Sleeping on long flights - What's the secret?

Rob McDonald wrote:

Seats at bulkheads and emergency exits usually have a little more leg
room, sometimes if you get to the airport early you can request one of
these seats.

It pays to arrive early.

I have rarely *not* got a seat behind the overwing exit. One of the best
places to be able to stretch your legs.


I go out of my way to be polite and cheerful when making
these requests... I have eccasionally been offered a free upgrade to
business class - that makes a big difference on a 7-1/2 hr flight!

I made a fuss once about being 'bumped'. All 6 of us got upgraded. 5 in
business and 1 in first ( since he was feeling unwell ).

And yes - it makes a difference !

Don't take any **** - but equally don't over-do it. Ask to to speak to the
station manager.

Kinda - be firm but reasonable if bumped.


I do six to eight hour flights several times each year. I can rarely
sleep if it's a day flight,though I would like to, Whenever possible I
take a late departure arriving in the morning. A glass of wine with
dinner, a blanket & blindfold and I always sleep on the night flights.

Night flights are easier - the cabin crew *want* you to sleep ! Don't
refuse the blanket - you'll need it as they reduce the cabin temp !


The suggestion by another poster to see your doctor for a mild sedative
is a good one. I have also found that cold medications and anti nausea
medications usually put me to sleep.

Sounds like you found some sedative meds.

Some docs may prescribe you diazepam ( valium ) or the like. Depends how
they feel abour prescribing such stuff. You may have a better bet of
getting prescribed if you suggest you're afraid of flying.

Since I feel fine flying - I just sleep anyway ( but it takes time to get
used to doing it on a plane ) . Modest alcohol intake may help.


Graham