Unless you have cash to burn on flying first class in cosy, on-board sleeping cubbies, you’ll find that getting your 40 winks on a plane is no mean feat. Stiff seats, the inevitable screaming baby and a whole host of other unpleasantries can make your journey a living nightmare. Thankfully, this handy infographic offers some potential solutions. Here are a few of them:
Before the Flight
Surprisingly, you can make your journey easier before you even take off. Dressing in warm, comfortable clothing is a no-brainer, but these other tricks are pretty clever, and are sure to help you on your way to a great kip.
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Bedtime Routine
Trick your brain into thinking you’re going to bed just like normal. Do your usual teeth-brushing, book-reading; whatever it is that makes you feel comfortable in the evening. (Unless your routine involves singing along to a reel of show tunes – be mindful of other passengers).
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Make Yourself Tired
One of the tricks to a great sleep is being sleepy in the first place. Make sure you reduce the amount of rest you get the night before your flight, as this will result in you being completely exhausted by the time you sit on the plane. No matter how uncomfortable you may be, sleep is sure to come.
What to Bring on Board
Get as comfy as you can by bringing a travel pillow and blanket. You won’t regret using up that extra luggage space. Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs are a must if you need a soundless sleep, and books are often handy if you want something to help you relax and doze off.
Errors in the Air
If you’re familiar with the feeling of having to give up and just stay awake for the duration of your flight, take note of these classic mistakes that you might be guilty of…
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Nuisance Neck-Pillows
Not to be used as they’re advertised! Turning the pillow so that it rests around your chin is a much more effective way of using it. When your head naturally lolls as you sleep, it’ll be supported.
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Seductive Snacks
The snack trolley trundling past tempts anyone and everyone, but the best way to get some sleep is to try and avoid it. Sugar-filled sweets and caffeine-rich coffees, although delicious, are never going to get you anywhere when it comes to well-needed rest.
The Perfect Sleeping Position
Let’s face it, this isn’t going to be the most comfortable night’s sleep you ever get, but it’s worth a try! You can rest on your seat tray, prop yourself against the window, or place your legs over the side of the arm rest. If you’re brave enough, you could always inch your seat backwards slightly, but you’ll be inviting annoyed tuts and disapproving eye-rolls from the person behind.
However you choose to snooze, remind yourself that there’s a comfy bed waiting for you at the other end. Flights won’t last forever!
