Enhancing comfort on economy flights with a sleep mask

If you've ever flown on a long-haul economy flight, you'll understand how complicated it is to get some quality sleep. With small seats, loud fellow passengers and bright cabin lights, it's tricky to get comfortable in such a confined space. But there's one simple item that can make a world of difference: a sleep mask. When you're trying to catch a quick nap or get a full night's sleep on a long-haul flight, a quality sleep mask can transform your experience and help you feel more rested upon arrival.

Why are economy flights so tough on sleep?

Economy-class seats are a great way to save money, but they rarely have the luxurious extras that make a flight bearable. The seats are smaller, the legroom is minimal, and the atmosphere is a bit chaotic, especially on crowded flights. Add the nonstop stream of announcements, the clattering of drink carts and the general noise of your fellow passengers, and you can see why sleep can be elusive.

The lighting in the cabin can also be particularly jarring. During long-haul flights, the cabin lights are often dimmed at night to create a more restful atmosphere. However, for some people, the overhead lights remain too bright to truly relax. During the day, it's hard to block out the glare from the sun coming through the windows. So, what's the solution? Sleep masks!

The power of a sleep mask

A sleep mask is a simple yet effective accessory that blocks out unwanted light and helps create a darker, more restful environment. This is particularly helpful when you're flying, as it can simulate the dark of night, even if the sun is shining brightly outside.

Blocking out light helps your body produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. If your body thinks it's nighttime, you're more likely to feel relaxed and ready to sleep without sleeping pills. When you're flying through different time zones, a sleep mask can help you adjust to your destination's time zone more easily.

Benefits of using a sleep mask during flights

1. Blocks light

One of the biggest distractions when flying is light. Whether sunlight streaming in through the window or overhead cabin lights, a sleep mask eliminates this problem. This can make it easier to get into the right mindset for sleep, especially during those awkward times when the cabin lights are on and you're trying to catch some shut-eye in your aisle seat.

2. Enhances sleep quality

It's not simply about blocking light; using a sleep mask can also make your sleep feel more restful. By creating a more peaceful, dark environment, you're giving yourself the best chance to fall into a deep sleep. The added darkness also keeps you from waking up too early, a common problem when you're trying to nap during the day.

3. Increases relaxation

The majority of sleep masks are fluffy and cosy. Therefore, they feel like a gentle embrace on your face. Their soft fabrics make it easier to settle in and get comfortable, which is key when you're trying to get a few hours of sleep in an unfamiliar setting. Some masks even come with extra features, such as cooling gels or memory foam, for an even more luxurious feeling.

4. Helps with jet lag

Travelling through multiple time zones often leads to jet lag. A sleep mask can help you reset your internal clock by making it easier to sleep when you need to. Whether you're flying overnight or during the day, wearing a sleep mask helps you simulate nighttime conditions so that your body can transition smoothly to the new time zone.

Tips to get restful sleep during long-haul flights

Long-haul flights can be draining, but by employing a few simple strategies, you can find ways to get a good night's sleep. Here are a few tips to improve your sleep on your next flight:

• Use noise-cancelling headphones: Invest in noise-cancelling headphones to block out engine noise and flight attendants' chatter, creating a peaceful environment for sleep.

• Fly business class: If possible, fly business class to have more space, better recline options, and a quieter atmosphere, all of which contribute to better sleep.

• Use a neck pillow: Support your head and neck with a comfortable neck pillow to reduce strain and sleep more soundly.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can interfere with your ability to relax and sleep.

• Choose an exit-row seat: Exit-row seats provide extra legroom, making it easier to stretch out and find a comfortable position to fall asleep. Avoid a window seat, as you might be exposed to too much light, as well as middle seats, which might be too confining.

Get ready for your economy flight with a Drowsy sleep mask

If you're sick of tossing and turning while trying to sleep on economy flights, investing in a sleep mask could be one of the easiest ways to improve your travel experience. It's an easy fix that can shut out even the tiniest ray of light and enhance your sleep quality so you arrive more refreshed at your destination. With an accessory as small as an eye mask, you can turn those torturous long-haul flight hours into some much-needed Zs.

Drowsy sleep masks are designed to provide the ultimate comfort and light-blocking power. Made with soft, breathable fabrics, they gently mould to your face, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that blocks out all light, no matter the time of day. Available in a variety of colours, such as the classic Black Jade silk sleep mask, the calming Blue Belle silk sleep mask, and the soft Lavender Haze silk sleep mask, there's a Drowsy mask to suit your style.