Does sleep elude you on long, overseas flights? We’ve all been there—the cramped quarters, noisy passengers, and overhead lights can make it a challenge to get some shut-eye, especially when time zone changes necessitate it. Not everyone has the privilege of extra legroom upgrades and first-class seats. Luckily, that’s where sleep expert, Martin Seely, CEO of MattressNextDay, comes in.
As reported by MSN, Seely has five tried and true tips to help even the most restless of sleepers get some much-needed dozing done on the airplane.
Tip #1: Pick your seat strategically. To minimize noise levels around you, opt for a seat further away from the bathroom, where people tend to clamor during flights. Instead, pick a seat closer to the wing, which is often quieter and can have more legroom. Additionally, if you’re traveling internationally, it’s smart to choose a seat near the front of the plane so you’ll spend less time waiting for food and more time catching those z’s.
Tip #2: Prepare a sleep kit for your flight. Fill your carry-on with sleeping essentials, like noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, ear plugs, and a travel pillow. Even cotton socks can help make you more comfortable for the duration of your flight.
Tip #3: Take a 30-minute walk before you board. Exercising helps to improve the quality of your sleep, so before you board your flight, make use of that time by taking a stroll around the airport.
Tip #4: Download a white noise app. Fire up this handy app en route to your destination to help cancel out all of the added cacophony that often accompanies air travel.
Tip #5: Don’t drink alcohol on the plane. Even though it might soothe you to sleep a little faster, alcohol inhibits high-quality sleep. Instead, drink water on board, which will not only keep you hydrated but will also prevent you from being extra tired the next morning.