Traveling can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be exhausting. Long days of sightseeing, navigating airports and dealing with jet lag can take a toll on your sleep. That’s why ensuring you get the best sleep possible while traveling is important. From bringing along your favorite travel weighted blanket to packing the melatonin, here are our top tips for getting the best sleep while you travel.
1) Plan Travel Times
Planning your travel times carefully ensures you get the best rest possible on the road (or in the air). If possible, book flights that arrive at night so you can go straight to bed when you reach your destination. This will help you adjust more quickly to the local time zone and reduce the effects of jet lag.
Additionally, if you’re taking a road trip, plan for regular breaks throughout the day so you don’t become overly tired from driving long distances. Taking short naps during these stops can help restore energy levels and ensure you’re well-rested for the rest of your journey.
Finally, if you’re planning a longer trip or multiple destinations in one go, make sure to build in some downtime between activities. This will give your body time to recover from all the excitement and help prevent burnout.
2) Pack Essential Sleep Accessories
To make sure you get the best sleep possible while traveling, it’s wise to pack essential sleep accessories. Here are some of the most important items to bring on your next trip:
- Ear Plugs: Ear plugs are crucial for blocking out noise from other passengers and loud airplane engines. They will help you get a good night’s rest so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready for your next adventure.
- Earbuds: If you prefer to listen to music or podcasts while sleeping, earbuds are a must-have accessory. They provide superior sound quality compared to regular headphones and won’t take up too much space in your bag.
- Sleep Mask: A good quality sleep mask is key for creating a dark environment that will help you drift off into dreamland quickly. Look for one that blocks out all light and is comfortable to wear overnight.
- Neck Pillow: Neck pillows provide extra support while sleeping on planes or trains. Choose an adjustable one to find the perfect fit for your neck size and shape.
3) Bring Your Favorite Natural Sleep Aids
If you’re looking for a more natural way to get better sleep while traveling, consider bringing your favorite sleep aids, like melatonin or CBD oil.
Melatonin is a popular choice for travelers who want to get better rest. This hormone is naturally produced by your body and helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Taking melatonin supplements before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. This is great for combating jet lag and adjusting to a new time zone.
CBD oil is another natural sleep aid that may help you relax before bedtime. CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in hemp plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects or make you feel “high” when taken in small doses. Instead, it may help reduce anxiety levels and increase your quality of sleep so you can wake up feeling refreshed.
Check the regulations of the country or region you’re visiting to make sure whatever sleep aid you bring is legal there. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, even if they are over-the-counter supplements like melatonin or CBD oil. Traveling with these substances could result in legal repercussions depending on where you’re going, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and do some research beforehand.
4) Use a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular for improving sleep quality and are especially useful when traveling. These blankets provide a comforting hug-like sensation that can help you relax and drift off to sleep quickly. They also reduce stress levels, which helps combat the effects of jet lag.
Look for a blanket specifically designed for travel, as they are typically better suited for transport than regular weighted blankets. This will make it easier to pack and take on planes or trains. If you’re driving, you may opt for a traditional option with more pressure.
5) Take Advantage of Hotel Amenities
Don’t forget to take advantage of your hotel’s amenities when traveling. For example, a hot bath before bedtime can help soothe sore muscles and promote deeper relaxation, leading to an easier transition into sleep.
Saunas are another popular amenity in many hotels that can help promote a restful night’s sleep. Heat therapy has been used for centuries to help relax the body and reduce stress levels, making it easier to drift off into dreamland. The steamy environment of a sauna also helps open airways, improving breathing and relieving respiratory issues like allergies or asthma.
Lastly, feel free to treat yourself and book a massage to help you relax and unwind before bedtime. Massages can help reduce stress levels, enhance circulation and promote better sleep quality — all of which are essential for getting a good night’s rest while traveling.
Don’t be afraid to indulge in these luxuries while traveling! Taking advantage of a hot bath or sauna can be just the thing you need for a peaceful slumber on the go.
Final Thoughts
Traveling can be a stressful experience, making it difficult to get an adequate amount of sleep. Fortunately, there are many ways you can make this process easier. Packing the right accessories, such as eye masks and ear plugs, and taking advantage of hotel amenities like hot baths and saunas can help promote better sleep quality while traveling.
Also, don’t forget to bring some comfy sleepwear for extra relaxation and comfort and a weighted blanket for a gentle nighttime hug. With these tips in mind, you should be able to ensure that your time away from home is just as restful as it is exciting.
