Struggle to fall asleep on planes? The answer might lie with your shoelaces
Unless you're one of the lucky few who travels in business or first class, it can be tricky to get a good sleep while you're on a plane.
However, there are a few little things you can do to make yourself more comfortable and hopefully get a couple hours' rest, according to sleep experts at Amerisleep.
First of all: loosen your shoelaces.
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Sleeping on planes isn't easy. Getty
"Wearing tightly laced shoes for an extended time can compress nerves and restrict blood flow to your feet, causing them to go numb while you rest," experts say.
"Loosening your laces on the plane can alleviate discomfort and promote healthy circulation, aiding in longer, more restful sleep."
An even better choice would be wearing comfortable, slip-on shoes or investing in travel socks to give your feet more freedom while you sleep.
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Loosen your shoelaces to increase your comfort. Getty
Similarly, try to avoid wearing jeans on long-haul flights.
"Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring layers to adjust to varying temperatures," the Amerisleep experts advise.
"Avoid tight clothing that can restrict circulation, although some people swear by a pair of compression socks."
Regular stretching and moving around - even just small in-seat exercises - can prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
Staying hydrated is also key to getting a good sleep. While drinking plenty of water is essential, you also should try to keep your skin hydrated too. Pack a thick facial moisturiser in your carry-on, and reapply as needed.
Avoid alcohol on long flights if you want to sleep. Getty
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Similarly, you should steer clear of drinking booze on flights. Though it might be appealing to knock back a glass of wine to help you drift off, it can have the opposite effect, Max Stevens from the Sleep Checklist told 9Travel last year.
"Drinking alcohol will decrease your sleep quality as you spend less time in the Rapid Eye Movement stage of sleep. This means that even when you wake you will feel tired and sluggish," Stevens said.
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