Tips to Sleep More During Travel

When I was kid, we took long car trips. We always left at 4:00 a.m. so we could reach our destination before dark. I guess morning dark is better than night dark. The whole plan was disruptive to my mood. There was no video player stuck in the headrest and no video games to play. The only video at all was flat scenery flying past my window and the only video game was counting telephone poles. My Mom’s advice to me on those occasions was “just lie down and go to sleep and when you wake up we will be there.” Since there were no seat belts to restrict my movements, that is exactly what I did.

As an adult, I wished Moms advice applied to airline travel. I just want to go to sleep and be there when I wake up. It might work if I bought up three seats to stretch out on. That is a little pricey so I searched out some plane sleeping ideas. Most of these ideas are for flights under 5 hours and some could be useful for helping your child sleep as well as yourself. None of them involves the use of Benadryl for either of you.  Here are 5 easy tips to help you sleep on planes:

• I put together a small travel bag with the things I nap with at home. It contains a lightweight cotton throw that goes over my shoulders and face. Next is a small memory foam pillow in a soft pillowcase, earplugs, and a little snack bar. I need something to read while I eat my snack bar before falling asleep.
• Comfortable outfits that do not roll or bind are best. I have to have socks on so whatever I wear has to look well with athletic shoes and socks.
• Try for a window seat so you have something to prop your pillow against. Gazing out the window may be hypnotic enough to help you doze off.
• Avoid eye contact with anyone looking perky.
• With earplugs in, a pillow under your head and a cotton throw over your face and upper body, you have signaled that you do not want to be disturbed.

A couple of other ideas are no caffeine before the flight and no sedatives. You will arrive feeling groggy instead of rested. Find your best flight time and book that whenever possible. Mine is not 4:00 a.m. but I have found 3:00 p.m. is perfect. I feel a little sleepy that time of day anyway. If you are traveling with a child, schedule your flight during their usual nap-time. An adrenaline-fueled rush for the gate will cancel all your well-laid nap plans so arrive early. Both of you will benefit from a long casual stroll through the terminal. Sweet dreams and soft landings.

This website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Live & Sleep is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of this website. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.