We all want to sleep on long flights but the cramped seats usually stop us. Spending hours in a small space leaves most passengers feeling completely drained. The good news is that you can fix this common travel problem easily. Doctors who study sleep and frequent travelers discovered nine great secrets for resting in the sky. These proven steps will help you sleep well and feel completely awake later.
Book a Window Seat Whenever Possible
Window seats are your best friend if you want to sleep on a plane. You get a nice solid wall to lean your head against so you can rest. Plus you get total control over the window shade to block out the bright light. Best of all nobody will bump you.
Bring Comfort Accessories for Your Seat
You really need to pack a good memory foam neck pillow so you do not wake up resting on the shoulder of a total stranger. Some people even bring a portable footrest that hangs from the tray table to keep their feet elevated and stop them from sliding down the seat.
Start Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule Early
Your body clock gets super confused when you cross different time zones so it helps to start shifting your bedtime a few days before you leave. Going to bed just twenty or thirty minutes earlier or later depending on where you are flying makes the transition way easier on your brain.
Limit Your Screen Time Before Bed
Looking at the bright blue light from your phone or tablet tricks your brain into thinking it is still daytime outside. You should try putting your devices away a while before you plan to sleep or at least use a blue light filter if you really have to read something.
Skip the In-Flight Drinking
Drinking coffee or grabbing a little bottle of drink might sound fun but both of those will totally wreck your chances of getting real rest. They keeps your brain wired while drinks just makes you wake up a bunch of times feeling super dehydrated during the trip.
Invest in a Good Light-Blocking Eye Mask
Planes are filled with bright reading lights and open windows so a soft eye mask is the fastest way to trick your body into sleep mode. Wearing one also sends a very clear message to the flight attendants that you do not want to be bothered for drinks or snacks.
Stick to Your Normal Bedtime Routine
Doing the exact same things you do at home like brushing your teeth and washing your face helps signal to your body that it is bedtime. You can even change into some cozy airport clothes and put on some warm socks to lower your body temperature and get really comfortable.
Skip the Airplane Meal Altogether
Waiting around for the food cart to come by and then waiting for them to clear your tray takes away hours of precious sleep time. It is a much better idea to just eat a big meal at the airport before you board so you can go straight to sleep right after takeoff.
Consider Taking a Mild Sleep Aid
Flying means dealing with tight spaces and loud noises that keep you awake for hours. When you feel stuck just take a fast acting sleep supplement. It mimics the natural signals your body needs to rest. Suddenly the cramped airplane cabin fades away into a nice dream.
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