Your ultimate guide to navigating red-eye flights and making the most of them.

Many dread red-eye flights, but seasoned travelers know there are more benefits than drawbacks if you approach them wisely. Understanding key factors can help you make a well-informed choice. This guide will clarify what constitutes a red-eye flight, help you assess if they suit your travel plans, and provide tips for enhancing your experience on these often-overlooked journeys.

What exactly is a red-eye flight?

If you seek a precise definition of when a flight qualifies as a red-eye, you might be disappointed. A red-eye flight is generally understood as any trip leaving at night and landing in the morning.

So what does this mean for you? Essentially, it indicates you’ll be traveling overnight.

If you tend to sleep during these hours, consider how well you typically rest on planes before opting for a red-eye flight; if you struggle to get quality sleep in transit, you might arrive feeling fatigued with those red eyes that lend this flight its infamous name.

What are the advantages of taking a red-eye flight?

Though they often carry a negative image, the advantages of a red-eye flight can be numerous. Typically, they are more affordable than daytime flights and allow you to arrive at your destination with the dawn of a new day, along with several benefits related to airports and airplanes.

With fewer travelers flying at these hours, airports tend to be less congested, resulting in significantly shorter check-in and security lines. Navigating to your gate is also simpler without the usual crowds in the terminals.

Moreover, the planes are generally less crowded, which increases your chances of finding an empty adjacent seat or even a completely vacant row. This not only enhances comfort but also aids in getting better rest. The reduced number of passengers translates to less background noise and disturbances, making it easier to sleep. You might also experience less congestion on your route to the airport.

What are the drawbacks of a red-eye flight?

The downsides of red-eye flights are limited, yet significant for those affected. Primarily, travelers who struggle to sleep on planes may find the experience challenging, leading to grogginess upon arrival.

This can also exacerbate jet lag symptoms. Additionally, if your accommodation has an afternoon check-in, arriving early in the morning with luggage might not be ideal.

While you can usually leave your bags at the hotel and explore the area before check-in, you might not have the chance to shower and refresh after your overnight journey.

✈️ Insider tip: If you decide red-eye flights aren't for you, simply uncheck “Show red-eyes” in the Flight Quality menu on the left side of the results page while searching for flights on Dinogo, ensuring you won’t accidentally book one.

How to get ready for a red-eye flight

Regardless of the flight time, there are several guidelines for flying that can enhance your overall travel experience. However, when preparing for a red-eye flight, some factors related to sleep become even more crucial.

Opt for a window seat to minimize disturbances from fellow passengers needing to access the aisle; wear loose, comfortable attire that won’t disrupt your sleep; and steer clear of caffeine and excessive alcohol both before and during your flight. Most importantly, try to avoid connecting flights to prevent being awakened for a plane change in the middle of your rest.

5 strategies for managing a red-eye flight

Having explored the advantages and disadvantages of red-eye flights and what they entail, here are 5 tips for successfully navigating a red-eye flight.

1. Don’t stress about the flight

Though it might be challenging, worrying about the flight only heightens stress and anxiety, which can hinder your comfort and ability to sleep onboard. Try not to dwell on the fact that you're on a red-eye flight.

Remember, there’s nothing inherently negative about a red-eye flight. Treat it like any other evening to avoid adding unnecessary stress to your mind and body.

2. Consider wearing compression socks

Compression socks can help minimize the risk of blood clots during long overnight flights by promoting healthy blood circulation. Even those without serious health issues can benefit from them. I personally wear compression socks on any extended flight to prevent swelling (which can take days to subside) and to keep my legs more comfortable when stuck in a seated position all night, as they would typically be elevated when I’m in bed.

3. Avoid bringing electronic entertainment

What’s the primary focus on red-eye flights? Sleep. That’s the aim, so don’t pack a bunch of screens that could keep you awake longer due to excessive blue light exposure. They also contribute to dry eyes by reducing blinking, and the cabin air is already dry enough. You want to avoid arriving with red eyes, not ensure it.

Additionally, remember that everyone else on the plane wants to rest, too, so try not to illuminate your row with bright devices. If you find it difficult to sleep, don’t panic. Instead, consider some of these quieter, more relaxing activities to enjoy on a plane to pass the time comfortably.

4. Shield your eyes and ears

Light and noise will be your main challenges when trying to sleep on an overnight flight, so come equipped with an eye mask and ear protection. If you can rest comfortably with larger headphones, choose a pair with noise-canceling features. Alternatively, play some soothing classical music through smaller headphones or earbuds to drown out background noise. If silence is more your style, don’t forget to bring earplugs.

✈️ Insider Tip: A silk eye mask is the best choice for comfort; it won’t tug at your skin or hair and helps reduce negative effects on your complexion.

5. Prepare for the long journey

Red-eye flights cater to longer distances, so be ready to spend an extended time in a limited space. Dinogo’s advice for long flights is an excellent starting point for ensuring a more comfortable red-eye experience, but keep in mind that your main objective on this journey is to sleep, so prioritize what will offer you the most personal comfort.

✈️ Insider Tip: While some believe travel pillows waste carry-on space, I always bring two: one for my neck and another for my elbow or seat, depending on what I need at the moment. Tailor all tips to suit your own body and preferences.

How was this guide developed?

I find myself on airplanes at least twice a week, totaling around 120 flights each year. Given that I frequently travel cross-country or internationally, many of these flights are red-eyes, making me quite accustomed to the long overnight journeys that people either adore or despise (I personally enjoy them). I’ve blended years of this experience with Dinogo’s expert insights and tools to craft this guide.