You're on a red-eye flight. It'll take, according to the captain, 12 hours to reach your destination. You barely got any sleep last night, and you were rushing through last-minute packing all morning and afternoon before you had to get to the airport, so you're tired. You feel it in your bones. But then your flight takes off, and hours later, you're still wide awake. What gives?
If you're wondering how to get some shut-eye on your long-haul flight, we have some tips and tricks that might just help. For some, it may feel impossible without bringing the right essentials, so make sure you pack smart for every trip. Here's how to catch some ZZZs at 35,000 feet.
Choose the Right Seat
When your airline opens its online check-in, make sure you're logging in right away to snag your seat. You don't want to be waiting until the day of your departure to choose where you'll sit—or you might end up smack in the middle of two strangers.
The most coveted seats on the plane are window and aisle, but it'll depend on what you prefer for getting uninterrupted rest. Because no one disturbs you when you're by the window, you'll be less likely to wake up in the middle of the flight, and that may make it a better choice. But if you're the type who likes getting up every now and then to stretch or use the bathroom, you might want the aisle seat instead. Keep in mind, though, that even if you don't get up frequently, your two seatmates likely will.
Bring Essentials
It's not just the seat you choose that matters; the essentials you bring (or forget to bring) matter, too. Long-haul flights usually provide pillows and blankets, but if you sleep better with your own, bring your own. That way, you don't have to worry about how clean or unclean the ones provided by the airline are. You can also pack a warmer jacket and a travel pillow as well, if you don't want to bring actual blankets and pillows.
Another thing you'll definitely want to pack in your carry-on? Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds. You might not be seated near children, but if you're a light sleeper, you'll want to make sure nothing interrupts your peaceful rest.
Be Smart About What You Eat and Drink
Don't eat anything too heavy or greasy before your flight; you'll regret it soon enough. Not only will it be hard on your digestive system, but you'll also find it harder to fall asleep when your tummy doesn't feel so well. Caffeine and alcohol can also sabotage your sleep.
What should you eat instead? Stick to lighter meals, like simple sandwiches, soups, and salads. Anything that you know your gut will digest without trouble, choose those dishes instead. You'll also want to drink plenty of water to make sure you're not dehydrated while you fly.
While following these tips, listen to some mellow tunes, watch a movie, or read a book. As the lights in the cabin dim, you might just fall asleep before you know it.
