Why early flights are worth it
The first flights of the morning have a lot going for them. The aircraft is usually already at the airport overnight, so they are less exposed to delays building up through the day. You arrive at your destination with most of the day ahead of you, which on a short break can feel like gaining an extra day. The price for these benefits is an alarm that goes off in the dark.
Do everything the night before
Pack completely in the evening and leave the bag by the door. Lay out the clothes you will travel in, with passport or ID, wallet, keys and phone in one place. Check in online, which with AeroVista opens 72 hours before departure, and save your boarding pass to your phone. Charge every device.
Book your transport to the airport in advance. Public transport may not run early enough, so check timetables and, if needed, arrange a taxi or a parking space. Some travellers find a hotel at or near the airport makes a very early flight much easier.
Get some sleep, even if it is short
Go to bed earlier than usual, even if you do not fall asleep right away. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol and screens late in the evening. Set two alarms, one on your phone and one on a separate device, and put at least one across the room so you have to get up to switch it off.
Accept that you may not sleep perfectly. A short night followed by a nap on the plane or in the afternoon is often enough to carry you through the first day.
At the airport and on arrival
Security can be busy at dawn, as many flights leave in the same early wave. Allow for that, and remember that bag drop closes 40 minutes before departure and boarding closes 20 minutes before. Carry a refillable water bottle and a simple breakfast in case cafes are not yet open.
On arrival, you may not be able to check into your hotel until the afternoon. Ask whether you can leave bags at reception, then spend the morning outside in daylight. Fresh air and a gentle walk do more to wake you up than a third coffee.
Good to know
- Pack, check in and charge devices the evening before.
- Check that public transport runs early enough, or book a taxi.
- Ask your hotel to store luggage if you arrive before check-in time.