Sleepless on a Plane? Not Anymore – Here’s How to Catch Real Zzz’s!!

Last Updated on Sep 16th, 2025 by Neha Sharma, Leave a Comment

Hi there! So, you are about to tackle that long haul flight? If so, maybe you’re already fearing the thought of being conscious for 12+ hours in a plane seat playing the game of stay conscious & count the tiles on the roof. If so, trust us, you are not alone. Sleeping on a plane especially on an overnight flight is the similar of trying to have a nap on a rollercoaster – difficult, uncomfortable & downright irritating.

But what if I said that doesn’t have to be the case? You can sleep better on those long flights. Awarded, it may not be like your cozy bed but with a little organization & some clever hacks you will get off in India feeling significantly more refreshed. Let’s explore some of the tips as well as some travel hacks. 

Let’s Get Real | Why is Sleeping on a Plane So Hard?

Planes aren’t exactly the best for bedtime, are they? The cabin lighting is far from relaxing the space is cramped the seats do not  recline much &  there is constant noise from engines & chatty passengers. In extra, the temperature fluctuates greatly you can be freezing one minute & boiling the next &  the air is extremely dry!

However, the first step is to comprehend these difficulties. Planning how to cooperate with the environment and overcome the obstacles becomes simpler once you are aware of what is working against you.

What Flights Are Aussie Travelers Taking to India?

A brief reminder of the flight routes you may be taking before the sleep hacks – 

• Nonstop flights – Direct flights to Delhi from Melbourne or Sydney. These typically take 12 to 13 hours. The absence of lengthy layovers is a huge plus here.
• Connecting flights – Your journey may take a long time if you are traveling to places like Bangalore or Amritsar or if you are flying via Southeast Asia or the Middle East. More flights mean more opportunities to become sleepy and agitated.

Thanks to Air India and Qantas you will have a head start on your reason & sleep if you are fortunate enough to catch a direct flight!

So, How Can You Actually Sleep on a Plane? Here’s the Facts!

1. Grab a Window Seat – Your New Best Friend

Really, go for the window seat if you want to fall asleep. Why? You have a wall to lean against (hello, nap buddy) &  you won’t have to get up all the time when people move around or poke you with their elbows.

Steer clear of seats close to restrooms or kitchens. Believe me there is more foot traffic & noise in those areas. You are in luck if you can find an exit row or bulkhead with more legroom!

2. Dress Like You’re Going to a Cozy PJ Party

Your comfort level can be affected by your attire. Wear layers of soft stretchy clothing that you can remove or add as the cabin temperature changes. The plane floors can get cold so do not forget to bring some thick socks.

3. Make Your Travel Kit a Sleep Sanctuary

Never undervalue the importance of having : – 

• A comfortable eye mask to block out distracting cabin light.
• Use quality earplugs or noise cancelling headphones to block out the constant chatter & drones.
• A comfortable neck-supporting travel pillow that prevents kinking when you wake up.

4. Drink Lots of Water, Skip the Coffee and Booze

In fact staying hydrated is essential due to the extremely dry air on airplanes. But alcohol and caffeine? They are the enemy of restful sleep. If they have soothing herbal teas or water get those.

5. Trick Your Body Clock Before You Fly

Here’s a little secret: – start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days prior to the trip to accommodate India’s time zone if at all possible. Try to get some rest when it’s nighttime at your destination while you are on board. In heart, you are telling your body that it is time to go to bed.

6. Eat Light, Eat Right

Heavy meals on flights are a no-go. They mess with your digestion and can keep you awake or feeling icky. Opt for light snacks & maybe a smaller meal before boarding.

7. Take Full Advantage of That Recline Button

When it’s time to snooze, lean back & get comfy. Even a little recline helps your body relax & can make a surprising difference.

8. Consider Sleep Aids, but Test Them First

If you are tempted by over-the-counter sleep aids or melatonin supplements give them a try before your flight to see how your body responds. As well, if you are not sure consult your physician.

9. Don’t Forget to Move

Moving seems irrational if you want to sleep, I know. However, stretching occasionally or taking a quick walk can help ease stiffness & restlessness.

10. Try Breathing Exercises or Meditation

Try some relaxation methods if your mind is racing. Deep breathing exercises or apps that promote meditation can help you relax & fall asleep.

Aussies Main Flight Routes to India!

• Melbourne – Delhi 
• Sydney – Hyderabad
• Perth – Bangalore 
• Melbourne – Mumbai 
• Brisbane – Chennai 
• Adelaide – Kolkata 

If you can book direct flights do so because they offer fewer transitions & a better chance of sleeping through the majority of the trip.

Wrapping Up – Make Peace with Plane Sleep and Own It!

You see your bed at home won’t feel exactly like your bed on a plane. You may experience infrequent rest instead of nonstop deep sleep but don’t give up! Make use of these strategies as your go-to tool for getting the most rest possible.

Prepare your body clock, pack sensibly, pick your seat carefully & drink plenty of water. After that prepare to arrive in India feeling much more like yourself.

Feel free to share your own tips or stories about sleeping on those long Australia to India flights. What works for you? Drop your thoughts below – let’s chat! Or if you need any assistance MyTicketsToIndia is here to always you! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best way to sleep on a plane?

A: Use earplugs, an eye mask, a neck pillow, comfortable layers & a window seat. To help your body adjust for flight sleep, drink plenty of water, stay away from alcohol and caffeine, and set your watch to the time of your destination.

Q: How to sleep comfortably in an economy class flight?

A: Make a ‘mini cocoon.’ Use a pillow and eye mask, listen to relaxing music, keep your seatbelt visible, and, if at all possible, pick a window. Even in confined spaces, this greatly facilitates sleeping on an airplane.

Q: Why do I struggle to sleep on planes?

A: Sleep on flights is disrupted by time zone changes, dry air, crowded seats & cabin noise. You can fall asleep more quickly if you prepare with hydration, sleep aids & a calm attitude.

Q: How to sleep in a middle seat?

A: Tuck elbows in use a scarf to block side light & support yourself with a travel pillow or rolled jacket. Sleeping in the middle seat on an airplane is made possible by little adjustments like these.

Q: How to sleep on a plane with anxiety?

A: Take deep breaths listen to relaxing music or apps & avoid coffee. Even if you are anxious a quick routine using an eye mask & pillow tells your body it’s time to relax & promotes sleep on an airplane.

Q: How to sleep on a plane medication?

A: Before taking melatonin or mild sleep aids, speak with your doctor. Use the lowest dosage take it while seated & never combine it with alcohol to ensure a safe night’s sleep on a plane.

Q: How to sleep on a plane aisle seat?

A: Keep your arms & knees in lean slightly toward the window & fasten your seatbelt over your blanket. This lessens bumps & enhances aisle seat sleep.

Q: How to sleep on a plane without a neck pillow?

A: Use a blanket or roll up a sweater over the airline pillow to support your neck. These suggestions enable flight sleep without the need for extra gear – if required, gently lean forward on the tray table.

Q: What are the best products for sleeping on a plane?

A: Noise-cancelling headphones, compression socks, a silk eye mask, a memory foam neck pillow & a travel blanket or scarf. These transform airplane sleep into true rest.