If you’re a frequent traveler, chances are you’ve seen them — those mythical travelers who seem to fall asleep the moment their heads hit the back of their seat.
It almost seems like magic how they seem to be in command on when they sleep while the rest of us twist and turn for the duration of our flight.
We may not be able to explain why some people find it so easy to fall asleep, but we can give you some tips that will help you sleep on a plane.
Who knows? With enough practice, you might even become one of those airplane unicorns.
Go for the Window Seat
Window seats may be more cramped than aisle seats, but the wall and window can be leaned-on, and that’s a much more comfortable position than trying to sleep while sitting straight.
Window seats also tend to afford more privacy. Sure, there might be a stranger sitting next to you, but that’s only one stranger, as opposed to the two you’ll be getting if you sit in the middle seat, or the crowd you get when sitting on the aisle seat.
Keep Your Face Covered
Eye masks, oversized hoodies, a small blanket, etc. Any item that can keep light away from your eyes and create a barrier between you and the rest of the plane will go a long way when it comes to achieving sleep.
It might not be as dark as your room, but it will be a lot better than the brightly lit interior of the plane.
Extra points if the object you’re using is one of your favorites. The extra comfort our favorite items give us is always a big help.
Get as Much Feet Space as Possible
This can be remarkably hard considering planes seem to be shrinking, but unless you’re exceptionally tall, keeping your carry on on the overhead compartment can earn you at least a couple of inches.
Leaning your seat back slightly can also help you be more comfortable, and by doing both things, you’ll find it easier to get in a position you can sleep on.
Wear Headphones
Wearing headphones is a great way of adding an extra layer of privacy to your flight.
You may not be able to leave your seat, but soothing music or ambient noises can make a world of difference.
Believe it or not, strange noises can play a more significant part in sleeping problems than loud noises, so if you like listening to rock’n’roll to relax, then go right ahead.
What matters is that you give your brain something familiar to listen to, as opposed to unfamiliar plane noises.
Ask Not to Be Disturbed
There’s nothing more frustrating than finally achieving sleep only to be woken up by the flight attendant offering you peanuts, so if you plan to sleep –or at least attempt to– for a portion of the flight, then make sure to ask the attendant, and your row mates, to avoid waking you up.