Please Don’t Try That Viral Airplane Napping Hack, Experts Warn

A travel napping hack viewed by millions on TikTok and Instagram is giving health and safety experts heart palpitations. The airplane hack, which involved lifting your feet from the floor to the seat, strapping them down tight with the seatbelt, and then lowering your head on your knees, is going viral — with many travelers testing the trick aboard an aircraft and posting it online.

One user posted that the hack was “life changing,” but experts warn it is not only likely ineffective, it’s dangerous and potentially bad for your body. 

“It’s not suggested to sit this way because if there is rough air, you can jolt you forward or up and down, and can risk injuries,” says Jasmine Khadija, who has been a mainline flight attendant for two years. “If there’s an emergency evacuation, It’s strongly advised to avoid any trip hazards including belts and straps of any kind around the feet area.” 

Health experts warn that while it may be comfortable for some, your body is not in a great position for rest, and it can even cause problems. 

“This position doesn’t allow your body to relax fully and can cause discomfort due to the awkward curvature of your spine and the strain it puts on your neck,” says Dr. Chelsea Perry, lead clinician and owner of Sleep Solutions. She also emphasizes that this position could cause circulation issues. “While it might work for a quick nap, it’s not ideal for longer periods.”

“Any slight turbulence may cause your head to bump your knees, possibly causing an injury, and the forward head position can lead to neck cramps and headaches,” agrees Cali Bahrenfuss, CCSH, RPSGT, clinical sleep health educator and owner of Delta Sleep Coaching. “Having your head resting on your knees can also create a pinched or disrupted airway, leading to snoring or difficulty breathing properly while sleeping.”

Both sleep experts agree that resting in a normal seated position, with your legs forward (and even a bit elevated if possible), either slightly reclined or with your head to the side, is the best for the body (and for the likelihood of sleep). They both also encourage moving into different positions (particularly, moving your legs) in order to increase circulation and keep your body happy. 

Khadija also notes that this TikTok hack may not even be possible, as flight attendants will often be around and tell you to sit properly. “We’ll ask and advise not to sit that way,” she says.

In other words? Best to leave this one on the apps.