Best Hacks & Products For Sleeping On Long International Flights With Kids

A young girl sits on a plan in her JetKids by Stokke, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Rahul Singh

Parents planning a long-haul flight with kids in tow should definitely consider these best hacks or products for sleeping on long international flights with kids! We know the thought of taking a long international flight with your kids can be daunting. Between the time changes, unfamiliar surroundings, and new activities, getting everyone to settle down and sleep can be tough. But with a bit of preparation and the right attitude, it can be an adventure for the whole family! Fortunately, a few parent-tested hacks and products can help make sleeping on long international flights with kids easier. So whether you’re in the market for a new airplane bed, a stuffed animal, or simply want some tips, look no further. Here are the Best Hacks & Products For Sleeping On Long International Flights With Kids! 

Best Tips and Hacks for Sleeping on Long Flights with Kids

This article is chock-full of valuable tips for sleeping on long international flights with kids – from babies to teens. This first section will cover some of our favorite parent-tested and approved hacks for flying with kids. These tips were compiled from the advice of real parents who travel worldwide with their kids. Then, keep reading to discover the best products to help kids, teens, and parents sleep on long-haul flights.

READ NEXT: Use These 10 Tips For Your Baby’s First Flight

Book a Seat with an Airplane Bassinet

An infant boy snuggles with a blue blanket while sleeping in an on-board bassinet mid-flight.
Photo Courtesy: Monica Rojo

For families flying with a baby or a toddler under two years old, taking advantage of airplane bassinet seats is an amazing hack for sleeping on long international flights with kids. Bassinets are essentially small beds that attach to the bulkhead wall and offer a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep during the flight.

They come with a padded mattress and often have a privacy cover or canopy to block out light and noise. Most major airlines offer these seats, but they are often limited in quantity, so it’s important to pre-book with your airline ahead of time. It’ll give your baby a dedicated space to sleep that is separate from your own seat (and away from the often chaotic and noisy environment of an airplane cabin). 

Buy a Seat for Your Child

An infant girl suck her thumb while sitting in a carseat on a plane preparing to take off.
Photo Courtesy: Ashley Connell

Most airlines allow infants under 2 to fly for free as long as they sit on an adult’s lap. If you’re flying solo with your baby, this freebie is a great way to save money. However, if you’re flying with your partner or another adult, buying a seat for your baby may be worth it. Why? Some parents find sleeping easier when their baby has their own seat.

Knowing that your infant is buckled into their car seat and not moving around the cabin during turbulence can be comforting. It also allows you to use an infant car seat on the plane, making feeding and changing diapers much easier (not to mention more comfortable for you and your baby). Book early if you decide to buy a seat for your baby to make sleeping on long international flights with kids a tad easier.

Looking for more travel gifts? Read The Ultimate Guide To The Best Family Travel Gifts 2022-2023

Upgrade Your Seat to Business or First-Class with Points

An infant looks at the in-flight safety manual.
Photo Courtesy: Emily Apodaca

Families looking for a little more luxury on their next long international flight with kids can upgrade their seats to business or first class. This is a great way to get a little more space and comfort, making the flight much more enjoyable for everyone.

While this may not be in your budget normally, if you’re a frequent flyer, you may be able to upgrade your seat using points. ​Of course, upgrading your seat will likely cost more points than simply booking an economy seat. It’s important to note that you’ll need to book your seat early as these upgrades tend to fill up fast. For more information on reward points for families, check out these tips for booking vacations with points

Podcasts or Audiobooks

Baby with purple headphones graphic.

If you’re looking for a way to help your kids relax and fall asleep on long-haul flights, consider downloading some kid-friendly podcasts or audiobooks. There are tons of great podcasts and audiobooks out there that are specifically designed to help kids relax and fall asleep.

You can often find them for free on iTunes or other online retailers. Just do a search for “sleep” or “relaxation,” and you’ll see plenty of wonderful choices. There are also a lot of books your kids may already love and be familiar with on services such as Audible.

Alternatively, if your child prefers to listen to music or other audio content, there are also many kid-friendly podcasts. Some popular options for young kids include Mrs. Honeybee and Friends, But Why: A Curious Podcast For Kids, and Goodnight, World! Whichever option you choose, having a podcast or an audiobook ready to go can make sleeping on long international flights with kids just a tad easier for everyone.

Looking for the perfect travel headphones? Try Puro Sound Labs for highly rated kids headphones!

Melatonin for Kids – Is it Safe?

The wing of a Delta airplane extends into the sky.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

If you’re planning a family vacation and need tips for sleeping on long international flights with kids, you’re probably wondering: is melatonin safe for kids? The use of melatonin for kids has become a controversial topic in recent years. While some parents swear by it, others are reluctant to give it a try.

In short, yes! Melatonin is generally considered safe for kids when used as directed. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to understand what melatonin is and how it works. Melatonin is a hormone our body naturally produces to help regulate sleep and wake cycles. Some kids have difficulty falling asleep because their bodies don’t produce enough melatonin. That’s where over-the-counter supplements come in. Giving your child melatonin can help them fall asleep and stay asleep through the night – and on long-haul flights! 

Of course, before giving your child any supplement, it’s always best to speak with your pediatrician first. They can help you determine if melatonin suits your child and what dosage to give based on age and weight. To buy online, some popular Melatonin brands for kids include Olly or Vicks Pure Zzzs.

Traveling with kids who have allergies? Read these Tips For Traveling With Children Who Have Allergies

More Tips and Hacks for Sleeping on Long Flights with Kids

Little boy sleeping with a stuffy in the plane, having a stuffy can help with sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Tram Dao

If you’re a parent traveling with young children, you know how difficult it can be to get everyone settled and comfortable for a long flight. Here are some helpful long-haul flights tips and tricks for getting everyone to sleep! 

Tips to Help Encourage Sleep when Flying with Kids: BEFORE YOU GO

  • Use these Travel Resources for Families to make the planning process more manageable. Low-stress planning can make for an easier and less stressful flight!
  • Invest in products that help encourage sleeping on the plane. We’ve listed a variety of great options in the following two sections, for everyone from babies to teens and adults.
  • Dress yourself and your children in comfortable clothing that will not restrict movement, including shoes you can easily slip on and off. Then, putting kids in their pajamas before you board can be a great way to encourage rest and sleep!

Tips to Help Encourage Sleep when Flying with Kids: DURING THE FLIGHT

  • On board, create something that resembles their bedtime routine, especially when flying with a toddler. Have their favorite stuffy and blanket ready, read books together, and snuggle – whatever you can to create an environment prepared for sleep.
  • Planes can fluctuate in temperature, dress in breathable layers to help you keep warm or cool.
  • Have a cozy blanket and a pillow. This can help make the seat more comfortable and provide extra warmth. Making yourself as comfortable as possible will also help you drift off to sleep.
  • Take advantage of the in-flight entertainment system. If your child is old enough, let them choose a movie or show to watch on the plane. This way, they’ll be occupied (hopefully sleepy) during the flight.
  • Get up and walk around regularly. This is especially important if you’re sitting in economy class where legroom is limited. Getting up and stretching your legs every few hours will help keep you from getting too stiff and uncomfortable during the flight.
  • Try to relax as much as possible before trying to sleep. For adults, this means avoiding caffeine and alcohol and focusing on deep breathing exercises or calming music. Once you are relaxed, it’ll be easier for everyone to fall asleep.

Best Travel Products to Help Babies, Toddlers, and Young Kids Sleep on a Long Flight

Planning a family vacation and seeking tips for sleeping during a long international flight with kids? Whether flying with a baby or a toddler, or an older child, there are a few different ways parents can ensure their kids are comfortable when sleeping on long international flights. Some parents opt for unique products like neck pillows or airplane cots, while others bring their child’s favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

Before making a purchase, we highly recommend that you ensure the product is allowed on the airline you are flying with. Some airlines allow (or prohibit) some products, while for others, it may be up to the discretion of the flight crew. Keep reading for more products and simple hacks to help babies, toddlers, and young sleep soundly on even the longest flights (see suggestions for teens and parents in the next section)! 

Stuffed Animals

A product shot of the purple Tranquil Turtle, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Tranquil Turtle

One of the best ways to keep kids entertained (and hopefully asleep) during a long international flight is to bring along their favorite stuffed animal. This will be their best friend during the trip and can be used to help them sleep in strange surroundings. If your child is particularly attached to their stuffed animal, it might be a good idea to let them choose which one they want to bring along on the trip.

Or, you could consider surprising them with a new one, particularly one designed to facilitate sleep. One popular option for kids is the Tranquil Turtle, a soft and cuddly turtle that projects a calming underwater light show onto the ceiling. This can help kids relax and fall asleep quickly. Other similar products include the WOW! PODS Cocomelon Plush and the Apunol Baby Sleep Soother. Either way, this is a great option for flying with a toddler or young child.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Cloud B Tranquil Turtle is available on Amazon, starting at $59.99. Buy now
  • The WOW! PODS Cocomelon Plush is available on Amazon, starting at $27. Buy now
  • The Apunol Baby Sleep Soother is available on Amazon, starting at $31.99. Buy now

Plane Pal

A product shot of the Plane Pal, an airplane seat extender with pump.
Photo Courtesy: Plane Pal

There’s nothing worse than being crammed into a small space with a tired, cranky child. Wondering how to survive long flights in economy class? If your little one is prone to fidgeting or doesn’t sleep well on planes, consider investing in a “plane pal“. This inflatable cushion fills the space between your child’s seat and the seat in front, giving them a comfortable place to doze off during your flight.

It’s specifically designed for young children and has a built-in inflation pump, so you don’t have to worry about blowing it up. It’s also super soft and cuddly, so your little one will feel right at home snuggling up with it on the plane! Some parents complain it takes up too much space, though it’s more lightweight than other travel beds for kids. 

While it may be tempting to buy a similar and cheaper model from Amazon, we advise against this, since Plane Pal has been safety tested and deemed safe for onboard use. Though not every airline officially approves it, families often have no problems traveling with it. Some airlines that officially approve it include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic. 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Plane Pal is available from Keep Me Quiet, starting at $111. Buy now

Car Seat

One of the best ways to get some rest on a long flight is to bring your child’s car seat along and strap them into something they already find comforting. This way, they can sleep soundly in their own seat without disturbing you or other passengers. It also provides a safe and familiar place for them to fall asleep and feel closer to home.

If you’re traveling with an infant, you may prefer to bring along a travel bassinet so they can sleep comfortably in your lap. However, children old enough to sit in their own seats on an airplane can use a regular car seat. With that said, be sure to check with the airline beforehand to see if they have any restrictions on car seats. Then, check your car seat’s side sticker to ensure it is FAA-approved. Most car seats available in the U.S. are FAA-approved. Some lightweight and travel-friendly car seats include the Graco Slimfit 3, the Diono Radian 3R, and the Cosco Finale DX2

Wondering if bringing a car seat is right for your family when flying with kids? Review these 5 Questions to Help You Decide Whether or Not to Bring a Car Seat.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Graco Slimfit 3 is available on Amazon, starting at $219. Buy now
  • The Diono Radian 3R is available on Amazon, starting at $199.98. Buy now. 
  • The ​​Cosco Finale DX2 is available on Amazon, starting at $69.99. Buy now.

READ NEXT: 5 Questions to Help You Decide Whether or Not to Bring a Car Seat

Hammock

Assuming you don’t have the budget for a first-class seat with a bed, there are still ways to make your long-haul or international flight with kids more comfortable. One way is to bring a hammock! Hammocks take up very little space in your carry-on and can be hung over the armrests of two seats or your tray table, creating a makeshift bed and seat extender. This is ideal if you’re traveling with kids who want to stay comfortable or have space for all their toys and belongings. One popular option for both kids and adults is the Fly Legs Up Hammock, which is compact and creates a flat surface to sleep, eat, and play. 

For even more support, consider a foot hammock as well. Not only will a foot hammock help keep your feet comfortable, but it will also elevate them slightly, which can help reduce swelling during long flights. Plus, for travelers who are a bit fidgety, you can take advantage of the extra space and avoid the cramps and stiffness that come from sitting in one position for hours on end. Families love the compact Air Cot, which allows kids plenty of room to stretch their legs and relax. These are all great products for families wondering how to survive long flights in economy class! 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Fly Legs Up Hammock is available directly from Fly Legs Up, starting at $69.99. Buy now.
  • The Air Cot is available from Fly Air Cot, starting at $44.99. Buy now
  • The Andyer Portable Footrest is available on Amazon, starting at $12.99. Buy now.

Sunveno Easy-to-Go™ Baby Portable Travel Bassinet 

If you’re looking for a travel bassinet to make sleeping on long international flights with kids more manageable, the Sunveno Easy-to-Go™ Baby Portable Travel Bassinet is a great option. This portable bassinet is designed for infants and toddlers up to 3 years old and features a comfortable, breathable mattress. Plus, a sturdy frame that can be easily assembled and disassembled for transport.

Babies who move around often in their sleep will benefit from the rigid wall design to keep them in place. It also comes in three cute colors! Most airlines allow this kind of travel bassinet, as long as you don’t use it during take-off or landing.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Sunveno Easy-to-Go™ Baby Portable Travel Bassinet is available from Blue Bird Baby, starting at $69.99. Buy now

Flyaway Kids Bed 

A product shot of a young boy sleeping with his teddy on a Flyaway Kids Bed.
Photo Courtesy: Fly Away Designs 

If you’re flying with your family, the last thing you want is for them to be restless. While sleeping on a long international flight with kids can be challenging, the Flyaway Kids Bed aims to make it easier for everyone! This inflatable bed quickly inflates and deflates, providing a soft space for kids to lay out and sleep on. It’s best for long-haul flights with small kids and allows them to take a nap whenever they want, plus they can sit up and play too. Its innovative design prevents your child’s toys and belongings from rolling on the floor. The Flyaway Kids Bed comes with an easy-to-use pump and also a carrying case, making it ideal for traveling families. 

Like other airplane beds, the Flyaway Kids Bed isn’t officially approved by airlines such as Jetblue or Alaska Airlines. However, it’s usually up to the discretion of the flight crew. A few airlines, like TAP Air Portugal, do officially approve it. If allowed, this is a great option when flying with a toddler.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Flyaway Kids Bed is available directly from Fly Away Designs, starting at $159. Buy now

Little Passengers TravelSnug

Two kids sit side by side demonstrating their TravelSnugs, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: TravelSnug

Traveling with babies or toddlers on long-haul flights? One of the last things you want on an international flight is for kids to be uncomfortable, which is where the Little Passengers TravelSnug comes in! This cute carry-on cushion fits precisely into airplane seats, providing a soft surface for kids to sleep and sit on. It’s available in two different sizes to grow with your kids, too, with size one for twelve months to four years old and size two for four years old to seven or eight years old.

Available in various colors and patterns, it also includes straps to keep your little ones secure, instantly turning a bigger airplane seat into a smaller kid-sized one. It also has an adorable matching fleece blanket kids can snuggle with and a hand-carry strap! 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Little Passengers TravelSnug is available directly from TravelSnug, starting at $73.50. Buy now.

Be sure to pack these Best Travel Accessories Families Can’t Live Without

Jetkids by STOKKE Bedbox

If you’re looking for a way to keep your kids comfortable (and entertained) on long international flights, look no further than the Jetkids by STOKKE Bedbox. This piece of luggage doubles as a bed and a ride-on toy, making it the perfect travel companion for your little ones. The Bedbox has an inflatable mattress and pillow, so your child can sleep soundly during the flight. And when they’re not sleeping, they can use the Bedbox as a ride-on toy to explore the airport. There’s also plenty of storage space inside the Bedbox for all of your child’s favorite toys and snacks. 

This accessory is recommended for kids two and up if you’re using the sleeping feature and for kids between three and seven years old for the ride-on feature. Then, keep in mind that not all airlines approve of the Jetkids Bedbox. Some have policies against it, while others have no official policy, leaving it up to the discretion of your particular flight. Some airlines that officially approve the Jetkids Bedbox include American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and Air Japan. 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Jetkids by STOKKE Bedbox is available directly from Jetkids by STOKKE, starting at $229. Buy now

Inflatable Foot Rest or Cushion

Product shot of a Koala Kloud Travel Foot Rest, blown up and within its carrying case.
Photo Courtesy: Koala Kloud

Inflatable footrests are a fantastic invention for anyone who travels frequently, and they are an essential item for long international flights with kids! These handy accessories provide little ones with extra legroom on your flight and prevent soreness in cramped quarters.

If you’re looking for a specific option when flying with kids, the Koala Kloud Travel Foot Rest is one of the best on the market, and is highly recommended by parents. This inflatable footrest attaches to the seat in front of your child and gives them a place to rest their feet. It also has a built-in pillow for them to lean on to sleep more comfortably. Plus, it’s easily inflatable and adjustable to three different heights. Best of all, it comes with its travel bag, so you can easily take it on the go! 

Another fantastic option is the Flytot, an inflatable cushion, and footrest. It can turn an economy seat into a much roomier space; kids can recline back and use it to sleep! While neither of these is technically banned on airlines, your experience will depend on the discretion of your flight crew. Make sure to snag a window seat as well! 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Kids Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Koala Kloud Travel Foot Rest is available on Amazon, starting at $21.97. Buy now
  • The Fly Tot is available from Fly Tot, starting at $99. Buy now

Best Travel Products for Teens and Adults on a Long Flight

Parents looking for ways to make sleeping on long international flights easier for teens or themselves have come to the right place! With ​a bit of research and preparation, it doesn’t have to be a struggle to enjoy a smooth flight with your older kids and teens. All you need are these long-haul flights tips and tricks, from noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to comfortable travel pillows and blankets. And, of course, matter who you’re traveling with, make sure to stay hydrated and pack plenty of snacks. Here are some specific product suggestions for teens and parents who need help sleeping on long international flights! 

Travel Pillows

A sleeping woman uses the BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow on a flight, this is one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: BCOZZY

​​There’s nothing quite like being jolted awake by a head lolling forward, hitting the armrest with a thud. It’s even worse when it happens to your kiddo. To avoid this highly unpleasant experience (trust us, we’ve been there), bring along a small travel pillow for each person. When choosing the best travel pillow for long flights, you’ll want one that’s comfortable enough to support your head and neck. Plus, you’ll need a lightweight pillow that’s easy to carry and pack.

Between inflatable, memory foam, and some filled with beads, there are many options on the market. Memory foam pillows are a fantastic choice for long flights because they conform to your body and provide good support. While they may not be as comfortable as memory foam pillows, inflatable pillows are easier to carry around and pack. 

Looking for more specific travel pillow recommendations? Here are some excellent options from our Families Who Love to Travel Facebook community, suggested and tested by real parents who travel with their kids! 

  • Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow features a unique ergonomic design that contours to your neck and head, providing optimum support and preventing any discomfort. Attach it to any headrest, and it’ll hold throughout the flight. It’s also super lightweight and comes with its own carry case, so it’s easy to pack and take with you on the go.
  • Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow is another fantastic option for families who want something lightweight. It’s comfortable and supportive and can be inflated or deflated to your desired level of firmness. Don’t forget about the convenient carrying case!
  • The Ultimate Travel Pillow ® is an inflatable travel pillow with a unique long shape. It attaches to your airline seat for the ultimate comfort, or you can wear it as a “messenger bag.” Though it’s a bit bulkier than other travel pillows, this also makes it super cozy to nuzzle against during a flight. 
  • BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow is ideal for teens and adults who find their heads slipping while sleeping upright. This comfortable pillow has a unique design that supports your head, chin, and neck, making it more comfortable to sleep and wake up refreshed. It’s also adjustable and machine-washable! 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is available on Amazon, starting at $39.99. Buy now.
  • The Sunany Inflatable Neck Pillow is available on Amazon, starting at $23.99. Buy now
  • The Ultimate Travel Pillow ® is available on Amazon, starting at $29.95. Buy now
  • The BCOZZY Chin Supporting Travel Pillow is available on Amazon, starting at $39.97. Buy now

Eye Masks

Product shot of a gray Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Mavogel

You can do a few things to make sleeping on long international flights more comfortable for parents and teens. For adults who want to look and feel refreshed, make sure to invest in a good eye mask. Eye masks can help to block out the bright lights on airplanes. They can also help to reduce noise levels, making it easier to fall asleep.

There are a variety of different eye masks on the market, so it’s important to choose a comfortable one that will stay in place during the flight. Depending on your sleeping position, you may want to consider an eye mask with a contoured shape. You can also find eye masks with an adjustable strap for a custom fit. We recommend the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask, made from soft fabric and even comes with a travel pouch. 

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask is available on Amazon, starting at $9.99. Buy now. 

Blankets or a Blanket Scarf

A couple is wrapped in a large blanket scarf with a waterfall and wooded area in the background.
Photo Courtesy: Chad Madden

When planning a long international flight with kids or teens, one of the best things you can do is ensure everyone is comfortable. And what better way to do that than with a cozy blanket? Even if you’re not traveling to a cold destination, it’ll come in handy in chilly airports, airplanes, and other places throughout your trip!

If you’re traveling with infants or small children, bringing along a few receiving blankets is also a good idea. Besides keeping warm, you can also use blankets for nursing and provide a soft surface for your child to nap on.

For something a bit more versatile for teens and parents, you can also bring a blanket scarf, or an oversized scarf. You can use it as a makeshift pillow to sleep during your flight, an extra blanket to keep you warm at night, or as an actual wrap-around scarf!

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Amazon Essentials Blanket Scarf is available on Amazon, starting at $10.90. Buy now

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Bose headphone and accessories, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Bose Store via Amazon

There are a few things that can make sleeping on long international flights more bearable. One is to have a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. This will help block out the engine noise and any other sounds that might be trying to keep you awake. And if you’re traveling with kids, they can be a lifesaver for napping during the flight for all ages. Indeed, they are among the best things to pack for sleeping on long international flights with kids.

Many different types and brands of noise-canceling headphones are available (from infants to teens and adults), so choosing one that’s comfortable and will work well for you is important. Some things to consider include the ear cups’ size and shape, the noise cancellation level, and the battery life. You may also want to consider headphones with volume-limiting features to protect your hearing. We recommend reputable companies like Purosound and Bose. You can also find various options for all ages (infants to teens) by reading The Best Headphones for Kids of All Ages.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here:

  • The Purosound PuroQuiet Headphones are available on Amazon, starting at $129. Buy now.
  • The Bose QuietComfort 25 Headphones are available on Amazon, starting at $249. Buy now.

READ NEXT: The Best Headphones for Kids of All Ages.

Earplugs

A product shot of the green Howard Leight Max Lite Earplugs, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Kaz via Amazon

As a parent, you know that a good night’s sleep is important for your health and well-being. One way to make sure you can get some shut-eye on your next long flight is to invest in a good pair of earplugs!

A few important things to consider when choosing earplugs for sleeping on long flights with kids. First, you’ll want to ensure they’re comfortable enough to wear for hours. You should also look for earplugs that will block out noise without shutting out all sound. This way, you’ll still be able to hear your child if they need you. Also, look for earplugs that are easy to use, so you don’t struggle to put them in your ears.

While many different earplugs are on the market, not all are created equal. We recommend the Howard Leight Max Lite Earplugs, made from comfortable soft foam. They also have a high noise-reduction rating.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here: 

  • The Howard Leight Max Lite Earplugs are available on Amazon, starting at $29.70. Buy now. 

Melatonin

A product shot of Nature’s Bounty Melatonin Tablets.
Photo Courtesy: Nature’s Bounty

A few things can make or break a long international flight with kids and teens – one of which is sleep. If your little ones easily fall asleep, but you often find yourself awake, you can try packing some melatonin to ease your transition into dreamland. These supplements often help people who have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

There’s also some evidence that melatonin may be effective in helping people with jet lag. Start by taking it a few days before your flight so your body can get used to it, and then retake it before you board the plane. It’s important to start with a low dose of melatonin and increase it gradually if needed. A few reputable companies include Zzzquil, Nature Made, and Nature’s Bounty. Before providing melatonin to your teens, consult their medical team for advice.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here: 

  • Zzzquil Triple Action Melatonin Gummies are available on Amazon, starting at $14.95. Buy now
  • Nature Made Melatonin Tablets are available on Amazon, starting at $7.81. Buy now
  • Nature’s Bounty Melatonin Tablets are available on Amazon, starting at $7.74. Buy now. 

Sleep Spray

Product shot of three bottles of Combat Cleaner Pillow Sleep Mist.
Photo Courtesy: Combat Cleaner

Parents who find themselves struggling to sleep on a long international flight can pack sleep spray. There are several different sleep sprays on the market, but they all work in basically the same way: you mist the spray onto your pillow or blanket, and it helps you relax and fall asleep.

Some of the ingredients in these sprays include lavender and chamomile, known for their calming effects. Many sleep sprays need to be used thirty minutes before bedtime to be effective. You’ll feel sleepy and ready to drift off into dreamland in no time. And when you wake up refreshed and well-rested, you’ll be glad you took our advice! Amazon sells pillow spray for deep sleep

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here: 

  • Combat Cleaner Pillow Sleep Mist is available on Amazon, starting at $15.98. Buy now. 
  • This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray is available on Amazon, starting at $30. Buy now

Compression Socks

A product shot of six colorful compression socks, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Bluemaple

Compression socks are a must for any parent traveling with young kids on a flight! On an airplane, the change in cabin pressure can cause pain and swelling in your legs and feet, so compression socks can help keep you comfortable (and hopefully asleep!) during the flight. Not only do they help to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), but these socks are also designed to help improve circulation, which can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed on a long flight.

Plus, they’re great for helping you keep your feet warm in those chilly airplane cabins! Make sure you pair them with shoes that are easy to put on and take off to make the process even simpler. If you’re looking for recommendations, Amazon sells numerous compression socks, including a cute colored set.

Make Your Parent-Approved Purchase to Help Teens and Parents Sleep on a Long Flight Here: 

  • The Bluemaple Compression Socks For Women and Men are available on Amazon, starting at $19.99. Buy now.
  • The Aoliks Compression Socks For Women and Men are available on Amazon, starting at $9.99. Buy now.

Sleep Bra

A woman looks out the plane window during her flight, one of the best products for sleeping on long international flights.
Photo Courtesy: Adrienn

A reliable sleep bra is essential for any mom who wants to get a good night’s sleep on a long international flight! This is basically just a comfortable, supportive bra that can help you stay cozy. It’ll also provide some structure and support, so you don’t wake up sore after sleeping.

A few things to remember when choosing a sleep bra: make sure it’s comfortable, has good support, and is easy to put on and take off. You may also want to consider a bra with built-in nursing features, if you plan on breastfeeding during the flight. If you’re not used to sleeping in a bra, it may take some time to get used to it. To help ease the transition, we suggest these casual options from Amazon. 

Make Your Mom-Approved Purchase to Help Sleep on a Long Flight Here: 

  • The Alyce Intimates Sleep & Lounge Bra is available on Amazon, starting at $24.99. Buy now.
  • The KCDDUMK 4 Pieces Cami Bras are available on Amazon, starting at $23.88. Buy now.

Click here for Great Tips For Taking a Family Vacation On A Budget

Happy Travels!

A young boy raises his hand to turn on the light inside an airplane cabin.
Photo Courtesy: Steven Thompson

We hope you found helpful information in this article outlining the Best Hacks (Or Products) For Sleeping On Long International Flights With Kids! While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to sleep on long international flights, a few hacks and products can help make the process a bit easier. Enjoy your next family vacation! 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of this list’s attractions, accommodations, or things to do may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.