Published by FlyHugz. We make travel pillows and sleep accessories, so we mention them where they fit.
Quick answer: choose a contoured mask with a flat strap. A contoured shape keeps pressure off your eyes and closes the gaps where cabin light gets in. A flat strap stays comfortable when your head rests against a seat or pillow.
What to look for
- Light seal. Most light gets in around the nose. Check for a shape that sits close to your face there.
- Eye space. A contoured cup lets you open and close your eyes without the fabric touching them.
- Strap. A flat, adjustable strap is more comfortable than a thick buckle behind your head.
- Weight. You will wear it for hours, so a lighter mask is easier to forget about.
- Care. Your mask sits on your skin, so make sure it can be washed.
Contoured or flat?
Flat masks are thin and pack almost anywhere, but they press on your eyelids and can leak light at the nose. Contoured masks take a little more room in your bag and hold their shape, so they block more light and feel lighter on your eyes. For a long flight, contoured is the better choice for most people.
Do eye masks work on planes?
A plane cabin has reading lights, screens and window shades that can open at any time. A good mask blocks most of the light whichever seat you get, which matters most on daytime flights and in aisle seats. Our guide to the best seat on a plane for sleeping covers the rest.
Our pick
The FlyHugz premium sleep mask is contoured memory foam with a blackout seal, a flat strap and a weight of about 1.5 oz. It comes with a pouch and can be hand washed. Add travel ear plugs if noise keeps you awake too.
Common questions
Can you wear an eye mask with a neck pillow?
Yes. A flat strap works best, because it does not press into the back of your head when you lean on the pillow.
How do I wash a memory foam sleep mask?
Hand wash it gently and let it air dry fully before you pack it.
Are sleep masks only for flights?
No. They are just as useful on trains, in hotel rooms with thin curtains and at home.