Not a Morning Person? Here’s How to Master Early Morning Flights! CheapOair Staff February 23, 2023 Air Travel, general, Travel Tips If you’re looking for a way to score some cheap plane tickets and arrive at your destination with plenty of time left in the day, booking flights in the early morning is often the way to go. Traveling in the wee hours of the morning can be daunting, especially if you don’t know how to wake up early for a flight. For those of us who aren’t exactly chipper before the crack of dawn, it can be a real challenge to get up in time for the first flight of the day. Without a game plan, you might wonder whether getting up before the sun is really worth it. but with these early morning flight tips, you can ensure a stress-free start to your day. As long as you follow these tips, you’ll be able to survive that early morning flight like a true pro. Pack and Organize in Advance If you have to get up at 2 or 3 a.m., you can’t possibly expect to be in the right frame of mind to do any serious packing. In your groggy state, you might easily forget a toiletry bag or laptop that’s sitting out in plain sight. To avoid any last-minute stress or forgotten essentials, pack your bags and organize your travel documents the night before your flight. Make a checklist of items you’ll need, including passport, tickets, toiletries, and any other essentials, ensuring everything is ready to go. This preparation will save you time and help you start your morning on a calm note. Take your shower the day or night before you leave to ensure you’re not rushed the day of your flight. All you’ll have to do upon waking is brush your teeth, splash your face, and zip up all your luggage before heading out the door. Reserve Ground Transportation To ensure you arrive at the airport on time, plan your transportation in advance. Check the route and schedule for public transportation or book a taxi or ride-sharing service in advance. Arriving early will not only alleviate stress but also give you ample time to go through security and navigate the airport without rushing. When you don’t plan on leaving your car at the airport or when you’re getting ready for your return flight, you can’t afford to leave ground transportation details until the last minute. That’s especially true with red-eye or early morning airline flights. If you don’t book these details in advance, you could risk arriving late to the airport. You can easily pre-schedule a taxi or Uber, and many hotels will offer to work out these arrangements for you, too. This can help you avoid stress, allowing you a far more restful flight. Think Twice About Caffeine Some frequent flyers swear by those cups of coffee to get them through early airline flights, especially on international flights. But smart morning travelers actually avoid caffeine so that they can sleep on the plane. It’s important to really know your body and your own tolerance for caffeine so that you can determine whether that first cup of coffee at 4 a.m. is really the best idea. When you get your caffeine fix that morning, time that first cup with your ideal sleep-travel schedule. Finally, don’t forget to hydrate. This will keep your body feeling good even when you’re running on very little sleep. One of the key aspects of mastering early morning flights is ensuring you have had a good night’s sleep. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep to wake up feeling refreshed and energized. Avoid consuming caffeine or engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime to promote quality sleep. Get Comfortable One of the best ways to survive early or long flights is to make sure you’re completely comfortable. That means forgoing restrictive, itchy garments and opting for breathable, roomy ones instead. The days of dressing up for travel are long gone. So, avoid any garments that may dig into your skin or require constant adjustment. It’s always a good idea to wear clothes in layers, so if you get too hot or too cold on the plane you can shed or don layers as needed. And, of course, don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear! You won’t fare well if your tired feet make you cranky even before you even board the plane. If you’re hoping to sleep on the plane, make sure you have some sort of travel pillow on hand. Many people struggle to sleep on airplanes because their head and neck are not secure; they tip over or nod their head as they doze, which prevents restful sleep. Some airlines now have folding headrests to keep your head in place, but a comfy memory foam travel pillow, particularly one that holds your head in place while you sleep, is a really good idea. Also, choose clothing that is comfortable for the duration of your journey. While you may want to look stylish, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort, especially during early morning flights. Opt for loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes that allow for ease of movement, making your travel experience more enjoyable. Don’t Overstimulate Yourself In the digital age, it’s only natural that you’d rely on your tablet, laptop, or phone to keep you occupied while waiting to board or even mid-flight. But be careful not to be too glued to your screen. Not only will it drain your gadgets’ batteries, but that stimulation can also make it harder for you to sleep during your flight. If you do need to use your devices, lower your light settings and switch to “night shift” mode. This can make it easier to doze and even minimize eye strain or headaches — and you’ll definitely be thankful for that once you land. Investing in travel gadgets can significantly enhance your early morning flight experience. Noise-canceling headphones can help block out ambient noise, allowing you to rest or enjoy your entertainment in peace. Neck pillows and eye masks are also handy for getting some shut-eye during the flight. Early morning flights can be a battle against drowsiness. To stay awake and alert during your journey, engage in activities that keep your mind active. Read a book, listen to music, or watch TV. Early flights can be tough to get through, but they can also allow you to spend more time in your chosen destination and travel on the cheap. FAQs Q. Is it better to book an early morning flight or a later one? Booking an early morning flight has its advantages. The airport is typically less crowded, security lines are shorter, and flights are more likely to be on time. However, if you’re not a morning person or have difficulty waking up early, a later flight may be a better option for you. Q. Should I sleep on the plane during an early morning flight? It depends on your preferences and the length of the flight. If you didn’t get enough sleep the night before, a short nap on the plane can help refresh you. However, if the flight is relatively short or you’re planning to sleep upon arrival, it might be better to stay awake and adjust to the local time zone. Q. How can I minimize jet lag after an early morning flight? To minimize jet lag, stay hydrated, avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, and adjust your sleep schedule to the local time as soon as possible. Exposing yourself to natural light and engaging in light physical activity upon arrival can also help regulate your body’s internal clock. Q. Can I check-in online for an early morning flight? Yes, most airlines allow online check-in, which can save you time at the airport. Take advantage of online check-in and print your boarding pass or use a mobile boarding pass to streamline the check-in process. Q. What should I do if I miss my 5 am flight? If you miss your early morning flight, contact your airline’s customer service immediately. They will guide you on the next available options, such as rebooking on a later flight or providing alternative arrangements. Q. How can I manage my time effectively on the morning of my flight? To manage your time effectively on the morning of your flight, prioritize essential tasks such as packing, getting ready, and having breakfast. Leave non-essential activities for later or for when you arrive at your destination. Stick to a schedule and allow some buffer time for unexpected delays. Do you have any tips for surviving an early morning flight? Let us know in the comments below.
