The Pre-Flight Travel Ritual That Can Help You Sleep On Airplanes

Getting on a plane ready to embark on a new adventure can be a thrilling experience up until you try to fall asleep on the plane. Especially if you're on a long-haul flight, it can feel like time is at a standstill and the flight is never ending if you can't manage to drift away into a parallel universe of dreams.

Sleeping on a flight can be quite challenging with babies crying, uncontrollable airplane noises, and of course the uncomfortable seating arrangements. But that doesn't mean it is impossible. In fact, there is a pre-flight ritual that can help some people fall asleep on planes. By considering physical, mental, and environmental factors, you can be prepared to doze off in maximum comfort while in the air. All you need to do is avoid these common tricks for sleeping on planes, arrive to the airport already sleepy, and fit in a bit of light exercise on the day of your travels. This routine can help you shake off anxiety, get rid of stress, and leave your body relaxed. Just be careful to avoid high-intensity workouts right before your flight; this kind of exercise can make you feel more awake.

One of the best ways to help combat jet lag and be able to fall asleep on a plane is by adjusting your sleep schedule in advance. Arrive to your flight drowsy and ready to drift off into dreamland. By adjusting your sleep schedule in the few days before your trip to a new time zone, your body will already be used to falling asleep during specific hours. This can help you feel sleepy on the flight and quickly overcome jet lag on your trip. 

Exercising — especially resistance training — before a flight can also help a great deal. If you can't find the time in your day to complete a full workout, try to do some light stretching and yoga before you head to the airport to relieve any tension and anxiety in the muscles and body as well as lower blood pressure. If you arrive early to the airport, you can even walk around to help your body relax. This light exercise may help make it possible to fall asleep on your flight. Don't forget to hydrate and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which could disrupt sleep. It's also recommended to eat a light, balanced meal before your flight to avoid feeling hungry or uncomfortable during the flight.

Getting your mind and body to release any tension and unwind is a great way to create a comfortable sleep environment during a flight. By establishing a relaxation routine through deep breathing exercises or meditation before boarding, you can embark on your flight with a calm and relaxed mind. There are even meditation apps and calming music options that can help you overcome a fear of flying and get your brain into a serene, soothed mindset. 

In order to increase your chances of sleeping, you can pack sleep-enhancing essentials such as noise-canceling headphones, a comfortable neck pillow, and an eye mask that can block out distractions and light. Don't forget to wear loose, comfortable clothing and layer well so that you can be prepared for cold or hot aircrafts. 

If you really want to sleep on the plane, be sure to leverage in-flight hacks for better sleep such as selecting a seat with extra leg room and choosing a window seat to be able to rest your head on the side and minimize distractions from other passengers wanting to get up. Last but not least, opt for a seat that you can recline without disrupting the passengers behind you. With these travel hacks, you can enjoy dozing off and relieve the stress of flying.