Sleeping Outside: How to Sleep Well During an Adventure

While a comfortable bed is undeniably the best place to sleep in, there are also those who prefer sleeping under the stars and being one with nature. The only downside is that you’re not exactly going to sleep on a soft bed and that the conditions may be less than ideal.

If you’re not too keen on losing sleep while out on an adventure, but is actually looking forward to doing something different, the best way to cope is to know what you should do to help you get some quality sleep. To give you some ideas on this, here are some tips we’ve gathered from outdoor enthusiasts and experts.

1. Look for the best bedding.

If you’re the type who can’t fall asleep on a hard surface, finding a good portable mattress is highly important. It should be lightweight and easy to pack, so it won’t be a hassle to bring it on hikes. Sleeping pads may be ideal for those who can’t be bothered lugging around extra weight, but if you want a more comfortable sleeping experience, other beddings that may be a bit heavier would also work out better for you.

2. Bring bedding accessories like a sleeping bag and a pillow.

Aside from a mattress, bringing bedding accessories like a blanket or pillow will also help you get good night’s sleep while outdoors. A pillow will help you avoid neck cramps and aches, while a blanket or sleeping bag will keep you warm at night. Sure, some may argue that the Philippines isn’t exactly known for having cold nights, but when you’re up in the mountains or in the midst of a forest, the temperatures tend to drop and create a chilly atmosphere. While some enjoy a nice cold breeze, others can’t really get some shuteye while shivering, so bringing a blanket or sleeping bag is always a good idea. In case it proves to be too hot, you can still use it as an additional bedding, to make yourself even more comfortable during the night.

3. Choose where you pitch your tent carefully.

Where you put your tent will also affect your sleep when outdoors. It can determine whether you’ll be subjected to noises, natural forces, and other things that could interrupt your forty winks.

For example, you’re spending the night in a campsite. These places are typically flat and already designed for easy use as well as allow socializing, making them the perfect choice for a lot of campers. However, they can also subject you to a lot of noise, especially during the camping season. If you can deal with noisy neighbors, this is all well and good, but if you can’t fall asleep when you can hear people talking outside, then you may want to choose a less crowded area to set up your tent in.

Another thing to consider when choosing the right spot to pitch your tent in is whether it is near any natural bodies of water or if it is basically a basin for water when the rain pours. Ensuring that your tent will stay dry despite a bad weather will allow you to sleep soundly at night, without any fears of getting yourself and all of your items wet, as well as free of getting your sleep interrupted by floods.

4. Bring some earplugs.

As mentioned earlier, campgrounds can really get noisy, especially during specific seasons. It can also be noisy from all the chirping and cricket sounds at night, because, you know, you’re right in the heart of nature. So, if you can’t fall asleep when you can hear other sounds aside from your breathing, some earplugs should be included in your pack.

5. Stay clean.

After a day of hiking, setting up camp, and lugging heavy items from one point to another among other things, it is just typical that come nightfall, you’ll be sticky and stinky from sweat. Falling asleep this way may not exactly be impossible, especially if you’re dead tired from all of your day’s activities, but if you’re one who’s easily bothered by sticky skin, then you might want to clean up first before you hit the hay.

While it can be quite difficult to shower while you’re outdoors, staying clean is not impossible. You can create a sponge bath with the help of a sock, or you can also clean yourself up with the aid of wet wipes. Not only will this free you from sticky skin, but it can also refresh you and help you sleep a lot easier.

6. Try glamping.

If you really do not want to sleep on the ground or settle with sleeping on a mat, then maybe you can try bringing the comforts of your home to a campsite. Glamping, or glamorous camping, is basically spending the night outdoors without sacrificing the comfort you love. This, however, takes a lot more effort, as you’ll need to bring bulkier items like a massive tent, actual beds or folding beds, or an RV among other things.

 

Enjoy the outdoors even more by learning how to get some good night’s sleep while out on an adventure. This way, you’ll still get to feel well rested despite all the activities you engage in during the day.