Traveling by plane can be exciting, but getting proper sleep during a flight is often challenging. Whether it’s a long-haul or red-eye, trying to fall asleep in cramped seats or noisy environments can feel almost impossible. The good news is that there are sleep aids designed to make flying more comfortable and help you get the rest you need. From travel pillows to natural supplements, we’ll walk you through some of the best sleep aids to ensure you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.
Important Notice: Please consult a doctor if you have any medical conditions. We do not provide medical advice or make claims, and we are not liable for individual health outcomes.
Ozlo Sleepbuds®
Buy Ozlo Sleepbuds® and enjoy an amazingly restful and calm sleep tonight!
What are Ozlo Sleepbuds?
Ozlo is a science-driven, one-stop-shop for the best sleep of your life. Unlike other headphones and earbuds, our tiny Sleepbuds® are engineered to be super comfy, even for side sleepers, while blocking out sleep-disrupting sounds.
Sleepbuds® play audio for up to ten hours, letting you enjoy our noise-masking tracks or stream anything you like, including audiobooks, podcasts, white noise, and YouTube.
The Ozlo Difference
At Ozlo, we're dedicated to helping you achieve the best sleep possible through innovative audio solutions. Our company, founded by three former Bose engineers, focuses on creating products that not only help you fall asleep, but stay asleep throughout the night.
Ozlo Sleepbuds® simply don’t feel like other earbuds. Sleepbuds stay in place even when you toss and turn. The tiny earbuds, with their comfortable silicone tips and anchor-in-place wings, are designed for all-night comfort, no matter your sleeping position. Sleep on your back, side, or whatever works for you, and Ozlo Sleepbuds® will remain in place throughout the night.
Key Highlights
- Founded by three former Bose engineers with extensive experience in audio tech
- Sleepbuds® actively mask unwanted sounds like snoring, traffic, and environmental noises with calming, science-backed audio.
- Ultra-soft silicone tips designed to support every sleeping position, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
- Up to 10 hours of continuous use with extra charges from the Smart Case.
- Built-in biometric and environmental sensors offering personalized sleep reports
- Personal alarm gently wakes you without disturbing your partner
1. ZzzQuil
ZzzQuil is a sleep aid product designed for people who experience occasional sleeplessness. Developed by Vicks, this product contains Diphenhydramine HCI, a non-habit-forming ingredient that helps users fall asleep within 20 minutes. Available in LiquiCaps form, ZzzQuil is suitable for adults and children, and it supports sound sleep for those who struggle with difficulty falling asleep during air travel or other disruptions to their routine. Each dose consists of two capsules, with 50mg of Diphenhydramine HCI, which blocks histamine signals to help induce drowsiness.
The product is unflavored and comes in a compact, easy-to-carry form, making it a convenient option for travelers. ZzzQuil aims to provide a restful night’s sleep without the risk of dependency. It’s specifically tailored for those seeking quick relief from occasional sleeplessness, whether on a long flight or in an unfamiliar environment. ZzzQuil is available in various forms, including capsules and liquid solutions.
Key Highlights:
- Contains 25mg of Diphenhydramine HCI per capsule
- Non-habit forming sleep aid
- Suitable for adults and children
- Helps users fall asleep within 20 minutes
- Available in LiquiCaps form for ease of use
- Pack includes 72 capsules for multiple uses
Who it’s best for:
- People experiencing occasional sleeplessness
- Travelers looking for a fast-acting sleep aid
- Adults and children who need help falling asleep on planes
- Individuals seeking a non-habit-forming sleep solution
2. Welmate Sleep Aid
Welmate offers a sleep aid containing Doxylamine Succinate, a compound known for helping with occasional sleeplessness. Each tablet contains 25mg of this ingredient and is designed to provide relief from issues like stress-induced insomnia. This product is available in tablet form, with each bottle containing 200 units. It’s intended for adults and can help with managing cold and allergy-related symptoms as well.
Welmate’s sleep aid is described as non-habit forming and is often compared to similar over-the-counter sleep aids. This product is suitable for use at home or while traveling, particularly for those dealing with jet lag or adjusting to new time zones. One tablet taken 30 minutes before bedtime is suggested to help users fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more refreshed, without the grogginess sometimes associated with other sleep aids.
Key Highlights:
- Contains Doxylamine Succinate 25mg
- Available in 200-count bottles
- Designed for stress-related insomnia and occasional sleeplessness
- Non-habit forming formula
- Suitable for home or travel use
- Can also aid in managing symptoms of cold, allergies, and fever
Who it’s best for:
- Adults dealing with occasional sleeplessness
- Travelers experiencing jet lag or time zone shifts
- Those seeking a non-habit forming sleep aid
- Individuals needing relief from cold or allergy-related sleeplessness
3. Nature’s Bounty Melatonin
Nature’s Bounty Melatonin is a dietary supplement designed to support rest and relaxation, often used as a sleep aid for those experiencing occasional sleeplessness. Melatonin is a hormone naturally found in the body and is closely related to the natural sleep cycle. The supplement comes in a softgel form, making it easy to take before bedtime. Each softgel contains 5mg of melatonin, and it is marketed as 100% drug-free. This product is non-GMO and free of gluten, sugar, lactose, and yeast.
For those traveling or dealing with disrupted sleep schedules, like during air travel, this melatonin supplement can provide an additional option to help promote sleep. Many travelers may find it beneficial for addressing jet lag or for aiding sleep in unfamiliar environments. The product is available in different pack sizes, including a 90-count option.
Key Highlights:
- Contains 5mg of melatonin per softgel
- Non-GMO and 100% drug-free
- Free of gluten, sugar, lactose, and yeast
- Supports rest and relaxation
- Available in various pack sizes
Who it’s best for:
- People looking for a non-GMO, drug-free sleep aid
- Individuals experiencing occasional sleeplessness or jet lag
- Air travelers seeking to regulate their sleep during or after flights
- Adults in need of a dietary supplement to support rest and relaxation
4. Aleve PM Sleep Aid Plus Pain Reliever
Aleve PM Sleep Aid Plus Pain Reliever combines a nighttime sleep aid with pain relief, offering support for those dealing with minor aches and occasional sleeplessness. The product contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride, which helps with falling and staying asleep, along with naproxen sodium, which relieves pain. This product is intended for adults and children over 12 years old, providing pain relief and sleep aid support for up to 12 hours with just two caplets. It is designed for people who need assistance with sleep due to minor pains that may disrupt rest during the night.
The caplets are easy to take, and the product is safe for use when directions are followed properly. Aleve PM is not just for sleep but for those who want effective pain relief alongside support for sleeplessness. It’s available in various sizes and is one of the options available over the counter for occasional sleeplessness linked with minor pain. It’s important to check for any compatibility issues with international outlets if traveling abroad.
Key Highlights:
- Combines diphenhydramine hydrochloride (sleep aid) and naproxen sodium (pain reliever)
- Provides pain relief for up to 12 hours
- Helps with occasional sleeplessness associated with minor aches
- Suitable for adults and children 12 years and older
- Safe when used as directed
Who it’s best for:
- People who experience occasional sleeplessness due to minor pain
- Adults and children 12 years and older looking for combined sleep aid and pain relief
- Those who prefer an over-the-counter option for pain and sleep issues
5. Klaire Labs Melatonin Lozenge Formula
Klaire Labs offers a Melatonin Lozenge Formula that supports healthy sleep by aiding in the regulation of normal sleep and wake cycles. The product contains 1 mg of melatonin per tablet, which is often used to replace the body's natural melatonin that may decrease with age. Melatonin is widely known for its role in improving sleep quality, especially during periods of travel or time zone shifts. These lozenges are formulated for quick release and are sweetened with mannitol and natural cherry flavor.
The lozenges can either be dissolved in the mouth or swallowed whole, providing flexibility for users depending on their preference. With 60 tablets in a container, this product is ideal for those looking for a travel-friendly sleep aid that fits into their routine. Klaire Labs products are created with strict adherence to GMP standards, ensuring purity and quality without any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Key Highlights:
- Supports healthy sleep cycles
- Quick-release formula with natural cherry flavor
- Dissolves in the mouth or can be swallowed whole
- Professional-grade product, GMP quality assured
- Contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Free from common allergens such as milk, eggs, and gluten
Who it’s best for:
- Individuals struggling with sleep during air travel
- People who need supplemental melatonin due to age or other factors
- Those seeking a travel-friendly sleep aid without artificial ingredients
- Individuals with dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free)
6. Kirkland Signature Sleep Aid Doxylamine Succinate
The Kirkland Signature Sleep Aid is a nighttime sleep aid that contains Doxylamine Succinate, which is commonly used to help with occasional sleeplessness. This product offers a simple solution for individuals looking to fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night. It is sold in tablet form, with 96 tablets per bottle, and is intended for adult use.
This sleep aid is comparable to other over-the-counter sleep medications like Unisom. It is designed to be taken with just one tablet per dose and claims to be effective in supporting sleep without requiring a prescription. Users who need extra support in falling asleep quickly may find this a viable option for air travel or general use.
Key Highlights:
- Contains Doxylamine Succinate, a common sleep aid ingredient
- 96 tablets per bottle
- Intended for adults
- Tablet form, easy to take
- Non-prescription nighttime sleep support
- Comparable to Unisom SleepTabs
Who it’s best for:
- Adults with occasional sleeplessness
- Individuals who want a non-prescription sleep aid
- Those looking for sleep support during travel
- People who have previously used Unisom or similar products
7. Benadryl Ultratabs Antihistamine Allergy Relief Medicine
Benadryl Ultratabs Antihistamine Allergy Relief Medicine offers diphenhydramine HCl tablets that provide relief from symptoms related to allergies and the common cold. These tablets target issues such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation, which are common during air travel, especially in dry cabin environments. The product is compact and convenient for travelers, with each tablet containing 25 mg of diphenhydramine HCl, which also doubles as a sleep aid, helping travelers relax during flights.
These tablets are effective for both indoor and outdoor allergens, making them useful for travelers exposed to various environments. The product is suitable for adults and children over six years old, providing temporary relief for upper respiratory allergies and cold symptoms. While not primarily marketed as a sleep aid, the drowsiness-inducing properties of diphenhydramine make it a potential solution for restless flyers seeking better rest during air travel.
Key Highlights:
- Contains diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg per tablet
- Relieves allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and throat
- Helps alleviate common cold symptoms like a runny nose and sneezing
- Compact, easy-to-swallow tablet design
- Suitable for adults and children aged 6 and older
Who it’s best for:
- Travelers looking for temporary relief from allergy symptoms during flights
- Those seeking a mild sleep aid to help rest during air travel
- Individuals who experience upper respiratory allergies triggered by environmental factors
8. Allergy Research Group Liposomal Melatonin
Liposomal Melatonin by Allergy Research Group is a liquid melatonin supplement designed to support healthy sleep cycles, particularly during travel or other times when natural sleep rhythms may be disrupted. This product uses a liposomal delivery system to improve the absorption and retention of melatonin in the body, ensuring that users experience its full effect throughout the night. The liquid format allows for flexible dosing, so it is a convenient option for those who may find pills or capsules difficult to swallow during air travel.
The product includes 1 mg of melatonin per serving and contains additional ingredients such as phospholipids derived from sunflower seed lecithin, glycerin, and natural vitamin E. It is recommended for short-term use by adults and children to support falling asleep faster and maintaining restful sleep through the night. The liquid can be taken directly or mixed with water, and it is suggested to hold it in the mouth for 30 seconds before swallowing to maximize absorption.
Key Highlights:
- 1 mg of melatonin per serving
- Liposomal delivery system for improved bioavailability
- Supports healthy sleep cycles
- Liquid form for ease of use
- Contains phospholipids from sunflower seed lecithin
Who it’s best for:
- People experiencing jet lag or disrupted sleep patterns during air travel
- Adults and children needing short-term sleep support
- Individuals who prefer liquid supplements over capsules or tablets
9. Gaia Herbs Valerian Root
Gaia Herbs Valerian Root is a sleep aid product designed to support relaxation and help users wind down before bed. This herbal supplement comes in the form of vegan capsules and is formulated using organic valerian root extract, an herb traditionally used for promoting restful sleep. Valerian root has been known for its calming properties, so it is a popular choice for those seeking natural sleep solutions, especially in stressful situations like air travel.
This product offers a 30-day supply of liquid phyto-capsules that are purity-tested to be free from gluten and are made in the USA. Gaia Herbs has a long-standing history, having operated since 1987, and focuses on connecting people with plant-based healing. This valerian root supplement may serve as a helpful tool for travelers who have trouble sleeping, providing a simple and natural way to achieve better rest during flights.
Key Highlights:
- Supports relaxation and calm in stressful situations
- Contains organic valerian root extract
- Vegan and gluten-free
- Made in North Carolina, USA
- Purity-tested and non-GMO
Who it’s best for:
- Air travelers who have difficulty sleeping
- Individuals seeking a natural herbal remedy for sleep
- Those looking for a vegan and gluten-free sleep aid option
- People who prefer plant-based, non-habit-forming supplements
10. Herb Pharm, Baldrian
Herb Pharm offers an alcohol-free valerian extract designed to support relaxation and restful sleep. Valerian has been traditionally used to help with sleep difficulties and is known for its calming properties on the nervous system. The product comes in a 1 fl oz (30 ml) bottle and is certified organic, containing valerian root extract and organic glycerin as its main ingredients. This supplement is designed for those looking for a natural aid to help ease into a restful state, whether at home or while traveling.
The product is easy to use, with simple instructions advising users to take it diluted in water or juice. It is especially suited for consumption before bed, with up to four daily doses recommended for general relaxation. Herb Pharm’s valerian extract is alcohol-free and gluten-free, ensuring that it meets various dietary preferences and restrictions.
Key Highlights:
- Alcohol-free valerian root extract
- Certified USDA organic
- Supports relaxation and restful sleep
- Free from gluten
- Packaged in a 1 fl oz (30 ml) bottle
Who it’s best for:
- Individuals seeking a natural, herbal sleep aid
- Those with gluten sensitivities
- People looking for an alcohol-free supplement for sleep
- Travelers needing a compact and easy-to-use sleep aid
11. Douglas Laboratories Melatonin Prolonged Release
Douglas Laboratories Melatonin Prolonged Release offers a sleep support supplement designed to help regulate sleep patterns by providing a slow release of melatonin throughout the night. Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced in the body that helps control sleep and wake cycles. Over time, stress or age may reduce melatonin production, leading to sleep disturbances. This supplement aims to address this by releasing 3 mg of melatonin in a prolonged format, which helps individuals fall asleep and stay asleep during the night. It also includes antioxidant properties to support the immune system.
Douglas Laboratories is recognized for their science-based supplements, and this product follows the same standard. It’s formulated to manage cortisol levels and support hormone balance, contributing to overall relaxation. The supplement is also free of genetically modified organisms (GMO) and is produced in a GMP-compliant facility, ensuring high-quality standards. The tablets are specifically designed for adults, and the prolonged-release function is intended to maintain sleep quality throughout the night.
Key Highlights:
- Contains 3 mg of melatonin per tablet
- Prolonged release for sustained sleep support
- Includes antioxidant properties to support immune function
- Formulated for cortisol and hormone balance
- GMO-free and produced in a GMP-compliant facility
Who it’s best for:
- Adults experiencing sleep disturbances
- Individuals looking for prolonged sleep aid
- Those interested in natural hormone balance support
- People seeking a melatonin supplement with immune benefits
12. Unisom SleepTabs
Unisom SleepTabs are over-the-counter sleep aids containing Doxylamine Succinate, designed to help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night. Each tablet helps reduce the time it takes to fall asleep by about 33%, as shown in clinical studies. Unisom SleepTabs are non-habit forming, so they are a suitable option for occasional use when sleeplessness becomes an issue. The product is intended for adults and children aged 12 and above, with one tablet taken 30 minutes before bedtime.
These sleep aids are part of Unisom's broader sleep aid product range, including SleepGels, SleepMinis, and SleepMelts, each formulated with different active ingredients and forms to cater to various preferences. While Unisom SleepTabs use Doxylamine Succinate as the active ingredient, other products like SleepGels utilize Diphenhydramine HCI. Unisom is often recommended by pharmacists for people who experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, offering a range of options depending on individual needs.
Key Highlights:
- Contains Doxylamine Succinate to help users fall asleep 33% faster.
- Non-habit forming and safe when used as directed for occasional insomnia.
- Comes in a tablet form, with 48 tablets per bottle.
- Suitable for adults and children 12 years and older.
- Recommended by pharmacists based on OTC sleep aid surveys.
Who it’s best for:
- Adults and children 12 years and older who experience occasional sleeplessness.
- People who prefer a non-habit-forming sleep aid.
- Individuals looking for a tablet-based sleep aid that is easy to take.
- Those seeking a clinically proven solution for falling asleep faster.
13. Charlotte’s Web Liquid Capsules
Charlotte’s Web Liquid Capsules offer a simple, convenient solution for incorporating CBD into daily wellness routines. These capsules are formulated with USA-grown hemp. Available in different counts (30, 60, and 90 capsules) and strengths (15mg or 25mg per capsule), these capsules are gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free. Users can easily add them to their regimen as a travel-friendly option for supporting overall wellness.
The capsules come in liquid-filled form, a new feature that distinguishes them from the previously available powder-filled versions. These capsules aim to support healthy sleep cycles, so they are a potential option for travelers seeking relief from stress and improved sleep during flights. The inclusion of hemp-derived CBD helps create a natural approach to wellness without the need for additional supplements.
Key Highlights:
- Supports a sense of calm and focus
- Helps manage daily stress
- Aids in recovery from exercise-induced inflammation
- Promotes healthy sleep cycles
- Available in 15mg and 25mg strengths
- Gluten-free, kosher, 100% vegan, and allergen-free
- Made from USA-grown hemp
Who it’s best for:
- Individuals seeking a natural approach to managing stress
- Travelers looking for sleep support during flights
- People in need of post-exercise recovery
- Those who prefer plant-based, allergen-free wellness products
14. Herbal Secrets Valerian Root Supplement
Herbal Secrets offers a Valerian Root supplement in capsule form, designed to support relaxation and promote a calming effect. Each capsule contains 500 mg of Valerian Root and is made from non-GMO ingredients. The product comes in a bottle with 120 capsules, and is part of the company’s commitment to providing all-natural herbal products. The capsules are vegetarian and are aimed at those seeking a natural way to support relaxation and overall cell health.
The company manufactures its products in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, emphasizing ethical production methods. Herbal Secrets also donates to Vitamin Angels, a non-profit organization that focuses on combating childhood malnutrition through vitamin supplementation. Valerian Root is a popular herbal remedy often used to promote calmness, and it may be useful for travelers looking for natural aids during air travel.
Key Highlights:
- 500 mg Valerian Root per capsule
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility in the USA
- Vegetarian capsules
- Supports relaxation and promotes cell health
- Part of Vitamin Angels donation program
Who it’s best for:
- Air travelers seeking natural relaxation aids
- People looking for non-GMO, herbal-based supplements
- Individuals interested in vegetarian supplement options
- Those who prefer products made in GMP-certified facilities
15. Traveltonin
Traveltonin is a supplement designed specifically to help travelers manage jet lag, restlessness, and stress while flying. The formula combines several active ingredients, including melatonin, ashwagandha, L-theanine, GABA, and lemon balm, all known for their sleep and relaxation benefits. These ingredients work together to help travelers overcome the common challenges of sleeping in unfamiliar environments like airplanes or hotel rooms. Traveltonin comes in convenient blister packs, so it is easy to carry and use it during long trips.
In addition to supporting sleep, Traveltonin aims to provide immune support, which can be especially useful during travel when the immune system may be stressed. The blend of natural adaptogens and amino acids helps promote relaxation and restore the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, especially when crossing multiple time zones. It is a drug-free supplement and is suitable for anyone looking for a natural option to help with sleep during travel.
Key Highlights:
- Contains melatonin for sleep cycle support
- Includes ashwagandha, L-theanine, GABA, and lemon balm for relaxation and stress relief
- Packaged in convenient blister packs for easy use during travel
- Offers immune system support, especially during travel stress
- Designed to combat jet lag and restlessness during flights
Who it’s best for:
- Business travelers
- Frequent flyers crossing multiple time zones
- Flight attendants and pilots
- Athletes traveling for competitions
- Leisure travelers seeking better sleep
16. CBD Gummies for Sleep with Melatonin by CBDfx
CBD Gummies for Sleep with Melatonin by CBDfx are formulated to support a calming nighttime routine with a blend of CBD and melatonin. Each gummy contains broad spectrum CBD along with 5mg of melatonin, a natural hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. The product also includes botanical extracts like passion flower, chamomile, and lemon balm, which are known for their calming effects. Additionally, magnesium is included to support relaxation, helping to prepare the body for sleep.
These gummies come in two strengths, 1500mg and 3000mg, offering users flexibility based on their needs. The 1500mg option provides 25mg of CBD per gummy, while the 3000mg version contains 50mg of CBD per gummy. They are all-natural, vegan, and gluten-free, making them accessible for individuals with dietary restrictions. Customers seeking a more natural alternative to traditional sleep aids may find these gummies useful for achieving better sleep.
Key Highlights:
- Broad spectrum CBD: 25mg or 50mg per gummy
- 5mg of melatonin per serving
- Contains passion flower, chamomile, and lemon balm for added calmness
- Magnesium included to support relaxation
- Vegan and gluten-free formula
- Available in 1500mg and 3000mg strengths
Who it’s best for:
- Individuals who struggle with sleep or restlessness during travel
- Those looking for a natural sleep aid without synthetic ingredients
- People with dietary restrictions, such as vegan or gluten-free preferences
- Travelers looking for a portable and easy-to-use sleep solution
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right sleep aid for air travel can make all the difference in arriving at your destination feeling refreshed rather than exhausted. Whether you prefer natural remedies like CBD gummies with melatonin, comfortable travel pillows, or noise-canceling headphones, there are plenty of options available to help you get some rest mid-flight. It’s all about figuring out what works best for you and your specific needs when it comes to sleeping while traveling.
Remember, the goal is to make your flight as comfortable as possible, so don’t be afraid to try a combination of these sleep aids to improve your chances of getting some shut-eye. With the right tools in your travel kit, you’ll be better prepared to handle long flights and arrive ready to take on whatever’s next. Safe travels and sweet dreams!