Turn your red-eye into some shut eye.

Sleeping on a plane has developed into a certain kind of art — and into a healthy business — with savvy travelers constantly scoping out new ways to make long flights more conducive to actual rest. Here are a few tips that really seem to have some payoff.

Splurge on a better seat.

Sure, not everyone can afford a premium seat in first or business class, where you can take advantage of fully- or almost-fully-reclining seats and loads of leg room. But for long-distance flights, it can still be worth it to spend the extra money on an exit-row seat, a bulkhead seat or a window seat. Flying on off-peak days, like a Tuesday evening, will also increase the likelihood that the flight will be less crowded and more quiet.

Do the best you can with flight times and direct flights.

While crossing many time zones always poses its own sleep challenges, do your best to pick a flight time and schedule that will conform most naturally with your regular sleeping and waking times. Leaving in the evening will work better for you than trying to get REM at three in the afternoon.

Know your cues.

Which side of the bed do you sleep on at home? Book on that side of the plane. Do you usually have a cup of tea before bed? Bring a few packets of your favorite herbal. Also, grab your own small travel blanket and comfy slippers while you’re at it (the airline pillow or blanket can be used for extra cushioning or lumbar support if you like). Spritz your pillow with a mild lavender essential oil. The more familiar you can make things, the more your brain will recognize the cues that it’s time for rest.

Sweet darkness, sweet silence.

On most trans-oceanic flights, you’ll see the blue glow of nearly every seat back screen flickering, no matter the time. We know that the type of light regularly emitted by screens has been proven to disrupt sleep. For any rest at all — let alone good rest — keep your screen off. Bring an eye mask or cap to block out as much light as possible. Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to create the quietest environment you can.

Buckle up over the blanket.

When the plane hits turbulence, flight attendants are required to make sure people are safely buckled in. If they can’t see that your seat belt is fastened, they have to disturb you to check. Make it easy for them and for you — simply click the buckle over the blanket.

Rather than paying more for less at the airport, do some quick research before you leave home to find the best travel pillow for you.

There are dozens to choose from and they range widely in price, portability and visual quirkiness. Check out reviews like this one from the Business Insider — and note how the reviewer knows what kind of sleeper he is, which clarifies his choices and how well certain pillows will work for him. Chances are, there’s a pillow out there that will support your head and neck and give you the rest you need.

What are your best tips for getting good sleep on an airplane? We’d love to hear them. Whenever you’re ready to plan your next (well-rested) journey, we’re here to help! You can reach us today by clicking here.