How To Survive A Red Eye Flight: United Airlines Offers Tips

Is there a more apt metaphor for the problems facing the modern airline commuter than the red eye flight?

Earlier this month, United Airlines released a list of tips for how to survive overnight flights, which can leave a traveler drained and with disrupted sleep patterns. Their list inspired a flood of internet comments, some lauding the red eye flight as one of the smartest ways to travel, others swearing off the experience forever and others offering their own tongue-in-cheek travel tips.

• “Get a few drinks at the airport bar, pass out rapidly, drink Red Bull upon arrival. Problem solved.”
• “As a budget-minded traveler, red eye flights are the go to option heading to east coast.”
• “Use miles, book first-class early, when you land check into your room if possible, shower go sightseeing, head back to your room about 3, take an hour nap and do more sightseeing or partying.”
• “Our red eye was delayed and now we are forced to take a connecting flight which will set us back six hours from our original arrival, a flight that was payed for and booked over two months ago. No need to apologize and the damage had been done.”
• “I actually took a United red eye last week. The plane was nice and warm. Very cozy and for the first time ever, I slept the entire flight. Being warm made all the difference.”
• “I prefer red eyes. Tonight I'm on one from Chicago to Puerto Rico, but this flight is seasonal and disappears after this weekend. Hate the flight that leaves at 7 and doesn't arrive until 2… uses up the best part of the day.”
• “The trick is to book a nonstop flight home to avoid sitting at some airport after a long flight waiting for the connection flight.”

United’s list – which can be seen in full here – includes the following suggestions:

PREP BEFORE BOARDING

“Since getting a decent night's sleep on the plane can make a huge difference in how you feel once you land, try selecting a window seat if at all possible. That way, you'll be able to get some uninterrupted rest without the person next to you climbing over you on their way to the restroom.

“When packing, don't forget to keep a plush neck pillow handy to help make you as comfortable as possible. If you plan on staying at a hotel when you land, consider calling ahead and splurging on a relaxing in-room massage.”

RELAX IN THE AIR

“Relaxation is the name of the game, so be sure to dress in loose, comfortable clothing when you're on the plane… Although cabin lights are usually dimmed during red-eye flights, wear a soft eye mask to block out any distractions.

“For many travelers, the simple act of brushing their teeth helps them fall asleep faster. So before takeoff, visit the lavatory with your toothbrush and a bottle of water. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes.

“If your red-eye flight is not fully booked, check with your flight attendant about relocating to an available seat with no one directly behind it. That way, you'll be able to fully recline without disturbing anyone else.”

EXERCISE ON ARRIVAL

“Stiffness can lead to soreness, so once you've gotten off of the plane, take a short walk — preferably outdoors — to help your tight muscles unwind naturally. A dose of fresh air will quickly bring oxygen to your body's cells, thus increasing your energy and alertness after a long red-eye flight.

“Have a fresh set of clean clothes ready to change into as soon as possible. Shedding your wrinkled flight attire doesn't just feel good; it provides a psychological pick-me-up as well.

“Though it might seem like caffeine would help, avoid the temptation of consuming sugary energy drinks immediately upon landing. You're much more likely to overstress your body and crash hard. Likewise, abstain from alcohol for several hours; adding additional toxins to your system won't do you any favors.”

Photo: Vinicius Depizzol via Flickr CreativeCommons

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