Whether you're a frequent traveler or not, you've probably heard the term "red-eye cruise." But what exactly is a red eye flight and what are the advantages and disadvantages of taking it? If you're interested in it, or you're considering booking one and want to know what to expect, we're here to help. Read on for our guide to taking a red-eye cruise, and if you need to book one, we can help her, also.
A red eye flight is a flight that departs late at night and arrives early in the morning, usually after 9pm. And arrive by five or six in the morning. So, when you take Red-Eye, you'll be up all night, when you would normally be asleep. Typically, these flights travel from west to east (i.e. from Los AngelesNew York to Los Angeles toronto , As for Vancouver to Toronto), so passengers arrive at their destination for a full day in an earlier time zone, rather than arriving somewhere in the late afternoon or evening and losing an entire day to air travel.
Although we're not sure when the first red eye appeared in the sky, it wasn't always there. In the early days of air travel, airports were not equipped with overnight crews or equipment to offer red-eye flights. If you're wondering where the term "red-eye" came from, it refers to the red eyes of sleep-deprived travelers. Not everyone can sleep on an airplane, and a side effect of losing sleep is red, tired eyes.
There are pros and cons to consider before taking a red-eye flight, and how you do will depend on several factors, such as how well you prepare and how well you sleep on planes. The biggest drawback is the possibility of late nights, especially if you end up in the middle seat, where comfortable seating is an extra challenge. However, there are some positive aspects to consider on red-eye flights.
Red eye flights are often cheaper than flights at other times. For people who have no problem sleeping during the flight, this can be a good inexpensive option. A red-eye cruise also means you don't pay for the night's accommodation, which can be a money-saving strategy. Red-eye cruises also attract business travelers who want to avoid losing a day's work in transit.
As far as experience goes, red-eye flights are generally less crowded than morning or afternoon flights, so you may have an empty seat and more room to spread out (which makes it easier to sleep). There will also be more upper cupboard space and you are more likely to get the seat you want. Since there are fewer people flying in the red eye, it's not just the planes that will be less crowded. Airports are usually quieter at night, so check-in procedures and security lines are shorter and boarding is generally more efficient. You will also likely get your luggage faster at your destination. So what you lose in convenience, you often make up for with minimal hassle.
Preparing for a red-eye flight versus a day trip is a little different because you have to take into account that you'll be exchanging a bed for an airplane seat. Here are some tips.
Reserve a window seat: This will reduce the chances of your sleep being interrupted by the person next to you trying to pass you to use the bathroom and will give you a place to rest your head.
Pick a later flight: It may seem counterintuitive, but if you can book a flight that leaves after 10pm, you may have a better chance of catching a good thing. If the flight takes off close to your usual bedtime, you will likely feel tired as soon as you settle into your seat.
(SLEEP) DRESS FOR SUCCESS: We're not suggesting you're walking around the airport in your best pair of fuzzy pajamas, but comfort goes a long way toward red-eye sleep success. Your best bet is to wear loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics. Pack an extra pair of socks in case your feet get cold during the flight, which can happen often.
Bring sleeping supplies: Airline blankets aren't always the most comfortable, and sometimes they're only offered at an extra cost, so you might consider bringing a large blanket or scarf or shawl to put under it so you can sleep. The same goes for neck pillows if you feel like you want something soft to rest on.
You're booked, and you're ready to go. What now? There are a few basic things you can do to help make the process as pleasant as possible.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Flight: This may seem like a no-brainer, especially given the no-coffee rule, but some people believe that downing a glass or two of wine on the plane will help induce sleep. It may help you sleep, but it won't be comfortable and you'll wake up dehydrated.