Genius way packing cubes might help you sleep better on a plane
Despite having plenty of experience packing and unpacking a suitcase, packing cubes are not something I use regularly.
But recently I came across a slightly different use for them that could make getting some shut eye on a flight so much easier.
Most long-haul airlines provide blankets and pillows to passengers, but some of them do little to offer support (many budget airlines will even charge you for them!).
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It's hard to get comfortable sleeping on a plane. Getty
Enter the packing cube pillow. The idea is you use a small packing cube in your carry on, or simply tuck an empty one in your bag which you can pop your jacket in, for example.
That handy piece of advice came from a seasoned traveller in a recently resurfaced TikTok clip.
"Here's a tip for winter airplane travel," she shared.
"Slip an empty packing cube into your personal item."
"If you don't wear your heavy winter coat on the plane, tuck it into the pouch. That will keep your coat tidy and clean when you put it in the overhead bin or under your seat."
Or in our case, use it as a pillow!
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Packing cubes have so many uses beyond organisation. Getty Images/iStockphoto
The advice was echoed in a Reddit thread asking about whether packing cubes were worth it or not.
One traveller responded saying: "You can use it as an emergency pillow on airplane."
Indeed, it seems packing cubes have so many uses beyond simple organisation.
"I don't remember the last time I saw a hack that is actually unique, practical, and actionable," one person raved in the comments of the viral video.
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There are a few things we can try to get comfortable on a plane. Getty
Travel app Skyscanner revealed earlier this year that 65 per cent of passengers said they struggle to find a good position to sleep in, and it's their biggest struggle when travelling.
But there are more little things you can do to make yourself more comfortable and hopefully get a couple hours' rest, according to sleep experts at Amerisleep.
"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 shared.
"Loosening your laces on the plane can alleviate discomfort and promote healthy circulation, aiding in longer, more restful sleep."
