5 Simple Tips for Sleeping Better in a Tent

Love going camping, but can’t sleep well in a tent?

Many people enjoy heading out into nature for a getaway but are somewhat put off by the experience because they can’t get enough sleep. It does take some time to get used to sleeping in a different environment and under a tent, but it also takes proper planning and preparation to make sure you’re setting yourself up in the right way to be comfortable enough to sleep.

Below are some easy tips to help you sleep better in a tent.

1. Bring Appropriate Bedding. When tenting, you need to ensure you bring bedding that’s suitable for the outdoor environment. Choose bedding such as a self-inflating air mattress, airbed or stretcher that will protect you from the cold ground beneath. If you’re using a sleeping bag, make sure it’s the right size and made for the temperatures you are sleeping in. Also, if you have the extra room with you, it’s always a good idea to bring spare quilts and blankets for extra padding and warmth if needed. Finally, don’t forget a pillow. Consider inflatable travel pillows since they’re a convenient option because they don’t take up much space.  

2. Set Up in the Right Spot. Choose a spot with flat, smooth ground to pitch your tent since you don’t want to be lying on rocks or uneven ground. Also, don’t place your tent under trees, where branches and limbs could potentially fall on top of your tent creating a safety hazard. Another good reason not to set up under the trees is to avoid bird droppings falling from above. Consider how far you want to be from the bathroom if there is one. On one hand it might be convenient to be close to these facilities, yet annoying if you have to listen to other campers making bathroom trips throughout the night.

3. Manage Noise and Light. Bring a pair of earplugs, or better yet bring two pairs with you on your camping trip. They help block out distracting sounds such as loud snoring from your camping partner, birds and others passing by. Earplugs are cheap and invaluable when you need quiet to save your sanity. Bring an eye mask. They’re great for blocking out light when you need to sleep, small and easy to pack, and can really make a difference when you need to sleep but are bothered by light. If you use one, don’t forget to bring your mouthpiece to prevent your loud snoring from waking others around you. If your partner uses this device, make sure they bring theirs.

4. Dress for the Weather. Camping can get dirty, so bring enough clothes changes so you can at least go to bed feeling clean. Feeling grimy and dirty is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Also, bring clothes that you’ll be warm enough in, but not so much that you’ll overheat. If you’re too hot or too cold, you aren’t going to sleep well.

5. Keep Your Tent and Your Belongings Dry. Possibly the most important camping tip - you need to stay dry. You won’t be comfortable or happy if you are sleeping in a wet, soggy tent. So don’t let it happen. Bring along waterproof tarps to use under your tent to prevent water from seeping through your tent seams, and over your tent as a protective canopy from rain.

Camping takes time to get used to since you are sleeping in a very different environment than at home, so don’t stress about it. Give yourself a chance to enjoy the experience and make sure you try out these helpful tips.