Back
Locum tenens veterans will have developed their own methods for navigating the challenges of air travel.
If you're just starting out, here are seven tips and tricks to make the best of overnight flights:
- A successful night's sleep starts with a little bit of planning. Book the window seat for night flights. Leaning your head against the window is one of the most comfortable ways to sleep on a plane.
- If you can score an exit row seat, the window is just about the most restful seat you can hope for in coach. The extra legroom will make it easy to find comfortable sleeping positions. And—barring an actual emergency—your seat mates won't wake you up when they need to use the facilities.
- Think about what side you sleep on at home. If you sleep on your left side, get the window seat on the left side of the plane. You'll be more comfortable and feel more natural while sleeping.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Don't be shy about changing into pajama bottoms and a comfy pair of thick wool socks before bedtime. If you need to hit the ground in scrubs or dress clothes—pack them. You'll look better and feel better if you fly comfortably and change when you land.
- Baseball caps pull double-duty. If you plan to sleep on the plane, a ball cap will hide your bed-head hairdo when you land. You will also enjoy a surprising amount of privacy and darkness if you pull the cap down to cover your face while you sleep.
- Travel pillows may have a reputation for being dorky looking, but they help. The traditional U-shaped pillow works to keep your neck straight if the opening is to the front. Flip the opening around to the back if you prefer to keep your chin up off your chest.
- If it's available and you can afford it, upgrade to a sleeper. There's nothing better than reclining all the way back into a bed for a good night's sleep.