It’s called a red-eye for a reason: the overnight flight is notoriously tough for anyone hoping to make it from Point A to Point B well-rested. I give some tips on relaxing in transit and arriving at your destination polished, pulled together and ready to go.
I often fly overnight to most destination in Asia, and the tips below are my Bible.
1. Pick the right red-eye
If your flight is direct, you can do this, no problem. Avoid an overnight connection at all costs. Book a window seat—its benefits are twofold: you can lean against the glass and you won’t be crawled on by seatmates mid-flight.
2. Have a bedtime routine
Brush your teeth, slip into a thick pair of socks, cocoon yourself into a soft scarf and lower the eye mask. This will trick your body into thinking you’re at home. I add a pair of cushioned noise-cancelling headphones (Beats by Dre), but I don’t bother to plug them in.
3. Don’t stress about sleep
Yes, it’s ideal, but it’s not essential. One all-nighter won’t kill you. The more pressure you put on yourself to fall asleep, the less likely it is that it’s going to happen.
4. Dress the part
I usually leave at midnight, I fly in something soft and cozy and keep what I’m wearing to work the next day packed in my carry-on. When we land, I change clothes and it’s like a mental reset: new outfit, new day.
5. Make the most of the car ride in
I grab a coffee and a giant bottle of water in the terminal before leaving the airport. Once I’m loaded into a cab and heading into the city, I usually have an Energy Bar and some almonds in my bag for breakfast en route so I don’t arrive famished.
6. Take advantage of the hospitality suite
If you have the time, drop off your luggage at your hotel and see if a hospitality suite is available. If the hotel isn’t fully occupied, you may be able to shower and freshen up in an available suite. Alternately, ask about using the spa facilities (or locker room!), depending on what time it is.
