If you’ve ever tried sleeping on a plane, you know it’s a skill that requires equal parts flexibility, determination, and perhaps a complete lack of shame. Planes aren’t exactly designed with comfort in mind—especially when you’re seated in economy, sandwiched between the armrest hogger and the person who thinks reclining to the max is their birthright. But fear not, weary traveler! We’re here to help you master the fine art of airplane sleeping. Let’s dive into some hilarious yet practical tips for catching some shut-eye at 30,000 feet.

1. The Window Wedge: Your Best Friend

Ah, the window seat—the sacred refuge for those seeking sleep. If you’re lucky enough to score this coveted spot, you’re already halfway to dreamland. But beware! You still need to navigate the art of the window wedge.

Pro Tip: Lean against the window, ideally with something soft (your jacket, scarf, or—let’s be honest—the inflight magazine if you’re desperate). This will prevent you from looking like a bobblehead every time the plane hits a bit of turbulence. Just be sure to wipe the drool off the window before landing; it’s a matter of common courtesy.

2. The Tray Table Pillow: A Risky Move

For those stuck in the middle or aisle seats, your options for head support shrink dramatically. Enter the tray table pillow: lower that tray table and attempt to use it as a makeshift desk for your forehead.

Pro Tip: Bring an actual pillow (or a creative substitute) to place between your head and the tray to avoid walking off the plane with a tray-shaped imprint on your face. Warning: Sudden turbulence might lead to a smashed nose situation—be prepared.

3. The Neck Pillow Conundrum

Let’s address the elephant in the cabin—the neck pillow. In theory, it’s the perfect travel companion. In reality, it’s either too firm, too soft, or inexplicably uncomfortable after 10 minutes of use.

Pro Tip: Wear your neck pillow backward. That’s right—backward! This way, your head is cushioned from flopping forward like a sleepy toddler. It looks ridiculous but is surprisingly effective. Plus, when you’re that tired, fashion doesn’t matter.

4. The Armrest Battle: Outwit, Outlast, Outdoze

If you’re in the middle seat, you’re familiar with the eternal struggle for armrest supremacy. Sleeping in this position is not just about comfort—it’s about survival.

Pro Tip: Don’t be shy. Start with the “fake stretch” maneuver and casually rest your elbow on the armrest before your seatmate even realizes the battle has begun. Once your arm is firmly planted, maintain dominance through strategic micro-adjustments. It’s like a game of chess but with elbows.

5. The Footrest Fantasy

If you’re flying in economy, legroom is as mythical as Bigfoot. However, there’s a sneaky way to create your own footrest: using your carry-on bag.

Pro Tip: Place your backpack or suitcase under the seat in front of you, then prop your feet on top. While not luxurious, it adds a slight elevation that makes it feel like you’re lounging at the spa… if the spa were crammed with 150 other people, serving pretzels instead of cucumber water.

6. The “I’m Totally Comfortable” Lean

This classic maneuver involves tilting slightly to one side—just enough to give the illusion that you’ve found comfort—while attempting not to invade your neighbor’s personal space.

Pro Tip: Use your jacket or sweater to create a padded buffer between you and the armrest or window. This helps you avoid the dreaded shoulder cramp or, worse, waking up to find you’ve fallen asleep on the stranger next to you. Unless you’re into that kind of thing (spoiler: they’re probably not).

7. Noise-Canceling Headphones: The Golden Ticket

No matter how contorted your body is, the true path to peace on a plane is silencing the world around you. Babies crying, the constant hum of the engine, and the flight attendants’ snack cart symphony can all sabotage your slumber.

Pro Tip: Invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones or, if you’re on a budget, foam earplugs. Combine them with some white noise or a soothing playlist, and you might just trick yourself into thinking you’re in a quiet corner of paradise—until the snack cart hits your elbow, of course.

8. The Blanket Burrito

When the cabin temperature dips into the Arctic zone, it’s time to employ the blanket burrito strategy. Whether it’s the scratchy, static-charged airline blanket or your own travel throw, it’s your best defense against freezing mid-flight.

Pro Tip: Wrap yourself tightly in the blanket (like a burrito!), leaving only your face exposed. This not only keeps you warm but also gives you a legitimate excuse to avoid small talk with Chatty Cathy in seat 16B.

9. The “Too Close for Comfort” Aisle Lean

For aisle dwellers, sleeping is like a game of human Tetris. You lean into the aisle, only to be jolted awake by the beverage cart or a fellow passenger’s hip.

Pro Tip: Lean slightly toward the aisle but not too far. Use your hand or elbow to feel out how much space you have before the snack cart comes around. It’s all about finding the sweet spot where you can doze without becoming a speed bump for the flight attendants.

Conclusion: No Shame, Just Sleep

Let’s be honest—sleeping on a plane is never glamorous, but with the right tricks, it can be slightly less torturous. The key is finding a position that works for you and committing to it with no shame. Whether you’re tray-tabling it, leaning at a weird angle, or swaddled in a blanket like a newborn, just remember: everyone else on that plane is probably just as uncomfortable as you.

Happy napping, fellow traveler!