Survive Your Next Red-Eye Flight With This Travel Checklist

Traveling by plane can be a stressful experience for some people. There are so many things to think about and prepare for, from what to pack to snacks and in-flight entertainment. And it gets even more stressful when you think about that dreaded red-eye flight and how little sleep you’ll get on the plane. 

We've all been there and we've all tried to cope with that situation by taking naps and the like, but none of these tactics have ever worked out well enough. Instead, we have some tips for creating comfort while avoiding any chance of a morning slump. Here’s our travel checklist for your next red-light flight.

There’s a reason why most airlines charge extra for window seats. Airplanes don’t have the comfiest chairs, but if you’re by a window, you at least have something to lean against. You also don’t have to be inconvenienced whenever the person next to you needs to get up and go to the restroom. Sounds like a win-win, especially on a red-eye flight. 

With all this tossing and turning, you'll probably end up with a throbbing head by the time you land. It’s best to carry on a pillow of some sort to have something soft to rest your head on during the red-eye flight. Travel pillows are lightweight and portable and can reduce discomfort associated with sleeping in an upright position.

Not many people know that you can bring your own food onboard. As long as it’s a solid food item like crackers, a sandwich, sliced fruits, or nuts, they’ll let it through. It’s bad enough that you’re enduring a red-eye flight – sleeping on an empty will only have you waking up hangry and woozy. 

Likewise, you’ll want to keep yourself hydrated while you are thousands of miles up in the air. Skip the plastic water bottles since they won’t get past security anyway and bring your own empty tumbler instead. Fill it up before boarding your red-eye flight and store it in your carry-on bag for convenience.

For red-eye flights, you might want to invest in a solid pair of noise-canceling headphones. They’re conducive to blocking out the noise from other passengers, as well as the plane’s engine. Play some white noise or a sleeping playlist to help you get in the right headspace for a good night’s rest. Add in a sleeping mask to block off distractions. 

Just like you would at home, you’ll want to sleep in comfortable clothes on your red-eye flight. Others might bat an eye at you for wearing your pajamas out in public, so an alternative could be sweatpants and a nice sweater. Don’t forget to pack some socks in case it gets too cold onboard. 

If part of your regular nightly routine consists of cleansing your face and putting on a face sheet mask, we suggest bringing them on board, as well. You’ll want to feel refreshed even after a red-eye flight and this is one way of doing that. Internally you are exhausted but a face mist and eye cream should do the trick. 

Seeing that we’ll be living with COVID for an indefinite time, a breathable mask is a must on your red-eye flight. Some countries still require the use of face masks indoors and airlines are simply complying with this regulation. Just in case, you’ll want to be prepared and have extras to switch your mask out every few hours. 

It should be a no-brainer to pack essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, toiletries, and rubbing alcohol. Make sure they’re travel-sized and put them in a water-resistant wash bag to keep them safe from spilling over your other items. Disinfectant spray and wipes are also handy to have on hand during your red-eye flight. 

Some people can sleep through anything, but most of us need some help getting to dreamland. If that sounds like you, it wouldn’t hurt to bring sleeping pills to help you doze off quicker on the red-eye flight. Melatonin is a popular choice and may aid with adjusting your circadian clock and reducing jet lag. 

Red-eye flights can be especially frustrating for a few reasons: one, because you didn't get enough sleep, and two, because you’re feeling extra groggy the next day. With this travel checklist, you’ll fall asleep more quickly and be ready for landing.