Ashwin Lewis
Sleeping on a plane is challenging, especially without a neck pillow. While some travellers swear by neck pillows, others find them useless. So, how can you sleep on a plane without a neck pillow? Well, you can try leaning against the window, using the tray table as a pillow, or wearing a flight blanket as a scarf for neck support. If you're determined to avoid neck pillows, you might try a simple trick: don't try to fall asleep. Instead, relax, listen to music, and if you're tired enough, sleep will come.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Seat position | Window seat, preferably on the left side of the plane, in the wings area |
| Head position | Avoid sleeping on your back. Rest your head against the window or the side of the plane. |
| Pillow type | Inflatable, memory foam, TRTL, J-Pillow, or a soft pillow with beans in it |
| Pillow position | Backward, with the gap behind the head, or sideways to prevent the head from drooping |
| Pillow adjustments | Remove some filling to allow more room for your head to lean backward |
| Other accessories | Eye mask, earplugs, earphones, travel blanket, scarf |
| Activities | Listen to music, read, do crosswords |
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What You'll Learn
Lean against the window or side of the plane
If you're lucky enough to have a window seat, you can try leaning against the window to sleep. This is a common way to sleep on a plane, and you'll often see people sleeping this way on other forms of transport, such as cars, buses, and ferries.
To lean against the window, you can use the window itself or the side of the plane to support your head. You can also bring a small pillow to reduce the vibration of the panel around the window, which some people find disruptive. If you're using a neck pillow, you can place it sideways against the window to support your head.
Sitting by the window also gives you something to lean on away from your seatmates, which can be more comfortable. It's worth noting that some people prefer the window seat for sleeping, even if they usually choose an aisle seat.
If you're having trouble getting comfortable, you can try adjusting your posture. Sitting up straight and avoiding slouching can help prevent neck strain and muscle tension. You can also try using the headrest for extra support.
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Use a travel blanket as a scarf
If you're looking for a way to sleep on a plane without a neck pillow, one option is to use a travel blanket as a scarf. This method can help prevent your head from drooping forward and will also keep your neck warm. Here's how to do it:
Firstly, fold the blanket in half and tuck one end through the loop, so you have a large loop that you can put over your head. Then, adjust the loop so that it sits comfortably around your neck, with the loop in front. This will create a supportive structure to rest your head on and prevent the forward head droop that can occur when trying to sleep upright.
This method is particularly useful if you suffer from Dropped Head Syndrome, also known as Floppy Head Syndrome or Head Ptosis, which is a condition that involves weakness in the back-neck muscles. However, it's important to be cautious and aware of any improvised wrappings around your neck to avoid suffocation.
In addition to using a travel blanket as a scarf, there are other strategies you can employ to enhance your comfort and sleep on a plane. These include:
- Choosing a window seat to lean against.
- Using the tray table by placing a blanket on it and leaning forward with a pillow supporting your head.
- Dulling your senses with an eye mask and earplugs or earbuds.
- Taking melatonin or listening to music, reading, or doing crosswords to relax.
While a travel blanket can be a helpful tool, it's important to note that finding a comfortable sleeping position on a plane can be challenging. A good travel pillow, an adjustable seat, and experimenting with different sleeping positions can also aid in getting some shut-eye during your flight.
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Try a TRTL neck pillow
If you're looking for a comfortable way to sleep on a plane without a neck pillow, you might want to try a TRTL neck pillow. Unlike traditional U-shaped travel pillows, the TRTL pillow is designed to wrap around your neck like a scarf, providing support and preventing your head from flopping forward. This unique, patented design can be adjusted to achieve top-level comfort and ultimate neck support. The internal support system keeps your head and neck in an upright, ergonomic position, reducing aches and strains. Made with super-soft fleece and plush cushioning, the TRTL pillow provides a comfortable and refreshing sleep experience during long flights.
One of the benefits of the TRTL pillow is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing only 4.5oz, it can be easily attached to your backpack or luggage without taking up too much space. The pillow is also easy to pack and carry, making it a convenient travel companion. Additionally, the TRTL pillow is machine-washable and fast-drying, ensuring that you can keep it fresh and clean for your next trip.
The TRTL pillow offers a customizable fit, allowing you to position it on either side or the front of your neck to suit your preferences. It fits any neck shape, jaw, and shoulder, ensuring a comfortable sleep for all. With its thermoregulating fabric, the TRTL pillow also helps maintain a comfortable temperature during your journey.
TRTL pillows come in a range of colours, including Sorbet, Seafoam, Oyster, and classic Grey. They are now also available with a handy bag, making them even more portable and convenient for travellers. The TRTL neck pillow has received positive reviews from users, with some praising its comfort and effectiveness in providing support and preventing neck pain during flights.
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Use the tray table as a pillow
If you're struggling to sleep on a plane without a neck pillow, one option is to make use of the tray table. This method can be effective, although it may not be the most comfortable option.
To do this, put the tray table down and lean over it, resting your arms or head on the surface. This can provide a place to rest your head and may help you to sleep, although it may not be the most natural position for your body. The height of the tray table may also be an issue, especially for shorter individuals, as it might be too close to your chest, making it difficult to lean over.
You can adjust this setup to find a more comfortable position. For example, you could place a bag or cushion on the tray table to raise the height and create a more natural position for your head and neck. Alternatively, you could use a travel blanket on the tray table and lean forward, using a pillow to support your head. This method can be a good option if you are an aisle seat passenger, as it allows you to rest without disturbing your seatmates.
While using the tray table as a pillow may not be the most luxurious way to sleep on a plane, it can be a practical solution when you're trying to get some rest during a flight without a neck pillow.
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Take melatonin, listen to music, read, or do crosswords
While it may seem obvious, the simplest way to fall asleep on a plane without a neck pillow is to just let sleep come to you. Take melatonin, get comfortable under your blanket, and put on your noise-cancelling headphones to listen to some music. You can also try reading or doing a crossword puzzle—anything quiet and relaxing that isn't a movie or TV show. If you're tired enough, you'll eventually fall asleep. However, if you make falling asleep your primary goal, you might find yourself stressing out about how much time is left until you land.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few ways to sleep on a plane without a neck pillow. Some travellers recommend leaning against the window or the side of the plane, using the tray table as a pillow, or using a travel blanket on the tray table and leaning forward.
If you don't want to use a neck pillow, you could try a travel blanket worn as a scarf, an eye mask, earplugs, or a small pillow between the window and your head to reduce vibration.
To improve your comfort, you could try an aisle seat with an inflatable pillow for better adjustability, or a window seat with a regular pillow for support. You could also try to tire yourself out before the flight, and avoid making falling asleep an active goal.
