Some people have trouble sleeping during long flights, and that is understandable. There are plenty of people who have issues with flying, much less getting sleep while inside the plane. And the thing is getting no sleep on an 18-hour flight, for instance, will leave you feeling lethargic and weary, even while you have just been sitting there the whole time. It affects you once you are off the plane and back to the ground, to your routine. That’s what jet lag is.

There are some practical ways to help you make sleeping above thousands of feet easy. For instance, you can avoid caffeinated drinks and also alcohol before you board your flight. Alcohol, in particular, has an adverse effect to you body while you are cramped inside the plane. Instead, just drink water. Lots and lots of it.

If you have to be careful with what you drink, then you also need to watch what you eat. Try bananas. They contain melatonin, which is a muscle relaxant. There’s a reason why they serve peanuts on flights. It’s packed with high-fiber to help your body relax. If you are a meat-eater, some meats may contain tryptophan which actually causes people to take naps after dinner.

The clothes and shoes you wear during travel may also be the reason why you are not getting the sleep you need. You could fuss and fidget over it, while you are at our seat so wear something comfortable, then.

You can also try music — soft and relaxing music. It helps your body adjust through the long flight.

Lastly, if you have planned the trip ahead of time, get the best seating reservation to get that peace and quiet you need for the next 18-hours or so.

via Courant