How to sleep on an airplane (when you fly economy class)
It's easy to sleep on an airplane when you fly first or business class with a reclining seat and some French sleeping medication (a.k.a. champagne). But what a struggle it is to catch 40 winks when you fly economy class on a long-haul flight. Although it's been proven that the best body posture for sleeping is lying completely flat, you can still make the most of what you've got with your hard-earned economy class ticket.
Here are some tips that will have you nodding off immediately - although hopefully not before you finish reading this article!
Wait until after the service
It's hard to fall asleep when everyone around you is eating and those service carts are clunking down the aisles. Wait for the initial fuss to pass before you try to sleep - especially if your ticket includes a free meal!
Block out background noise
Ear plugs are an option, but personally I've discovered that headphones playing quiet, consistent sounds work better (meditation music, babbling brooks, the gentle sound of the ocean etc.).
Look away from the light!
An eye mask is essential in your quest for some shut-eye in the sky. It's the perfect prevention for that inevitable moment when your inconsiderate neighbor opens the shutters or turns on the lights.
Stay snug as a bug in a rug
