Published by FlyHugz. We make travel pillows and sleep accessories, so we mention them where they fit.
Quick answer: a window seat away from the galley and lavatories is usually the best seat for sleeping. You get a wall to lean on, and nobody needs you to move. Layouts vary by aircraft, so check a seat map before you choose.
The best seats for sleeping
- Window seats. You have something to lean on and you control the shade.
- Middle of the cabin. This is usually away from galley noise and bathroom traffic. It can also feel a little smoother in turbulence.
- Rows with an empty seat. If the flight is not full, ask at check-in or look at the seat map again before boarding.
The seats to avoid
- Next to the galley or lavatories. Expect light, noise and people waiting.
- Last row. These seats may not recline.
- The row in front of an exit row. These seats may also have limited recline.
- Bulkhead rows. They offer more legroom, but they are often near bassinets and you have no space under a seat in front of you.
- Aisle seats, if you are a light sleeper. People and carts will brush past.
What if you get a middle seat?
You have nothing to lean on, so your pillow has to do the work. A pillow that closes at the front, like the FlyHugz travel pillow, holds your head without a wall beside you. Add a sleep mask and earplugs to block out your neighbors.
Tips for getting a better seat
- Choose your seat as early as your fare allows.
- Check a seat map site for your exact aircraft.
- Look again at check-in, when better seats sometimes open up.
For the rest of the routine, see our guide on how to sleep on a plane.
Common questions
Is the front or back of the plane better for sleeping?
Front cabin seats are often quieter because they are further from the engines on many aircraft, but it varies. Staying away from galleys and lavatories usually matters more.
Is a window or aisle seat better on a long flight?
For sleeping, a window. If you need to get up often, an aisle is easier.