Sleeping on Planes: Tips & Tricks

The Singapore Airlines A380 Business Class seat in bed mode
The Singapore Airlines A380 Business Class seat in bed mode. Photo: Matt Graham.

After discovering AFF two years ago, member dhein has been using the tips & tricks learned to upgrade to Business and First class. Thanks to frequent flyer points, this member has now flown in the pointy end on several different airlines.

dhein has loved the extra space and superior catering of the pointy end, but there’s one thing they haven’t been able to achieve: a decent sleep. This member has tried everything, but even a lie-flat bed on a brand new plane has failed to help our member get a good night’s sleep in the air.

This member is not alone in their struggle for a decent kip at 40,000 feet. Many of our members have trouble sleeping on planes, and have experimented with all sorts of sleep strategies.

Some find that sleeping tablets help. Earplugs or a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can block out most of the background noise. Meanwhile, a good eye shade should block out the cabin light. Several members recommend a “3D mask” as a more comfortable and effective option.

Another suggestion is to eat in the lounge before the flight. This maximises the time available for sleep on board, especially on shorter overnight sectors. Avoiding alcohol can also help as this can cause dehydration and mess up your body’s sleep clock.

Other tips for sleeping on planes include wearing a comfortable pair of pyjamas and reclining the seat only part of the way. Some airlines provide pyjamas to Business and First class passengers, but often you’ll need to bring your own.

Even a private First class Suite with a lie-flat bed cannot replicate the comfort and peace of your own bed at home. Some members simply can’t sleep on planes, no matter which class of travel they’re in or how tired they feel. Instead of trying to force sleep, they simply accept the inevitable and try to enjoy the experience.

Do you have trouble sleeping on planes? Join the discussion HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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