JAKARTA - Surely we've seen travelers at the airport carrying neck pillows, as if they were part of mandatory equipment when traveling by plane.
The U-shaped object is considered a loyal friend in seeking comfort sleeping while in the air. However, is it true that neck pillows are really needed, or are it just a habit formed by the travel industry?
In fact, even without a neck pillow, many people can still fall asleep on the plane. This means that comfort during flight is not only determined by the neck pillow, but how our bodies adapt to narrow spaces and long travel times.
Neck pillows have indeed become a symbol of comfort for passengers, especially those who sit in economic class. The view of people wearing them while waiting for boarding has become commonplace. But behind that, there is another perspective that should be balanced.
A shopping expert, Fred Harrington, CEO of Proxy Coupons revealed that travel pillows are actually not an important item on the way. He said that these pillows are just marketing strategies that take advantage of the fatigue of travelers at airports.
"These bonds are everywhere at the airport because they are impulsive items that prey on tired travelers," he said, quoted from the Mirror UK page.
Fred explained that most neck pillows don't really provide maximum support for the head and neck, because they are designed for just one particular sleeping position. In fact, simple items such as sweaters rolled up or small pillows from home can provide similar comfort, without having to add to the built-in load.
"This headphone will help you sleep much more soundly than pillows," he said
Fred advises travelers to prefer sound-blower headphones as a convenience solution. Travelers sometimes believe that they need special equipment for every possibility. In fact, flexible simple items are often more useful.
Fred also added that in addition to neck pillows, other items that are often not needed when traveling include travel special toiletries, universal adapters, portable phone chargers that do not meet their needs, to clothing steamers that are rarely used.
Sleeping on an airplane is indeed full of challenges, especially if the flight lasts a long time. However, with the right approach and full of awareness of the body itself, sleep can become more comfortable and quality.
One of the main ways is to rely on a chair to flatten the weight distribution. This helps reduce the pressure on the buttocks area. Subscription of seats after the meal service is complete, and re-enforce when the next meal is served, a form of small respect for other passengers.
The back is no less important. When sleeping on the plane, there is often a big gap between the chair and the lower back. Try inserting a small pillow or sweater that is rolled up to make the area more comfortable. Avoid sleeping position with your body leaning forward or leaning your head over your hand, because it can cause aches and stiffness after waking up.
Avoid consuming alcohol if you intend to sleep. Although it seems calming, alcohol can actually interfere with the sleep cycle and make the body feel more tired the next day. On the other hand, walking lightly in the airport area before boarding the plane can help the body be better prepared to rest.
Finally, choosing a seat also plays a big role. Try not to sit near the bathroom because the area tends to be more crowded. If possible, choose a chair near the plane's wing which is often more stable and calm, because it is around the emergency door.
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