Between rushing to pack, getting to the airport and staying alert once you land, the flight itself is sometimes the best place to catch up on sleep when you travel. Not able to do it? Try this next time you fly.
Choose a window seat when making a flight reservation. This gives you control of the sunshade and a place to lean and rest other than the passenger next to you. If your airline asks you to claim a seat as you board, be sure to check-in and arrive early.
You can take an over-the-counter motion sickness pill just before boarding if traveling makes you a little queasy. Avoid the “non-drowsy” formulas, of course, and you could be sleepy by the time you are settled in.
Turn your window seat into a sleeping berth as soon as possible. Close the window shade, adjust your overhead air vent, and bunch your jacket against the window into a makeshift pillow before chatty company arrives. This will make it clear that you don't want to be disturbed.
If at all possible, skip the refreshment and snack offers, or you will be keeping one eye open looking for your drink instead of sleeping. Or, if you are only after a quick nap, place your order and use it as a wake-up call when it arrives.
If you are still not able to sleep after take-off, you now have some new options. You can recline your seat (if you are not shy about the personal space of people behind you) or use your “approved portable electronic device” to play your favorite lullaby music as soon as you are told it is safe. Some planes include continuous radio channels in their armrests, but you may have to purchase a headset to use them. Especially on crowded flights, use earplugs to reduce the noise.
Still not quite there? You can raise the window shade and watch the scenery outside until you feel drowsy. Instead of sheep, count the clouds outside and remember that while you are in the air there is nothing to do but clear your mind and relax!
