4 Tips for a Cozy Red Eye Long Haul Flight

Let's face it, red eye flights can be a challenge, especially a long-haul ride. A red eye flight is a plane ride that departs from the airport during nighttime, usually between the hours of 21:00 / 9:00PM and 01:00 / 1:00AM, and lands at your destination during morning hours. A long-haul flight is considered to be 6 or more hours in duration.

What are the benefits of red eye flights?

• Smoother experience at departing airport due to fewer crowds and greater chance of not having to deal with traffic going to airport

• You are more likely to have more space on the airplane, and possibly have a row to yourself, due to fewer passengers

• More time when you arrive at your destination

• Less likely to experience flight delays

• Plane tickets are usually lower cost

• Checking in and boarding plane is less chaotic and simpler

Here are four suggestions to help make your red eye long haul flight a more enjoyable experience:

Tip #1: Choose a Window Seat

One way to help you get some rest and sleep on your red eye long haul flight is choosing a window seat prior to departure. Window seats are usually the best seats on an airplane and it's easier to put up a pillow up and get more comfortable with a window seat and it's also a wonderful way to see the sunrise when you get closer to your destination.

Tip #2: Go to Sleep After First Meal Service

Another suggestion to make your red eye long haul flight better is by delaying sleep until after your first meal service. On long haul flights, meal service typically begins 1-2 hours after take-off. Lights are on during this time and can cause more difficulty in getting good rest. Falling asleep before meal service can also cause you to wake up hungry and make you feel uncomfortable. Waiting to sleep until after your meal service, when lights are off and windows are closed, will help you feel more refreshed when you receive your second meal service 1-2 hours before landing and give you more energy when you arrive at your destination.

Tip #3: Wear Cozy Attire & Pack Essentials in Carry-On Luggage

When packing, include items that will help you have a more comfortable experience on your red eye long haul flight. Some things that can help include:

• Neck pillow

• Eye mask

• Ear plugs

• Compression socks

• Slippers* (some airlines provide complimentary slippers on board, check with your airline prior to departure)

• Melatonin* (consult with your medical provider prior to taking)

In addition to packing sleep aids, ensure to dress comfortably on your flight. Wear layers to adjust to airplane temperature and wear loose fitting attire that is made of breathable materials such as cotton and polyester.

Tip #4: Stay Hydrated with Water & Stretch

Another suggestion that will make a huge difference in your red eye long haul flight is drinking water steadily during your flight. Beverages containing caffeine, alcohol and sugar can cause dehydration and give you an overall sense of not feeling good. Water bottles are complimentary and drinking a couple of sips every couple of hours will help you stay hydrated and feel good.

Also, while not asleep on the plane, ensure to get up and stretch a couple of times prior to and during your flight. Stretching will help increase blood flow to prevent discomfort in legs, neck, back and shoulders and promote relaxation to help you sleep and have a cozier flight experience.