Traveling is an exhausting experience. Just getting through airport security can drain a person, and if you’re traveling internationally, then you might be spending a full workday or more on a plane. Ideally, you’d be able to rest, relax, and drift asleep so that the trip went by in the blink of an eye. But many people have trouble sleeping on planes. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of actually catching some shuteye next time you’re on a plane.

 

Sleep Mask

Pack a sleep mask. One of the biggest problems for people trying to sleep outside of their normal pattern is dealing with an excess of light. People naturally have an easier time sleeping when it’s completely dark, but even when the plane’s lights are off, and the windows are closed, it might still be too dark. To fix this just bring a sleep mask. The mask will block out light and help you convince your subconscious that it’s nighttime, sending you on a journey toward sleep land.

Watch What You Drink

Watch what you drink. Many people think that alcohol helps people sleep, but science has shown that in most cases alcohol consumption can make it harder to sleep. And don’t even think about drinking caffeine! If you get offered coffee, soda, wine, or beer, it’s best if you just say no. At least, if sleeping is truly your priority.

Earplugs

Find peace and quiet. It can be hard to sleep when you have to listen to the world around you. Investing in earplugs will allow you to keep sound out of your ears. Try and look for earplugs that are made for use in planes because they will also help you maintain proper pressure in your ears and help you avoid pain.

Neck Pillow

Pack a neck pillow. It can be hard to get the neck support your body needs on a plane. Even when planes offer complimentary pillows, they’re often flimsy things that won’t give you the support you need. Bringing your own neck pillow will help ensure that you have the support you need to get some much-needed sleep.

There you have it, four ways that you can help improve your chances of sleeping on a plane. You might have noticed that most of these tips involve bringing something along with you. If you want to cover your eyes, plug your ears, or support your neck, then you should plan ahead. A little bit of packing now can help you get to sleep later!