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How to Sleep on a Plane

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(8 Ratings)

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.

From Quick Guide: Basics of Airline Fares
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 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. Step 2

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

  3. Step 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. Step 4

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

  5. Step 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. Step 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. Step 7

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

  8. Step 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.

Comments  

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hug4whit said

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on 10/18/2008 I am actually doing a project about napping while traveling in general. I am a senior in Industrial Design and would appreciate anyone who will take my quick 10-15 minute survey! This will help me better understand what you guys want and need! Thanks!

http://www.questionpro.com/akira/TakeSurvey?id=1056151

rhyme said

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on 7/8/2007 If you are on antihisthamines for allergies, switch to the old-fashioned ones that make you drowsy for the trip.

rhyme said

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on 7/8/2007 If you have short legs, bring something to put under your feet. It's much easier to sleep if your legs are supported.

shwee said

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on 2/20/2007 Make sure you take off your shoes if you're going to sleep on a long flight! Once I didn't do this on a 20 hour flight to china and i almost got athletes foot, my feet were itching like crazy and I'm not even going to mention the smell...

shwee said

Flag This Comment

on 2/20/2007 Make sure you take off your shoes if you're going to sleep on a long flight! Once I didn't do this on a 20 hour flight to china and i almost got athletes foot, my feet were itching like crazy and I'm not even going to mention the smell...

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eHow Article: How to Sleep on a Plane

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