If I had to plan my ideal voyage, it would certainly include an overnight flight. This is mostly due to the fact that flying after 10 p.m. allows me to keep my natural schedule, making it a more manageable experience overall. Last week I took a 10-hour overnight flight from Sao Paulo to Chicago, which left Brazil at 11 p.m. The trip was great and I arrived home more refreshed than I typically do. To give you an idea of its advantages, below are my top three benefits for traveling overnight.
1. The Late Hotel Check-Out: One of the perks of having a late-night flight is that you can enjoy a relaxing morning and afternoon in your departure city. Since hotel check-out times are usually 11a.m. or noon, make sure to reserve a late check out the first day you arrive. I did not do this on my last trip and had to share a room with a colleague. A car-racing event was coming to town that weekend and the hotel was sold out, so always plan in advance. Hotels typically grant a two- or three-hour extension for free. However, if you are staying well into the early evening, they may charge you half a day’s rate. This is usually well worth the expense, as it allows you to shower right before leaving for the airport and lets you address any last minute packing at your leisure.
