Last Updated on June 24, 2023
Sleep can be quite elusive when you’re traveling, especially for people traveling on a plane. Usually, there are lots of challenges to contend with, ranging from jet lag and to flight stress to uncomfortable lights, and high noise levels.
A good sleep mask can help you to block out intrusive plane lights, enabling you to have a sound sleep. Of course, there are thousands of sleep masks out there and it may be a bit difficult to find a product that delivers on its claims.
We’ve prepared a review of some of the best sleep masks for travelers, but first things first.
How Do You Choose A Good Sleep Mask?
Lots of factors go into selecting the right sleep mask. Some of the top considerations include;
1. Material
Since a sleep mask is designed to wrap around your face, you want a product that’s made of skin-friendly material. First, look for breathable material. Sleep masks made of breathable materials are especially handy if you’re traveling during warm and humid conditions.
Also, consider a mask that’s made of soft and plush material, such as silk. Above all, the material should be light enough on your face but thick enough to block maximum light.
2. Lightweight
As we’ve already highlighted, a sleep mask shouldn’t feel like you’re wearing extra baggage around your eyes. Typically, look for masks that weigh around 1½ ounces.
3. Adjustability
A sleep mask should also fit different head sizes comfortably. But since no mask is a one-size-fits-all, you should, at least, buy a mask that comes with adjustable straps.
Common materials used for adjustable sleep mask straps include Velcro and buckle. Buckle straps are more preferred as they won’t tangle in your hair.
4. Durability
One of the aspects of durability to consider is whether the sleep mask is made from machine-washable material.
Also, you might want to go for neutral or earth-toned colors which don’t demand frequent washing.
5. Convex Masks
Lastly, you should insist on sleep masks that provide some space allowance between the mask and your eyelids. That allows your eyes to move freely inside the masks.
6 Best Sleep Masks for Travelers
1. Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
- Size: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
- Weight: 0.64 ounces
- Color Options: Black, Black Stars, Blossom Almond, Night Scene, Pink, etc.
- Material: 100% Natural Mulberry Silk
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3BVNpWP
Pros
• Comes with adjustable straps
• Comfortable and breathable material
• Can be used to sleep on the side
Cons
• Fit loosens with time
Product Description
Made from 100% natural silk, the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask is one of the most comfortable sleep masks out there. The silk is breathable, making this mask ideal for traveling during hot and humid weather conditions.
Alaska Bear comes with adjustable straps, so it can fit comfortably around different head sizes. Its plastic adjuster is designed to stay at the back of your head as opposed to your temples, making the mask excellent for side-sleepers.
The 0.7 inches thickness blocks maximum light to ensure that you have a comfortable sleep throughout your travel.
2. Dream Essentials Lavender Sleep Mask
- Size: 10 x 4 x 1 inches
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Color Options: Ruby and Onyx
- Material: Linen Satin on the outside and 100% Cotton on the inside
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3fesbLK
Pros
• Comes with lavender aromatherapy sachet
• Comfortable and relaxing
Cons
• Doesn’t block 100% of the light
• Unideal for people who’re sensitive to fragrances
Product Description
Dream Essentials comes with a pocket built in the front that allows you to slip in your favorite fragrance sachet. That adds a touch of aromatherapy to your sleep, which is effective in fighting insomnia.
If you don’t fancy the idea of sleep fragrances, you can still use the front pocket to keep your earplugs or other tiny travel essentials. But even when the pocket is full, the mask is still neat and foldable. Dream Essentials also features adjustable Velcro straps and hooks that you can use to adjust its fit.
3. Bedtime Bliss Sleep Mask
- Size: 9.4 x 2.8 x 0.2 inches
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Color Options: Black, Jet Black, Blue, Red, Purple, Pink, and Turquoise
- Material: Bamboo and Cotton
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3BzwlWo
Pros
• Incredible at blocking light
• Keeps pressure off your eyes
• Doesn’t interfere with your makeup
Cons
• Not as durable as other masks
• Strap can be difficult to adjust
Product Description
Bedtime Bliss Sleep Mask sports a contoured design that blocks maximum light so you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep. The design also gives you ample room to open and move your eyes. Bedtime Bliss sleep mask delivers total darkness to your eyes, enabling you to sleep during any time of the day. You can even use it to meditate.
Another great thing about this sleep mask is that it won’t smudge your makeup, and is also compatible with your Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy apparatus. What’s more – the package includes a carry case and earplugs.
4. Jersey Slumber Silk Sleep Mask
- Size: 8 x 4 x 0.2 inches
- Weight: 0.16 ounces
- Color Options: Black, Blue, Pink, etc.
- Material: 100% Silk
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3xJSAHW
Pros
• Modifiable slider strap
• Ideal for sensitive eyes and skin
• Relatively affordable
Cons
• Not recommended for all sleeping positions
Product Description
The use of 100% high-quality, natural silk is one of the most admirable things about the Jersey Slumber Silk Sleep Mask. The silk material makes the mask smooth, comfortable, and easy on your eyes and skin. Silk’s excellent breathability makes it possible to wear this mask regardless of the prevailing temperature and humidity conditions.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, durable, and reliable hypoallergenic travel sleep mask, look no further than Jersey Slumber Silk Sleep Mask. The fact that the mask blocks maximum light means you can even use it to meditate mid-flight.
5. Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask
- Size: 7.5 x 3.5 x 0.18 inches
- Weight: 0.64 ounces
- Color Options: Black and Purple
- Material: Polyester
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3LBTWtO
Pros
• Flexible and adjustable
• Ample space allowance for your eyes
• Gentle nose bridge design fits travelers of all nose shapes
Cons
• Shape resembles a bra
Product Description
Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask comes in a contoured design and lenses that pop out, which ensures that they don’t touch your eyes and interfere with your sleep. Some users, especially men, may take an issue with the bra-shaped design. But considering how much space allowance the mask offers to your eyes, the shape shouldn’t be a concern at all.
The nose bridge of the Nidra sleep mask slopes gently to accommodate travelers of different nose shapes. And the inclusion of elastic bands accounts for the mask’s excellent adjustability.
6. Sound Oasis GTS-2000 Sleep Mask
- Size: 11 x 1.2 x 3.5 inches
- Weight: 1.12 ounces
- Color Options: Black, Blue, Purple, and Red
- Material: Polyester
- Product Link: https://amzn.to/3DKSxPP
Pros
• Ideal for travelers with sensitive eyes
• Super soft and comfortable
• Design doesn’t interfere with CPAP
Cons
• Is battery-powered
Product Description
Like most high-end travel sleep masks, Sound Oasis GTS-2000 Sleep Mask wraps comfortably around your face and doesn’t interfere with your CPAP therapy apparatus. The mask is made from hypoallergenic foam and polyester, making it another excellent recommendation for people with sensitive eyes.
Sound Oasis also comes with brightness and dimming controls, including three different auto-dim options that ramp down in 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The only downside to these amazing features is that you’ll require a 1 CR-2032 battery.
Conclusion
The significance of having a sound sleep during long-haul flights cannot be overstated. It’s the surest way to avoid jet lag and other travel-related sleep disorders. The above sleep masks are excellent at blocking maximum light, allowing you to drift to sleep much faster. And yes, each one of them has plenty of positive user reviews to show for it.