7 Tips for Better Sleep on an Airplane

Sleeping on airplanes sucks, making us feel sore, grumpy tired, and seriously messing up our intricate sleep cycles in the process. We all have established our own special means of acquiring comfort on a plane—I personally like the “lay head on hard folding tray” approach…although I wake up with a stiff neck and back. Fortunately, there are tricks to make catching some Zzz’s on a flight easier, and it doesn’t require alcohol or sleeping meds.

Dress Comfortably
Uggh…there’s always that one girl glammed out for her flight in stilettos and seemingly painted on leather slacks, or that business dude in his fresh pressed suit and slicked back hair…but is this necessary? First thing’s first—ditch trying to be a fashion diva and opt for comfy clothes. Think sweat pants, yoga pants and soft cotton shirts. Always keep a light jacket handy and if you are on a red eye—why not don some flannel jammies?

Plan Your Seating
This is more important than you may think. Sit in the back near the restrooms and you are subject to slamming doors, gross smells, and people waiting in line by your seat. Also, try to avoid sitting near the wings of the plane—the engines can get mighty loud in that section. Your best bet? Aim for seating up front. Not only is it away from the engines, but makes exiting easier and sometimes, there is more legroom.

Window Seats are Prime
Hunt down that window seat, because it’s going to be your best bet when it comes to rest. You have control of whether or not that little window remains open or closed, and once you sleep on a plane near a window, you fully appreciate just how handy a simple wall can be. Prop up a pillow or sweater against it and find that neck support you need to sleep somewhat soundly. No window seat no glory!

Pillows: Choose Wisely
If you travel by plane quite frequently, you may want to invest in a proper travel pillow, but know how to pick the perfect one for you. Do you like to sleep on your tummy, back, or side? Do some research to find a pillow that can help you recreate your style of sleep in a tiny space. Don’t think there’s a pillow out there for you? You’d be surprised—there are tons of different options!

Eye Masks
While you’re searching out the perfect travel pillow, go ahead and look for a quality eye mask as well. According to the National Sleep Foundation, light plays a huge role in regulating your internal clock, so if it’s dark outside, that means bedtime. The trick is not to rely on a cheap mask, or ones provided on a plane, because usually they aren’t sturdy or dark enough. Look for contoured blackout eye masks that give your eyes space while completely blocking out light.

Cancel Out Noise
I’m sorry, but when it comes to sleep, ear buds just aren’t going to do it. A screaming baby can breach any noise barrier, so you need to get heavy duty with your ear apparatus. Invest in quality headphones that completely block out noise from the outside. Now that you’re engulfed in silence, try listening to some soothing music to help lull yourself to sleep.

BYOB
As in “bring your own blankie”. Carry on is tight these days, but if you are on an overnight flight or a lengthy one, then a blanket is crucial. A lot of airlines don’t hand out free blankets anymore, and if they do they charge a fee and the blankets are usually used and not washed between flights. Also, blankets aren’t just there to keep you warm. Get creative and roll it up to use as a pillow or for extra neck support.

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