Wondering how to fall asleep on a plane? There is nothing more unpleasant than looking at a dozing neighbor when you can't close your eyes. Make sure this doesn't happen to you on your next flight.
Do you also want to spend a large part of the year sleeping next time?! How to fall asleep on a plane full of passengers and action? Online travel platform Conde Cont has collected advice from various experts and seasoned travel cats and made a list of things that, for good sleep, should be taken into account in the following year.
Consider the time zone you are flying to
The first question you should ask yourself: Should you be sleeping at all? "If you haven't adjusted your schedule to the time zone of your destination before the flight, you can do it on the plane," says Jeff Kahn, sleep expert and founder of the Rise Science app.
He's sure you'll want to avoid eating on the plane if it's nighttime at your destination. A 2017 study found that eating according to the new time zone during the year can speed up the adjustment. Studies show that high-calorie diets can prevent you from adjusting to your new time zone.
Prepare a set of accessories for sleep hygiene
Putting in a little extra effort to improve your in-flight experience will pay off. So pack earplugs, an eye mask and lavender essential oil into your kit, which will calm you down even more and help you fall asleep. Melatonin in gummy or tablet form can also be of great help on night flights, but it's a good idea to make sure your body tolerates it well before trying it on a flight.
"Short-term use of melatonin can help change your circadian rhythm before traveling to help you fall asleep on the plane and, if necessary, adjust to the time zone at your new destination," believes Kahn, who advises that you consult your doctor before taking melatonin.
Watch what you drink
You may be tempted to pass the time on the plane with caffeine or alcohol - but if you avoid the temptation, you may find it much easier to fall asleep. This type of drink can accelerate dehydration, which worsens the symptoms of jet lag.
For a calming effect and better sleep on the plane, it is better to drink herbal tea. Turkish Airlines, for example, offers a selected blend of herbal teas designed for relaxation and better digestion, and you can also bring a bag of your favorite tea with you on the plane. It's an easy way to make sure you get exactly what you want, even if the airline you're flying only serves fruit.
Don't be afraid of comfort
Dressing comfortably is crucial on long flights. After take-off, you can undress and put on a pair of warm socks and a pair of foldable travel slippers. This will reduce the pressure on your feet, making you more comfortable, almost like home. You can also change into comfortable clothes and perform a simplified skincare routine and brush your teeth, tricking your body into letting it know you're getting ready for bed.
