How to Sleep on a Flight

Between rushing to pack, getting to the airport and staying alert once you land, the flight itself is sometimes the best place to catch up on sleep when you travel. Not able to do it? Try this next time you fly.

Things You'll Need

• Air travel reservations
• Thick, soft jacket
• Portable music device or earplugs

Instructions

How to Sleep on an Airplane

1. Choose a window seat when making a flight reservation. This gives you control of the sunshade and a place to lean and rest other than the passenger next to you. If your airline asks you to claim a seat as you board, be sure to check-in and arrive early.

2. You can take an over-the-counter motion sickness pill just before boarding if traveling makes you a little queasy. Avoid the “non-drowsy” formulas, of course, and you could be sleepy by the time you are settled in.

3. Turn your window seat into a sleeping berth as soon as possible. Close the window shade, adjust your overhead air vent, and bunch your jacket against the window into a makeshift pillow before chatty company arrives. This will make it clear that you don't want to be disturbed.

4. If at all possible, skip the refreshment and snack offers, or you will be keeping one eye open looking for your drink instead of sleeping. Or, if you are only after a quick nap, place your order and use it as a wake-up call when it arrives.

5. If you are still not able to sleep after take-off, you now have some new options. You can recline your seat (if you are not shy about the personal space of people behind you) or use your “approved portable electronic device” to play your favorite lullaby music as soon as you are told it is safe. Some planes include continuous radio channels in their armrests, but you may have to purchase a headset to use them. Especially on crowded flights, use earplugs to reduce the noise.

6. 

   Still not quite there? You can raise the window shade and watch the scenery outside until you feel drowsy. Instead of sheep, count the clouds outside and remember that while you are in the air there is nothing to do but clear your mind and relax!

Tips & Warnings

• Stow carry-on luggage in the opposite overhead compartment so that you can reach is easier when you awaken.

• You can also try other props, such a blindfold or inflatable neckrest. These are not recommended for the self-conscious.

• If you do end up purchasing headphones on your flight, save them for future trips—especially if you are likely to choose that airline again.

• Using pharmaceutical sleeping aids or alcohol can impair you beyond the duration of the flight.

• Be careful not to oversleep! Whether you have a connection to make at another gate or not, some flights continue on to other destinations. Stretch and keep moving as soon as the plane lands.