Ten simple, practical tips
Are you going on holiday on the other side of the world? Or do you fly very early or late? Then it is nice if you can take a nap on board, so that you arrive at your destination somewhat refreshed. Ten tips for a good night’s sleep on the plane.
1. Sit by the window
A window seat is the best place if you want to spend most of your flight sleeping. You don’t have to get up for anyone and you can snuggle against the wall.
2. Lenses off
If you wear contact lenses, don’t forget to take them off before closing your eyes. If you quickly suffer from watery, irritated or dry eyes, it is better to wear glasses on an airplane. The dry air often does not feel pleasant, especially if you also wear contact lenses.
3. Bring a pillow (case)
With a cushion, you are just a little more comfortable. You can lean against the window, or lie forward on the table.
Sometimes you get a pillow, but you can of course also bring your own. An inflatable takes up little space in your hand luggage. Another space-saving option is to put a pillowcase in your bag. Fill it up with a blanket or a sweater and your pillow is ready!
4. Strap on, in plain sight
Are you finally in dreamland, the flight attendant shakes you awake because turbulence is expected. If there is a blanket over your belt, she will have to ask if you have closed it. You can prevent this very simply: close the belt over your blanket.
5. Wear layers
Before takeoff it is sometimes sweltering hot, once in the air the icicles are almost hanging from your nose. Especially if you are cold, you usually stay wide awake. Therefore, wear a comfortable outfit made of a soft fabric. Tight jeans or a tight outfit is really not pleasant if you have to sit for hours. And opt for several layers, then you can take something off or put it back on again.
6. Warm socks
Have you ever slept well with your shoes on? Oh no. Rather, swap your shoes for a pair of warm socks as soon as you settle into your seat. There are even special compression socks for the plane, which would ensure that you do not get swollen feet and legs.
7. Sleep Mask
The neighbor who wants to look out the window and slides open the hatch. The neighbor who switches on a light to read a book. Quite irritating, because both daylight and artificial light keep you awake. Wear a nice soft sleeping mask and you will not suffer from anything. A sleep mask is also an effective remedy against flight attendants who want to know whether you still want something to eat or drink, people with such a mask really skip them.
8. Earplugs
Are you always woken up by sounds? Then make sure you have good earplugs. Some people like to listen to soothing music. For this, headphones that block out the hum of the motors are ideal – look for headphones with so-called ‘noise cancelling’.
9. No coffee and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol disrupt your sleep. Take a large bottle of water with you (buy or fill up after the checks!) so you have enough to drink and stay well hydrated in the dry airplane air.
10. Snack before bed
Of course you don’t want to wake up to your rumbling stomach. Eat a light snack before going to sleep. Some foods will take you to dreamland. The substances triptophan and serotonin make you feel calmer and sleepier. They are, for example, in bananas, dates, nut butters, yogurt and whole grain crackers.
