Waking up before 3 am isn’t exactly easy, but the earlier you leave on your flight, the earlier you arrive and start your vacation. You can sometimes get some great flight deals with these early flights too. If you are flying from an area with flight delays, it can be a good idea to leave early, before delays overtake the day’s schedule. You may also want to take an early flight because you’ll have even more time at your destination. Here are 6 early-morning flight tips for your next family flight.
Know what time the airport opens
In the past, I arrived 2 hours before my flight departed only to find that I was the only person at the airport – arriving even before the TSA agents. Call ahead to find out what time the ticket counter and TSA open – you may be able to get a little more sleep! Keep in mind that sometimes security and the ticket counters open even before restaurants and coffee shops.
Set several alarms so you wake up on time
When I have to get up early, I don’t always get restful sleep. I’m worried about oversleeping. Setting several alarms is a good way to feel more confident that you will wake up on time. You can also have other family members set an alarm as an extra security measure.
Prep the night before your flight and trip
You already have to wake up early. Make sure you can get as much sleep as possible. I usually wake up early and then just quickly get ready, throw last-minute items in my bag, and then head out the door. . I also make sure that all of my bags are packed as much as possible. I leave a list of last-minute items by my toothbrush so that I am sure to pack them right before I leave. These things usually include things we need overnight and in the morning, like retainers, glasses, and iPhone chargers.
Be ready for a nap on your flight
After settling on the flight, I usually want to go back to sleep. So, I wear no/minimal makeup and skip putting on my contact lenses until I’m at my destination. If it’s a long flight, I pack a blanket and a pillow for each of us so we can get some sleep before we arrive.
Pack everything in advance
You want to be almost 100% ready to go in the morning, so be sure to pack everything except the few last-minute items that you need in the morning. I also recommend you make a list of the bags you are bringing and stack them by the door so you are ready to walk out of the house. That way, you won’t forget an essential suitcase, garment bag, briefcase, or other carry-on bags (it’s happened!).
Have your transportation to the airport set in advance
If you are leaving at a very early hour, you’ll want to make sure you have your airport transportation set up in advance. Rideshare services may be tough to get at such an early hour, and you don’t want to risk missing your flight. Often these can be booked in advance.