How to Sleep on a Plane

Sleeping through the night or even taking a power nap on a plane can be dicey. But with the proper preparations, a satisfactory snooze is possible for almost everyone.

Difficulty:

Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Carry-on Bags
• Slippers
• Travel Clothes
• Travel Kits
• Travel Pillows
• Blankets
• Inflatable Pillows
• Bottled Water
• Eye Masks
• Airline Tickets
• Earplugs

1. Reserve your seat in advance. Window seats give you a wall to lean on, and your neighbor won't need to disturb you on the way to the lavatory.

2. Buy and pack in your carry-on bag the following: travel pillow and eye mask, earplugs, comfortable clothing, slippers and bottled water.

3. Make sure that your body will be tired for the flight: Before your departure, avoid sleeping in, napping or consuming caffeine, and try to get some exercise.

4. Snag a pillow and blanket as soon as you get on the plane. Remember, your seat is reserved, but blankets are not.

5. Scan the cabin for better seats once the flight is under way. A row of empty seats with movable armrests is the best situation for sleeping on a plane'aside from first class.

6. Adjust your seat for maximum comfort. If you can't put it back far enough, try putting a pillow or blanket behind your lower back to make you more reclined.

7. Ask what time the in-flight meal will be served. Falling asleep is easier on a full stomach.

8. Tell your neighbor that you plan to sleep. The purpose is twofold: He'll leave you alone, and he can discourage the flight attendants from disturbing you while you sleep.

Tips & Warnings

• Most travel stores carry a variety of pillows designed for sleeping in an upright position. Budget travelers find the inflatable U-shaped vinyl pillows satisfactory and compact; a small buckwheat-filled pillow is a higher-end option.

• Consult your physician before taking any variety of sleeping pill.