Some people can board an airplane, take their seat and go right to sleep. It is easy for them to take a nap, get a few hours of rest and feel refreshed once they land. Other folks struggle to get comfortable in their seat and find it impossible to take a nap. And, you have my type of traveler; we are somewhere in-between. I can sleep on an airplane but wake up mid-flight wanting a little more time. Like most things it’s really personal but we can all use a little advice. Here are a few tips that should help you relax and find that elusive shut-eye on your next flight.
A great pair for relaxing and getting into your relaxation zone!
Ear plugs and eyeshades – great for blocking out the light and loud sounds allowing you to escape from the noisy airplane. Earplugs work double-duty – a good pair is also an excellent idea for hotels which can be noisy too.
Keep the noise out and the peace in.
Noise canceling headphones and soft music help you relax. And a few moments of meditation or a wonderful chance to drift off into a deep sleep is worth packing them in your carry-on.
My favorite travel outfit. Very comfortable. The removable sweater is perfect for chilly flights and boarding areas, yet easy to remove if warm.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing – an outfit that does not restrict you from moving around. You should feel comfortable – like at home! A comfortable outfit “feels right” and allows you to relax. I like to remove my shoes and putting on a pair of comfy slipper socks helps me relax. Make sure your slippers are thick enough to protect your feet from the dirt and grim of the aisles and lavatories on the plane.
Exit row seats may cost a little extra. They are well worth it on long flights.
A window seat works for a long nap. You can rest your head against the side of the aircraft, wrap yourself in a blanket and snuggle-up for a nap. Almost feels like you shut yourself off from the other seats and the aisle. And, exit row seats offer additional leg space – a true added bonus when needing to rest.
Cabeau Pillows. Great for travel via car, train, bus or plane.
Cocoon travel products. Their travel blanket is perfect for packing, stowing and snuggling under.
Bring along eyeshades, a pillow and blanket. There are many travel pillows on the market. The one that works really well for me is by Cabeau at Cabeau.com. It is filled with memory foam and folds nicely into a travel bag you can stuff in your carry on. There are several light weight “easy travel” blankets too. Cocoon at cocoon.com makes one of my favorite travel blankets and they have other products for freshening up after a nap.
Keep seat belts fastened loosely around you all flight.
Keep your seat belt fasten over your blanket. Once you are asleep, you will not want the flight attendants to wake you if the seat belt sign comes on. Flight crews are required to ensure all seat belts are fastened by checking each passenger by walking up and down the aisle, looking at each passenger to see a buckled seat belt. If they are not sure, they will wake you and ask if you are buckled
Full meals are generally offered on international flights. Pick up a bite to eat before boarding domestic flights. Or you can purchase a snack onboard.
Eat a snack – Eating helps some folks feel like they need a nap. If this doesn’t work for you at home it probably will not be the solution for you on the airplane.
A glass of wine or cocktail is enjoyable without making you drowsy.
Don’t take a sleep sedative or drink too much alcohol. Either could make you too drowsy. Your safety comes first and in case of an emergency you will want to be aware and ready to respond quickly.
Happy naps!
What are your tips for sleeping on an airplane?
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