Spending the night outdoors should be a truly unique experience – but only if you’re able to get a good night’s sleep at the end of it. We want you to experience all the benefits of camping, the chats around the fire, the games and the fun with friends and family. That’s why below we’ve compiled top tips on how to get the best sleep in the wild and ease any reservations you might have about camping. So, without further ado, here are some tips to get the best possible night’s sleep when camping:
Get the right sleeping bag
Generally, you get what you pay for with a sleeping bag. If you’re going to be camping regularly or several days at once, it’s worth the investment. The key aspect when looking for a sleeping bag is the temperature rating – always get one lower than the expected temperatures to ensure you keep warm. You can choose between a ‘mummy’ sleeping bag, they’re lighter and tend to retain heat better. Alternatively, opt for a traditional sleeping bag that can be zipped to use as a blanket. They’re a great choice for warm sleepers, as the heat retention is not as good or those camping as a one-off as they tend to be cheaper.
Add some Padding
Roll mats, airbeds and self-inflating mats are all great options for a more comfortable nights camping. It’s essential to add some form of layer between yourself and the ground. You may have the best sleeping bag or the most amazing tent, but it is guaranteed to be an uncomfortable and unenjoyable night without a comfy base layer.
Earplugs
Listening to the sounds of nature around the campfire is a great experience. But let’s be honest, when you’re trying to sleep its lets magical and more annoying. A good set of earplugs will block out any unwanted distractions from weather to wildlife. Inexperienced campers can also be apprehensive sleeping in a new environment. Earplugs help muffle the perfectly normal, yet unique sounds that can alarm the first-time camper. Eye masks are also a good addition to block out that early sunrise.
Normal Routine
Tell your body it’s time for bed, brush your teeth, change your clothes, wash your face, whatever it is you like to do – keep things the same. This helps keep everything in sync and your body clock will respond making it easier to get to sleep. Try sticking to a relatively normal bedtime too.
Choosing the best camping spot
Try to find as flat a spot as possible, not just the level of the ground but also the terrain, avoid tree roots and rocky ground. If you find yourself on a small slant, be sure to sleep with your head above your legs to avoid dizziness. Shelter from the elements is also imperative to find a peaceful spot for a night’s sleep – even with a good tent. Make sure all-natural shelters like trees and rock faces are stable however before pitching up. Your camp spot should also be away from any animal trails or prime habitats so you don’t get any unwelcome guests. Lastly, try to avoid insect hotspots around meadows and stagnant lakes.
Distraction
If you do find yourself becoming apprehensive sleeping in the wild, take something to clear your mind of it. Try a book, some music or maybe a podcast. This can help calm you down and prepare you for a good night’s rest.
Hopefully any reservations about getting a good nights sleep outdoors have been laid to rest with these tips. With the right plan in place, sleeping under the stars could end up being a highlight of your trip. Be sure to try our tips on your next adventure. Happy camping!