Peak travel season is around the corner, and many Britons are booking flights for their long-awaited holidays, so one expert is raising awareness on the best tricks to get some sleep on a flight. While some may believe that sleep on a plane is an elusive luxury, sleep expert and CEO of MattressNextDay, Martin Seeley, claims his tips can help holidaymakers drift off with ease.

One surprising piece of advice from Martin is that where you sit on the plane can significantly impact your quality of sleep. “Booking a seat above the engine can actually lead to better quality sleep,” he said. “The gentle, consistent hum can act as a sort of white noise, helping to lull you into a peaceful slumber. This concept is similar to how some people use white noise machines at home to improve sleep quality.”

Not only does the noise play a part, but the vibrations from the engine can also create a soothing environment.

It’s also got a bonus for those prone to flight anxiety, as Martin explained that “seats above the engine often experience less turbulence, which can be a bonus for those who get anxious during flights.”

Another key tip involves preparing for the flight with a well-thought-out sleep kit, as they have been shown to reduce the number of times you’re woken up during a flight.

“Previous studies confirm that flight socks can halve the number of times you’re woken up on a plane,” he explained.

The kit should also feature an eye mask to block out cabin lights and a memory foam travel pillow to support your neck and head, preventing discomfort upon waking.

When it comes to sleep essentials, Martin also warned travellers about the potential downsides of wireless earphones. While they may be small and convenient, they might not provide the best conditions for rest.

“Noise-cancelling headphones are particularly effective in environments with high background noise,” he said, highlighting the importance of blocking out distractions with wired headphones.

“With wired headphones, you don’t have to worry about them running out of battery mid-flight.”

Other tips include adjusting your body’s internal clock before you even take off by setting your watch to your destination’s time.

Martin added: “This simple act can help your body’s circadian rhythm – your internal sleep-wake cycle – start adjusting to the new time zone.”

This minor shift can help minimise jet lag, allowing you to sleep more comfortably and adapt quicker to the new time zone.