Title:
Sleeping on a Plane? Avoid These Top Two Mistakes, Says Travel Expert
Content:
Sleeping on planes is a challenge for many travelers due to various factors that can make it difficult to relax during the journey. From noisy environments to uncomfortable seating positions, there are several obstacles that passengers face when trying to get some shut-eye in the air.
Pre-Flight Mistakes to Avoid
Even before you board the plane, there are common mistakes that passengers make that can affect their sleep quality during the flight. One such mistake is indulging in alcoholic drinks before takeoff. While it may be tempting to have a pre-flight drink to calm nerves or get into the vacation spirit, excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt sleep patterns and exacerbate symptoms of jet lag.
Dr. Henry Ting, a senior executive at Delta Air Lines, warns that alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration, making it harder for your body to adjust to new time zones. To ensure a restful flight, it’s recommended to enjoy alcohol in moderation and stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Sedatives and Sleep Quality
Another common mistake travelers make is relying on sedative medications to help them sleep on long-haul flights. While sedatives may seem like a quick fix for falling asleep, they can actually have the opposite effect. Sedatives impact neurotransmitters in the brain and can leave you feeling more stimulated than relaxed, hindering your ability to rest.
Dr. Ting suggests opting for a comfortable neck pillow and wearing cozy clothing to enhance sleep quality on flights. By avoiding sedatives and instead focusing on relaxation techniques, passengers can increase their chances of nodding off naturally during the journey.
Tips for a Better In-Flight Sleep Experience
To optimize your chances of getting a good night’s sleep while flying, it’s essential to follow expert advice and make strategic choices. Using a memory foam pillow and eye mask can provide added comfort and block out light, creating a conducive environment for rest.
Sticking to a routine of sleeping when it’s dark and waking when it’s light can help regulate your body’s internal clock and mitigate jet lag symptoms. Additionally, engaging in physical activity during daylight hours and avoiding stimulants like alcohol and caffeine before bedtime can promote better sleep quality.
Bringing along earplugs can also help reduce external noise disturbances and create a quieter sleeping environment. Flight attendants may assist in minimizing noise levels, but having earplugs on hand can offer an extra layer of defense against disturbances.