If you’ve ever tried to catch some shut-eye on a plane, you’ll know it can feel like an Olympic sport—one that most of us are destined to lose.
Between the cramped seats, the endless parade of snack trolleys, and the symphony of coughs and sneezes, it’s a wonder anyone manages to nod off at all.
But what if we told you there’s a simple trick flight attendants use to drift off, even at 30,000 feet?
Meet Sherry Peters, a seasoned international flight attendant with nearly three decades of experience and a staggering 12 flights a month under her belt. If anyone knows how to get comfortable in the sky, it’s Sherry.
She recently shared her top sleep secrets with the team at Sleepy’s, and we think her advice is a game-changer—especially for those of us who dread long-haul flights.
The Seat Selection Secret
Before you even step foot on the plane, Sherry says your seat choice can make or break your chances of a restful journey. ‘Seats near the galley or toilets are the absolute worst if you’re trying to sleep,’ she warns.
The constant foot traffic, people queuing for the loo, slamming doors, and bustling crew activity make these spots a no-go for light sleepers.
Instead, Sherry swears by the window seat. Not only does it give you something to lean against, but it also lets you control the light and avoid being disturbed by fellow passengers climbing over you.
Plus, you can use the wall as a makeshift pillow—just don’t forget to bring a travel pillow or a soft jumper for extra comfort.
The First Thing To Do After Boarding
Here’s where Sherry’s pro tip comes in: as soon as she’s able, she closes the window shade. ‘Closing the shade as soon as I sit down signals my brain that it’s time to sleep,’ she explains. This simple act helps create a dark, calming environment, even if the rest of the cabin is buzzing with activity.
But she doesn’t stop there. Sherry creates her own ‘sleep bubble’ by draping a blanket or jacket over her head. It might look a bit odd, but it tricks her brain into thinking it’s quiet and dark, helping her drift off faster.
Of course, you’ll need to keep your window shade open during takeoff, but once you’re in the air, it’s fair game.
Hydration and Control: The Real Sleep Game-Changers
While many of us blame jet lag or uncomfortable seats for our sleepless flights, Sherry says the real culprit is often a lack of control over our environment—and dehydration.
Aeroplane cabins are notoriously dry, so make sure you’re sipping water regularly (and maybe go easy on the wine, tempting as it may be).
Don’t Forget Your Feet!
Here’s a tip you might not have considered: your shoes could be sabotaging your sleep. According to sleep experts at Amerisleep, tightly laced shoes can compress nerves and restrict blood flow, making your feet go numb.
Loosen your laces or slip your shoes off (if you’re brave enough!) to promote healthy circulation and help you relax.
Extra Tips for Seniors: Making Flying More Comfortable
Here are a few more tried-and-true tips to make your next flight a little more restful:
Pack a sleep kit
Eye mask, earplugs, neck pillow, and a lightweight blanket can make a world of difference.
Dress in layers
Cabin temperatures can fluctuate, so wear comfortable, breathable clothing you can adjust as needed.
Move regularly
Even if you’re trying to sleep, make sure to stretch your legs and wiggle your toes every hour or so to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Choose flights wisely
If possible, book overnight flights that align with your natural sleep schedule, and try to avoid connections that leave you stranded in airports at odd hours.
Getting quality rest while travelling isn’t just about comfort—it’s about health. For older Australians, disrupted sleep can lead to increased fatigue, irritability, and even impact their immune system.
Prioritising rest on long flights can help you enjoy your holiday or visit with family to the fullest.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right seat is crucial for sleep on a plane, with window seats recommended over those near the galley or toilets, which are noisy and busy.
- As soon as she boards, Sherry closes the window shade and creates a personal ‘sleep bubble’ with a blanket or jacket to trick her brain into sleep mode.
- Controlling your environment, like managing light and staying hydrated, is more important than sheer comfort when it comes to getting rest on a flight.
- Loosening your shoe laces during the flight can improve circulation and help prevent numb feet, contributing to a better, more restful sleep.
Have you tried any of these tips, or do you have your own tricks for getting some shut-eye in the sky? Maybe you swear by a certain pillow, or you’ve found the perfect playlist to drown out the noise. We’d love to hear your stories and advice—share your best travel sleep hacks with us!
