Sleep Soundly On Your Next Flight With These 9 Little-Known Life Hacks

Nov 09, 2018 by apost team

Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could fall asleep on an airplane and wake up refreshed once you reach your destination? A restful night's sleep on a flight was once a luxury reserved only for first class passengers. Now, thanks to these tips from frequent flyers, you too can sleep peacefully on a plane.

Did you know that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the best days to fly? The middle of the week is the least favorite time to fly so you won't get crammed into an overbooked airliner. Fewer people on board means less distractions. You'll also have more space to yourself. Obviously, this Tuesday and Wednesday rule don't apply during the holiday season.

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Years ago boarding a plane was a formal affair. Nowadays, nobody cares what you wear to the airport. Wear something comfortable and nonrestrictive so you can curl up for a nap at 30,000 feet. A cozy sweatshirt and warm socks will help you sleep in a chilly plane cabin.

This tip has nothing to do with snagging a seat with a view. If you choose the window seat, you'll be able to rest your head against the wall for added comfort. If you pick an aisle seat, don't be surprised if your neighbor wakes you up every half hour when they're going to the restroom.

Why sleep sitting up when you can recline your seat? Just be sure to ask permission from the person sitting behind you. You don't want to spend an entire cross-country flight getting kicked in the back by an irate traveler.

You might be wondering how a fastened seat belt can help you sleep. It can't, but it will stop the flight attendants from waking you up every time the plane experiences a little turbulence. Buckle your seat belt over your blanket. The flight attendants will know you are safe and secure, and you'll enjoy a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.

Instead of forcing yourself to nap on the plane, book a flight at the time you would normally be asleep. Wake up a few hours earlier that morning, and you'll be ready for bed by the time you board the plane. Overnight flights are often less crowded than morning flights so it will be easier for you to fall asleep.

We're not talking about the sunglasses that match your new bathing suit. A travel pillow that supports your neck, earplugs and a sleep mask are all necessities if you're planning on catching some shut-eye on a plane.

This might go against everything you've ever been told about airports and flying, but you should avoid drinking alcohol before or during your flight. Alcohol may help you fall asleep, but it won't help you stay asleep. The last thing you want is to wake up hungover midway across the county.

Recent studies from Harvard Medical School show a link between the blue light from electronics and insomnia. The blue light from your tablet or smartphone disrupts your circadian rhythm, making sleep difficult. A paperback novel or book of crossword puzzles will keep you entertained without affecting your sleep cycle.

Are you going to try out some of these tips on your next plane ride? Let us know if you have other tips in the comments section below.