A red-eye saves a hotel night and gets you there by morning, but only if you actually rest on the way. Use this checklist to make your overnight flight count.
The day before
- Choose a window seat away from the galley and lavatories.
- Check in online and download your boarding pass so the airport is quick.
- Download any podcasts, playlists or shows you want, since in-flight Wi-Fi can be slow or expensive.
- Charge your phone, headphones and power bank.
- Pack a small sleep pouch for your personal item so you don't have to dig in the overhead bin.
What to pack in your personal item
- Eye mask
- Head support
- Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones
- A warm layer or scarf
- Refillable water bottle (fill it after security)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and face wipes for landing
- Any medications you take regularly
- Charging cable and power bank
At the airport
- Eat a light meal before boarding so you can skip the in-flight service and sleep sooner.
- Skip the late coffee.
- Change into comfortable clothes and shoes you can slip off.
On board
- Set up your sleep kit before takeoff, while you still have elbow room.
- Set your watch to your destination's time zone.
- Fasten your seatbelt over your blanket or layer so crew don't need to wake you.
- Let the flight attendant know if you'd like to skip the meal service.
- Put your mask on and your phone on Do Not Disturb.
After you land
- Freshen up: brush your teeth, wash your face and change your shirt if you can.
- Get outside into daylight early to help your body adjust.
- If you need a nap, keep it short so you can still sleep that night.
Keep your sleep kit in one place
The Travel Comfort 3-in-1 Travel Sleep Support Set puts an eye mask, padded head support and arm wrap in one pouch that fits in your personal item, so half this checklist is packed in one go.