Travel is great fun, but it can massively mess up your sleep schedule. This is especially true when you factor in different time zones, waking up earlier or staying up later than usual. All of these things can leave you staring at the ceiling unable to drift off to sleep at bedtime.
If you're not opting for an Airbnb, you will probably be staying in either a motel or a hotel. It sounds simple to crash in a hotel at the end of a long day, but studies have found that when people are traveling, there are two things that are at a high risk of happening: food poisoning and sleep deprivation.
Even if you're staying in a luxury hotel or upscale Airbnb, it can be hard to switch off and get your beauty rest. Lucky for you, we're here to help! Here are some of the best tips to ensure you are well-rested on your next trip.
Look Before You Book
This has become easier in recent years, as most hotels have a virtual room tour option that you can view before you book. That way, you know what you're getting into. For example, if you're looking to stay at a Westgate Branson Resort, go online and check out the room type before you book. The last thing you want is to book unsuitable accommodations and start at a disadvantage with getting a good night of sleep.
Make it Feel More Like Home
Do you have a special pillow that you can't sleep without? Are you currently reading a book? Well, make sure to take them along! If you're staying somewhere that reminds you of where you live, your setting yourself up for more familiarity and relaxation when it's time to hit the sack. Be sure to take some small, light items with you on your next trip to help you make the space feel more like your bedroom back at home.
Invest in a Good Pair of Earbuds
Sometimes hotels can be loud, especially if they're in a city or if there's bachelor or bachelorette group staying on the same floor as you. Noise + sleep = Not gonna happen! So, make sure you have a pair of high-quality earbuds, ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones. If you happen to forget this essential, you're in luck! They are easily picked up in most airports, pharmacies and retail stores.
Take a Warm Bath or Shower
If you're finding it hard to relax in your hotel room, it can be worth running a warm bath or taking a hot shower. This will help you relax, calming your mind and muscles. Try playing some spa music in the background on your smartphone to help the mood. After your bath or shower, think about meditating or calming your mind. There are many free apps and videos you can use to help unwind.
No Screentime Before Bed
Avoiding screen time before bed is important if you want to have a restful night's sleep when staying away from home. The blue light emitted by screens on smartphones, tablets, and computers, can interfere with the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Engaging with screens before bedtime stimulates the brain, making it more difficult to relax and fall asleep, which is not what you want if you plan on getting a good night's sleep.
Check the Temperature
For humans, the ideal sleep temperature is 66 °F or 19 °C. So, if you have a hotel room that is too hot or too cold, you'll either be reaching for the covers or kicking them off. Check the thermostat of the room and make it to your liking. You can also dress in sleepwear that have soft and airy material to help regulate your body temperature while you sleep.
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