Lack of sleep can have a huge negative impact on your well-being; however, the ill effects of no sleep are amplified when you’re traveling.
Think about it: it’s almost impossible to enjoy anything on-the-go if you’re completed wiped out. While getting your rest while traveling seems like a no-brainer, it can be difficult if you’re trying to handle lots of activities and attractions in short span of time. Likewise, you may find it difficult to catch any Z’s due to the following factors:
- Motion sickness, which can strike hard if you’re not used to long road trips or plane rides
- Anxiousness about travel, especially if you have a fear of flying
- Restlessness or trouble sleeping in unfamiliar environments
Thankfully, much of your ability to get a good night’s sleep on-the-go is about getting comfortable and setting yourself up for rest and relaxation. Keep the following tips in mind whether you’re taking a weekend trip alone or a much longer excursion with the whole family.
Pack Some Pillows
Simply put, comfort is key to ensuring your relaxation and ability to sleep. By packing the proper pillows in your carry-on or suitcase, you can avoid any aches or pains regardless of your travel plans or accommodations.
Consider the following, for example, which may provide the comforts of home while you’re on-the-go:
- Neck pillows, which are especially helpful during lengthy flights to prevent nagging neck pain
- Between the knee-pillows, which come in handy to help you get cozy in you find yourself stuck on a stiff mattress
- Back pillows, which are ideal for drivers and passengers alike during long car rides
In the case that you do get antsy while away from home, consider some deep breathing exercises, yoga stretches and standing breaks to help calm yourself down and keep your joints fresh.
Pack the Proper Supplements
It always pays to be prepared in terms of your medical needs: likewise, the following supplements may be the difference between a good night’s sleep and a ruined vacation:
- Antihistamines, such as Benadryl, which can help knock you out if you haven’t built up a tolerance already
- Dramamine, perfect for fighting motion sickness (consider a chewable option for small children)
- Melatonin, which is a common over-the-counter treatment for jet lag and insomnia
Be mindful, however, of potentially adverse reactions to such supplements. For example, melatonin is known to cause vivid dreams (and subsequently vivid nightmares); meanwhile, antihistamines and Dramamine can cause drowsiness and sluggishness long after ingestion.
That being said, you should make sure that you have tried each of the aforementioned medicines before relying on them for the sake of your trip.
Double-Check Your Accommodations
It may be worthwhile to double-check some hotel review sites to make sure where your staying isn’t prone to noise and interruptions. After all, you don’t want to get stuck in room a next to a busy highway or at a motel with paper-thin walls. You should be able to get a pretty good idea at a glance whether or not your accommodations will pose such problems.
Bring Noise-Blockers With You
In the case that you are stuck with a noisy sleeping arrangement, any combination of the following are compact and can help you out in a jam:
- White noise machines, which can drown out any pesky sounds
- Miniature fans, which can double as both a noisemaker and something to keep you cool at night
- Ear plugs, which can likewise make sure no noise interrupts your sleep
The more rest you’re able to get, the more you’ll ultimately enjoy your vacation. Take any of these tips with you on your travels and try to look forward to some rest and relaxation.
