Whether it’s the excitement of your trip, fear of closing your eyes thousands of feet in the air or a time zone issue, most people battle to sleep onboard on a long-haul flight.
The last thing you want to do on your vacation is waste a few days recovering from the flight, so here’s how to master the art of sleeping on a plane.
Get the Basics Right
Remember, not every seat in business class features a lie-flat option. While most long-haul airlines do have this option, double check that you have a reclining seat when you do your flight booking.
It also pays to check the dimensions of your seat, so you’re prepared in advance.
If you usually sleep on the right hand side of the bed at home, book a berth on the right hand side of the plane – it’s the little things that count when it comes to feeling at ease.
Airlines go to great lengths to ensure your comfort when flying business class, take advantage of their hospitality. Use their eye-masks, pyjamas, and other sleep-related items, they’re designed to help you get some shut-eye while you’re onboard.
If you’re flying economy and you’re not sure if amenities will be provided, get your own neck pillow and eye mask. You’ll be so glad you did.
Don’t Overeat
No matter which class you’re flying a full belly can keep you awake at night. Stick to light, healthy meals instead of heavy carbohydrate-rich eats.
Many airlines allow you to choose your mealtimes, so try to find a happy medium with regard to dinnertime at home vs your new destination. These little things help you acclimatize and can avoid jet-lag related hunger at awkward times.
Beat the Jet Lag
Planning ahead is the best way to avoid or minimize jet lag. Rather undergo a little sleep deprivation for a few days before you leave than on arrival. Adjust your bedtime to correspond as closely as possible to a reasonable hour in your destination.
As soon as you get on the plane, set your watch to the new time zone, so you’re on track from the outset.
How to Sleep on a Plane When You’re Wound Up
Leaving on a long-awaited journey can really get the adrenalin pumping, or perhaps it’s anxiety associated with flying that’s keeping you awake onboard.
Either way, mindful breathing helps to calm the mind but in case that doesn’t work, start taking some melatonin tablets before you leave. Melatonin is a hormone that tells your body when it needs to sleep, so popping these tabs is a sure-fire way to nod off.
Are you wondering if any of these tips on how to sleep on a plane could work for you? Get in touch to book your unforgettable southern African safari, it’s the best way to find out for yourself.
