Many of us have experienced the trouble of trying to doze on an airplane. With so many things happening, such as people walking down aisles, smells of food, drink services, and crying children, it's a wonder that anyone can fall asleep on a plane.
And don't forget the emotions felt when leaving. Before a trip begins, there is planning, preparation and other stresses that must be faced; at the airport, it's parking, security checkpoints and flight delays; and finally, the anticipation and excitement about arriving at the destination, all of which can heighten our energy levels, making it harder to sleep.
What can you do to improve your odds of falling asleep on an airplane? Here are 10 suggestions to consider.
1. Wear ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones.
2. Use a neck pillow for support.
3. Wear cotton or wool clothes, such as a light sweater. These fabrics breathe to allow heat to escape from the body.
4. Bring your own blanket. If you are"lucky" enough to get one, the polyester ones supplied by the airlines can trap heat the body and - let's face it - are not too sanitary.
5. Recline your seat back as much as possible. Studies have shown that inclines of 40 degrees or more can help us fall asleep, although seats of this capability may only be found in business or first class.
6. Eat meals at regular times, to avoid changing your internal body clocks, which can disrupt normal sleep patterns.
7. Eat lighter meals, to avoid feeling too full.
8. Finish your planning before leaving for the airport. This allows your mind to relax once stressful planning activities are forgotten.
9. Stay adequately hydrated. As a rule, drink 8 ounces of water for every hour of flight time.
10. On longer flights of 2 or more hours, be sure to get up and walk for a few minutes every 2 hours. This activity, in combination with staying hydrated, can help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.
If you normally have trouble trying to sleep during flights, see your health care provider about prescription remedies. A sleeping pill may help, but don't get frustrated if it doesn't work as expected. The fact remains that a crowded airplane is simply a hard place to relax and catch some zzzzs.
Do you have any helpful tips to add to this list? Share your suggestions here.