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These Gadgets Will Help You Fall Asleep on Any Plane

By Bennett Kleinman
Read time: 4 minutes

Between turbulence, chatter from other passengers, and in-flight announcements, falling asleep on a plane can be difficult. But getting rest is critical, both to pass the time and to help prevent jet lag. If you’re one of the many flyers who struggle to fall asleep in the air, plenty of products are available that may be able to help. The gadgets below fit into any carry-on bag and are TSA-approved, so there should be no difficulties in getting them onboard. Here are seven gadgets that will help you fall asleep more easily on your next flight.

Loop Quiet Earplugs

Airplane passenger looking at cellphone
Credit: Milko/ E+ via Getty Images 

Noise-canceling headphones are a popular choice for flights, but they aren’t always the most relaxing option, as some people struggle to fall asleep while listening to music. These noise-reducing ear plugs from Loop help to limit cabin noise to a barely noticeable hum. The plugs are extra soft, come in a variety of sizes to comfortably fit any ear, and are hypoallergenic if you have sensitive skin. They’re also reusable and last for up to five years. Plus, the ear plugs still allow the tiniest bit of noise to come through, so you’ll be able to tell if there’s an important in-flight announcement being made.

Portable Sound Machine

Airplane passenger wearing noise-canceling headphones
Credit: urbazon/ E+ via Getty Images 

This portable white noise machine easily fits into any carry-on bag and contains a headphone jack, so you don’t have to worry about disturbing other passengers. The device is programmed with 25 relaxing sounds — including sea waves, campfire, and rain — and comes with 32 adjustable volume levels. It’s also battery-powered, so there’s no need to take up valuable outlet space. When you’re ready to sleep, just strap the attached rope around your wrist, set the auto-off timer for as long as you like, and allow yourself to be lulled to sleep.

Hanging Foot Hammock

Airplane passenger fastening seatbelt
Credit: urbazon/ E+ via Getty Images 

Long plane journeys often result in foot swelling and leg discomfort, but elevating your feet can improve circulation and prevent that. This foot hammock hangs off the tray table in front of you and provides a spot for you to rest the soles of your feet or your calves, depending on your leg length. It’s adjustable, easy to install, and won’t disturb the passenger in front of you. The hammock’s slight elevation cuts down on the risk of sore legs and an achy lower back during your flight, which should allow any traveler to fall asleep more comfortably.

Inflatable Travel Pillow

Airplane passenger sleeping with inflatable neck pillow
Credit: Beton studio/ iStock via Getty Images Plus 

This inflatable travel pillow is extremely compact when uninflated, so you can just tuck it into your carry-on when packing. Unlike standard neck pillows, this product features a unique hollow design that allows for smooth breathing and a space to rest your arms. You can place the pillow on the tray table in front of you and lean forward, or place it on your lap to rest your chin.

3D Sleep Mask

Airplane passenger wearing sleep mask
Credit: anouchka/ E+ via Getty Images 

Standard sleep masks often let too much light through, and often, the tight strap creates too much pressure for comfort. But that can be avoided with this luxurious 3D sleep mask made of plush memory foam. It’s easily adjustable and able to conform to any head shape. The mask fits tightly yet comfortably around your eyes, stopping any light from creeping in. Its design also features deep spaces around the eyes, preventing unwanted pressure from building.

2-in-1 Travel Pillow and Blanket

Airplane passenger wearing blanket and looking out window
Credit: Antonio Hugo Photo/ Moment via Getty Images 

Bringing both a pillow and blanket onboard can eat up valuable space in any carry-on, but you don’t have to worry with this 2-in-1 travel pillow and blanket. This product easily tucks into any bag, and it also has a built-in sleeve that you can strap around any suitcase handle while navigating through the airport. Once aboard, you can choose to use the product as a pillow and rest your head against the plush fabric. Or, unzip the pillow and remove a comfy blanket, which is large enough to provide warmth to you as well as any traveling companion.

Calming Pillow Spray

Passenger resting with neck pillow in airport terminal
Credit: mihailomilovanovic/ E+ via Getty Images 

Science has proved that pleasant odors can help people relax and fall asleep faster. This deep sleep pillow spray is an ideal product for helping you wake up feeling refreshed after a long plane journey. The solution contains hints of lavender, chamomile, and vetivert — all of which are said to encourage relaxation and promote deeper sleep. Just spray it onto your travel pillow or blanket and allow the pleasant odors to help you relax and doze off. Plus, the tube is just 2.5 fluid ounces, which is well below TSA’s 3.4-ounce limit for liquids.

Note: All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. Daily Passport may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

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