Long haul flights can leave us feeling fatigued and drowsy upon reaching our destination. However, with proper preparation and effective strategies, there are ways to increase the likelihood of getting sufficient sleep while traveling. This blog post offers valuable insights and suggestions on how to improve your in-flight sleep experience, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to make the most of your journey.
Reserve a window seat – Opting for a window seat positions you against the plane’s wall, providing a surface to lean on. This grants you slightly more personal space and reduces the chances of being disturbed by your seatmate, allowing you to drift off more comfortably. In contrast, passengers seated in middle or aisle seats are more susceptible to being bumped or nudged by fellow travelers.
Book direct flights to your destination – Contrary to common belief, people often dread super-long flights lasting 10 hours or more. However, interestingly, you are much more likely to get sufficient sleep on these extended journeys compared to shorter flights lasting less than six hours or ones with layovers.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear – Avoid going barefoot, as it can make others uncomfortable. If you prefer, make sure to bring along some cozy socks for your own comfort.
Make sure your seat belt buckle is visible – If turbulence occurs, flight attendants may approach you if you are not wearing your seatbelt. Make sure to buckle up to avoid any potential interruptions.
Decline the meal – Maximize your rest time by avoiding interruptions like having a meal just two hours into the flight. Focus solely on resting during the journey, and you can enjoy your meal closer to the end of the flight. If you find it necessary to have something in your stomach to aid sleep, consider bringing a snack with you.
Bring travel essentials – When traveling, remember to pack some essential items to create a sleep-friendly environment. Bringing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce cabin noise, while an eye mask will shield you from any distracting light. Don’t forget to include a supportive neck pillow as well, as it can provide much-needed comfort and help reduce neck strain, ultimately leading to improved sleep during your journey.
Stay hydrated – Staying hydrated is vital during a flight, as the dry cabin air can cause discomfort and dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your journey. However, it’s best to limit consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as they can disrupt your sleep patterns and further contribute to dehydration.
Board tired – On the night before your flight, consider reducing your sleep by a couple of hours, but not more. This approach works well when the flight duration allows you to make up for the lost rest. However, for flights that are slightly too short for your usual hours of sleep, like a 5-hour journey from New York to Paris, this tactic can be risky. In such cases, since you won’t have enough time to get your full rest, focus on stealing whatever sleep you can to feel more refreshed during the flight.
Sip a hot beverage – Herbal teas like chamomile or lavender are excellent choices for a relaxing drink during the flight. You can easily bring your own tea bags, provided you can find a flight attendant to get you some hot water. Remember to steer clear of caffeine, as even green tea contains it. Opting for herbal teas ensures a soothing and caffeine-free experience onboard.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can significantly improve your chances of enjoying quality sleep on a plane and arriving at your destination feeling refreshed and energized. Selecting the appropriate seat, wearing comfortable clothing, and packing travel essentials for a sleep-friendly setup are crucial steps. Establishing a sleep routine, practicing relaxation techniques, and staying hydrated throughout the flight will also contribute to a more restful journey. By incorporating these strategies, you’ll be on the path to a rejuvenating and revitalizing sleep experience as you soar through the skies.
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