Sleep Better While Camping: An Experienced Camper’s Guide
Feeling tired while camping? Sleep might seem elusive when camping if you’re uncomfortable and unfamiliar with nature’s strange sights and sounds. As an experienced camper and father of three, I understand the importance of getting good sleep while camping. Despite the challenges, there are ways to make your camping experience more enjoyable by sleeping better. In this blog post, I will share with you my top tips to help you sleep more soundly while you’re camping.
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Choose The Right Campground
Where you’re sleeping is going to be a major factor in how well you sleep. Before you book the campsite, read the reviews online and make sure you have a good idea of what kind of atmosphere you’re dealing with. Some love peace and quiet, while others prefer a more lively campground. Established campgrounds are usually better in terms of amenities, like the electrical hookup and other luxuries such as wifi or a pool area. Whatever you decide, make sure you are able to get a good night’s rest.
Pick The Right Sleep System
A comfortable sleep system is essential if you’re planning to get some shut-eye. Investing in a quality mattress pad can be a game-changer. It offers better insulation and contouring to your body, so you don’t wake up achy. You can also choose between a rectangular, mummy or a barrel shaped sleeping bag based on the weather. If you’re looking for more warmth and stability to sleep on, you can always upgrade to an inflatable camping mattress.
Be Aware of the Temperature
Another important factor for how well you can sleep while camping is the temperature. It’s beneficial to pay attention to the temperature and weather conditions, not just at night but also during the day. Dress in layers for the evenings so you can be prepared for any unexpected changes in temperature. It’s also a good idea to bring some extra blankets in case you need more warmth.
Bring Earplugs and Blocks Out the Light
Earplugs can be a godsend if you find yourself camping near a loud campsite. They can also be useful if sleeping in a noisy urban area. You’ll want to block out as much extra noise as possible so you can actually get some rest. If you’re camping somewhere without much light pollution, then you can also bring an eye mask and use it to block out any light that may be keeping you awake.
Go to Bed Early & Get Into a Routine
Setting a regular bedtime and sticking to it can help you get a good night’s sleep. Calculate how much sleep you need and plan your activities around it so you can get the appropriate amount of rest each night. Going to bed early is a great way to make sure you get a good night’s sleep, this way you’ll have more of the daylight hours to enjoy camping.
Unwind Before Turning in
Other than just setting a bedtime routine, you can also make time for some relaxing activities before bed. Take a stroll around the campground, have some herbal tea, or enjoy the warm air around the campfire with your friends. Doing something leisurely before you head to bed helps take away the anxiety and stress that’s keeping you awake.
Reflect On the Day & Let Go of Stress
Camping is also a great opportunity to take a break from all the stress of daily life. Before you turn in at night, take some time to reflect on the day and all the things you’ve experienced. Doing this will help you let go of any stress you may be carrying and make it easier to relax and drift off to sleep.
Listen to Calming Music or Podcasts
Listening to calming music or podcasts can be a great way to unwind before bed. There are a lot of relaxing music and guided meditations available online. If you prefer podcasts, then there are several options on topics like camping, nature, and outdoor activities. Bringing music, podcasts, or audiobooks with you can help you get the rest you need.
Remember to Stay Hydrated & Eat Healthy Foods
Staying hydrated and eating healthy meals is essential while camping. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out any toxins that can disrupt your sleep. Eating nutritious foods will also provide you with the necessary energy to go through the day and keep your body strong and healthy.
Conclusion
With the right preparation and a few simple tips, you’ll be able to sleep better while camping. Follow the tips in this blog post, and you can rest assured that your next camping trip will be a cozy and restful one.