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As an experienced traveler, I’ve taken countless red-eye flights where I’ve only dreamed of getting a good night’s rest. Between cramped cabins, glaring lights (natural and artificial) and seemingly nonstop in-flight announcements, getting good sleep while flying can seem elusive.
Thankfully, my in-flight slumber woes nosedived when I discovered one specific sleep mask. To me, it’s the best travel eye mask on the market. After cycling through countless masks of different brands for what felt like forever, this one has been my go-to eye mask for a few years now, whether I’m flying short or long flights. Lightweight and easy to pack, it’s my secret weapon for getting quality shut-eye while flying the friendly skies.
Why You Should Trust Me on Sleep Essentials
When it comes to sleep, I don’t skimp. I try to get at least 7.5 hours of sleep every night. While I’m not always successful, I do my best to wind down and prepare for a restful siesta. On my quest for the best sleep (on and off planes), I’ve tested numerous products designed for optimal slumber.
From noise-cancelling earplugs to ergonomic neck pillows, I’ve tried and reviewed a wide variety of items that claim to be the answer to sleepless flights. Of course, that long list includes plenty of travel eye masks.
Over the years, I’ve come across some that were fine, but none have come close to the qualities that matter to me the most, like this one.
The $19 Eye Mask That Finally Let Me Sleep on a Plane
The Nidra sleep mask has been a godsend and checked all my boxes for what makes a quality travel eye mask, especially for long flights. It’s breathable, feels good on my skin and completely blocks out all light.
What’s more, it’s contoured with deep cups that keep pressure off my eyes. I can blink and not feel restricted. A bonus: it doesn’t smash my eyelashes or smudge my makeup. So, I can hop off the plane and not worry about looking like a raccoon due to smeared eyeliner and mascara. Trust me, this comes in handy when your hotel room isn’t ready when your plane lands so you have to grab lunch while you wait.
When I wear this sleep mask for long flights, I can rest (literally!) assured that I’ll get deep sleep even in economy seats.
Material, Fit and Light-Blocking Features
Finding the perfect travel eye mask takes some trial and error. For starters, the material is one of the most crucial elements. If it’s scratchy, too heavy or irritates your skin, that’s an automatic no. Thankfully, this sleep mask is super soft and virtually weightless.
Made of memory foam, it’s breathable and boasts a comfortable fit. The soft materials create a barely-there feeling that’s not too thick and keeps me cool and cozy.
Another important detail is the adjustable strap. Imagine finding your dream travel eye mask, only to discover it doesn’t fit? Being able to adjust the eye mask is a non-negotiable for me. I need the option to fit it to size. For example, if I’m wearing a hoodie, I’ll need extra room to adjust it around my head.
🛫Editor’s Pick: Best Travel Eye Mask
Block out light and distractions with this fully adjustable, ultra-comfy eye mask designed for deep rest on long flights and hotel stays.
- 100% blackout design
- Soft, breathable materials
- Adjustable eye cups for zero pressure
- Blink and lash friendly
- Ideal for planes, hotels, and home
The Velcro strap on the Nidra mask offers that flexibility. Plus, it doesn’t have any pressure points, so you can lay on your pillow or lean against the window comfortably.
Above all, the ability to block light is first and foremost. For me, it’s the most important element because no matter how low flight attendants dim the cabin lights, the glare always keeps me awake. Not to mention in the morning when I’m still hours away from my destination, but the sun has made its grand appearance—shielding my peepers is a must.
Designed for darkness, this game-changing eye mask delivers. It blocks 100% of light, which is vital for restorative sleep.
How It Compares to Other Masks I’ve Tried
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect travel eye mask for years. As you can imagine, I’ve accumulated quite a bit of these handy travel essentials. Everything from flimsy airline freebies to cult-favorite silk versions that celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Selena Gomez swear by, I have tried them all.
While some were soft and compact, they often were too tight or let in too much light or slipped off mid-flight. That’s why the Nidra eye mask stands out. It fits snugly and stays put until I take it off.
Compared to the standard contoured masks I’ve used, it provides true blackout coverage without a suffocating effect. The deep eye cups and adjustable straps put it in a different league—no other mask I’ve worn gives that level of customizable comfort.
Why It’s Now a Permanent Part of My Carry-On
This eye mask has been a mainstay in my carry-on for months and for good reason. While it’s slightly bulkier than a flat mask, the sleep you’ll gain will be worth the tiny space sacrificed in your bag. Plus, it comes in a convenient pouch that fits nicely inside a pocket in your favorite carry-on.
I keep mine zipped in my bag’s front pocket for easy access. The last thing you want to do is pack it in your suitcase or in a bag in the overhead bin. Keep it close and within reach for when sleepiness strikes.
This travel sleep mask has upgraded my red-eye routine, giving me hours of uninterrupted sleep. In fact, I used it during a recent flight from New York City to Dubai. It was the perfect antidote to jet lag because I woke up feeling refreshed and well-rested. That’s why I never catch a flight without it.
Plus, it works overtime once you’ve reached your destination. I also use it during hotel stays when that one crack in the blackout curtains won’t close.
Where to Shop the Travel Eye Mask I Recommend
You can buy the Nidra eye mask on Amazon for under $20. It comes in five colors, including pink, purple, blue, brown, and black. I prefer the latter option for the practical benefits.
Related: I’ve Tested 20+ Pairs of Travel Pants—These Are the Ones I Trust on Every Flight
