will be trying to sleep as well. Also, consider bringing along your own blanket and pillow to make sure you’re prepared for a good sleep. Some people even bring along eye masks and ear plugs to keep the atmosphere of the cabin from interfering with their rest.
Close the Window Shade
Many red eye travelers forget to do this and they regret it at sunrise. There aren’t many things worse than sleeping soundly, only to have the sun force you awake bright and early. Don’t worry. The crew won’t let you oversleep and miss your departure. In the meantime, spare yourself the blinding yellow light early on the morning.
Don’t Go to Sleep Too Soon
If you think you might want refreshments, wait to settle in until the cabin crew comes around with cart service. If it seems as though you’re sleeping, they’ll assume you don’t want anything and pass you by. Some flight attendants recommend putting your try down, if you do want something. If you happen to doze off, this may indicate to them that you were waiting for a drink or snack.
These are just a few tips for getting the most out of your red eye flight. Even though it’s a late time to be traveling, there will still be some activity on board. For that reason, remember to bring things that will help you relax.