How to Sleep Better on Vacation
Vacation should be relaxing, but let’s be honest—sleeping away from home and your own bed can be tough. With different time zones, noisy environments, and unfamiliar mattresses, your much-needed rest on vacation can take a hit. Check out our tips for enjoying quality sleep no matter where you are.
1. Bring a Piece of Home
Unfortunately, it’s impossible to bring your mattress with you on vacation. So instead, pack a familiar pillow, blanket, or even pillowcase. That small touch of home can help signal comfort and relaxation to your brain.
2. Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Try to keep your bedtime and wake-up time consistent—even if you’re a time zone away. Also, try not to take a nap when you arrive in a new time zone! Stay awake until your usual bedtime. This helps maintain your natural circadian rhythm and keeps jet lag in check.
3. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
That Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok scroll to check up on your friends at home might feel harmless, but the blue light can keep your brain wired. Wind down with a book, podcast, or warm shower instead. Pro tip: Try journaling about your day of travel as a wind-down activity. You will get more restful sleep and have a trip journal to look back on when your vacation is over!
4. Control the Sleep Environment
If you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs and a sleep mask. A travel-sized white noise machine or app can also work wonders in unfamiliar or noisy surroundings.
5. Watch What (and When) You Eat
It’s okay to indulge in all the delicious new foods and drinks on vacation! However, late-night meals, caffeine, and alcohol can all interfere with your sleep. Try to eat heavy meals earlier in the evening and make sure to hydrate throughout the day.
6. Get Sunlight During the Day
Natural light helps reset your internal clock, especially after a long flight. Spend time outdoors early in the day to adjust faster and sleep better at night. Getting some sunlight right when you wake up signals to your body that it’s time to start the day.
7. Stretch or Meditate Before Bed
Travel can leave your body tense. Gentle stretching or a 5-minute guided meditation can calm the body and mind, prepping you for restful sleep. If you can stretch in the morning and before bed—that’s even better!
Traveling with kids? Check out our blog about helping them get a good night’s sleep on vacation!
Vacations are meant for recharging, and that includes your sleep. With a little extra planning, you can sleep peacefully—even without your favorite mattress (though we won’t blame you if you miss it). At The Mattress Hub, we believe great sleep should follow you everywhere. Visit one of our stores today to check out our sleep accessories that you can actually bring with you on vacation!
