Nobody enjoys camping more than nature enthusiasts. It's a totally engrossing experience, free of phone calls, social media, and 24-hour news. It's just you and the outdoors, with the peaceful chirp of crickets replacing your smartphone's anxious buzzing.
More Things To Know About Five Tips To Sleep Better At Camp
But there's a strange irony in all of this relaxation: it can be difficult to sleep!
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This isn't unexpected if you think about it for a second. After all, you're accustomed to sleeping in a warm bed, most likely on a mattress you choose for its comfort. You're in a bug-free climate-controlled environment, and you're merely used to sleeping on your own bed.
We've compiled a list of helpful hints to help you get as much rest as possible on your next adventure. Let's get this party started!
Make Use of an Air Mattress or a Cot
Anyone who has participated in scouting campouts has used a sleeping mat. That's fine if you're backpacking in the backcountry and need to keep your weight as light as possible.
Even the greatest sleeping pad, however, will not provide enough cushion to keep you safe from the inevitable tree root. You know the type. It's the unseen root that you don't notice when deciding where to pitch your tent.
A good air mattress will protect your back from any form of root or rock. Depending on your budget, many air mattresses are even self-inflating, which means you simply open the valve and let it do its job.
If you aren't hiking, a cot is an even more comfortable option. Cots elevate you above the ground, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They also make your tent feel more spacious because you can keep any luggage or supplies beneath the cot.
The Coleman ComfortSmart Cot includes a comfortable foam mattress and weighs only 21 pounds. It's ideal for car camping.
Get Rid Of Mosquitoes
Few things can spoil a good night's sleep like a mosquito. You start nodding asleep and hear that high-pitched buzzing.
You know it's going to bite sooner or later. That kind of anxiousness can ruin a good night's sleep and will not help you sleep better at camping.
A tight tent and a can of mosquito spray are two certain ways to keep the bloodsuckers at bay.
Of course, even the most secure tent in the world won't help you if you leave it open. When you're not going in and out, keep your flap zippered. Get yourself a great vented tent with mesh panels that allow for plenty of airflow if you need a breeze.
It's a good idea to thoroughly sprinkle oneself with bug spray before retiring for the night. Take special care of your arms, neck, and behind your ears. Those are the places that are most exposed and sensitive to bug bites.
Picaridin has been our go-to bug spray for the past few years. Sawyer Picaridin Lotion works equally as well as DEET and does not stink or melt certain plastics like DEET.
Dress Lightly
It's tempting to dress warmly for sleep, especially in the winter. After all, you want to be nice and warm all night.
Heavy clothing, on the other hand, can work against you. They'll cause you to gradually warm up over the night, and you'll wake up unpleasant and drenched in perspiration in the small hours.
Furthermore, heavier clothing might be constricting and bunch up on you when you twist and turn.
Wear garments that are loose, light, and breathable to get a good night's sleep. You'll sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.
Make Use Of A Camping Pillow
At home, you wouldn't sleep without a pillow. Why wouldn't you bring one with you when you go camping? By cradling your head in place, a good camping pillow gives lots of relief for your head and can help prevent neck cramps.
Pillows are usually not a good option for hiking. They add bulk to your backpack and make packing more difficult. That being said, there's no reason your head should be resting on uneven ground.
Many sleeping bags include built-in pillows that can be rolled into your compression pack for simple transport. If you're not going too far, consider the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow.
Go To Bed At Your Normally Scheduled Time
You go to the woods to unwind, unwind, and forget about regular life. And, as everyone knows, time flies when you're having a good time.
Unfortunately, our bodies do not always agree. They want to stick to a routine and know when it's time to sleep.
If you stay up too late, you may find yourself getting a second wind. If that happens, you won't be able to sleep for the next few hours.
Go to bed at your usual time to get a good night's sleep. You'll fall asleep faster and sleep better than ever before at the camping.