Many frequent travelers swear by overnight flights, claiming they wake up at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. However, others do their best to avoid red-eyes altogether, perhaps due to difficulty sleeping on planes or negative experiences in the past. After all, enduring hours in a dazed, sleepless state is hardly enjoyable.
If you’re hesitant about red-eye flights or simply want to enhance your experience, here are some valuable tips and tricks from seasoned flyers, airline personnel, and travel experts.
Debunking the Myths: Are Red-Eye Flights Bad for You?
One common misconception is that red-eye flights are detrimental to your health. This belief stems from the idea that overnight flights can disrupt your sleep schedule and exacerbate the negative effects of air travel.
It’s true that our circadian rhythm can be thrown off when we change time zones, leading to sleep disturbances, appetite changes, and even digestive issues, which can contribute to jet lag and discomfort. If you struggle to sleep on red-eye flights, they can indeed be problematic. However, if you manage to catch some shut-eye during the flight, they can actually be beneficial, allowing for more restful sleep while traveling.
Traveling East vs. West: Which Direction is Best for Red-Eye Flights?
Another myth surrounding red-eye flights is that they are primarily designed for eastward travel. While flying from Los Angeles to New York means you’ll wake up in the morning ready to land, it’s not essential to travel east on a red-eye.
That said, eastward flights generally align better with our circadian rhythms, making them a good choice for your first red-eye experience if you’re apprehensive about overnight travel.
Tips for a Great Red-Eye Flight
Before the Flight
- Book Wisely: Choose a flight that departs closest to your usual bedtime to help maintain your sleep routine.
- Select Your Seat: Pay extra to choose a seat that suits your needs. Many red-eye enthusiasts prefer window seats and avoid aisles near bathrooms and emergency exits to minimize noise and light disruptions.
- Pack Comfort Items: Bring along cozy travel gear, such as a supportive neck pillow and compression socks. Essential items include an eye mask and earplugs (or noise-canceling headphones) for optimal comfort.
During the Flight
- Skip the Booze and Caffeine: To enhance your chances of a good night’s sleep, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy foods. Opt for water and light, healthy snacks to keep your stomach settled during the flight.
- Sleep Early: Aim to fall asleep as soon as possible. Avoid screens to limit blue light exposure, and consider listening to a podcast or relaxing music to help you unwind.
- Stick to Your Routine: Engage in familiar activities like brushing your teeth or washing your face in the airplane bathroom. Using the same lotions or products you use at home can create comforting scents that aid relaxation.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of your red-eye flight experience!