Traveling can be a stressful endeavor for anyone, which can make it difficult to get high-quality sleep during your travels. Here are some tips to minimize stress and help promote better sleep so you can feel rested and refreshed while you travel.
Try To Reduce Pre-Travel Stresses
Traveling any length of time or distance can be full of stressors, including the time leading up to your travels. Minimizing stress before you travel can help promote better sleep preceding your trip and during your travels. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your trip, and don’t save important tasks like packing for the last minute. You should also give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport or station early to avoid excessive stress before your flight or other transport, which is a good opportunity to get some extra rest.
Minimize Disruptions
Sleeping on a plane, train, or even in a foreign hotel can be full of distractions and noises to keep you awake. From noisy neighbors to fear of sleeping in an unfamiliar place, there can be several factors that affect your state of mind and distract you from sleep. Fortunately, there are tools we can use to minimize these distractions and promote sleep.
Consider bringing a pair of noise-canceling headphones with you during your transport. These can help block out noise while providing comfort with your favorite white noise, calming music, or sleep meditations. Ear plugs and eye masks can also help block surrounding distractions and inconsistent lighting, which can throw off your circadian rhythm.
Pack Travel Sleep Accessories
In addition to eye masks and noise barriers, there are other accessories that can help promote sleep during your travels.
Not all airlines, trains, and buses will provide travel pillows, so bring a compact pillow along if your goal is to sleep during your travel time. Packing an extra blanket will help you maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature during your travels or when you arrive at your hotel. If you’re comfortable using sleeping pills and other over-the-counter sleep aids, be sure to pack these in your luggage if you have trouble sleeping.
Take Melatonin
Melatonin is a helpful supplement for promoting sleep at home or during your travels. This supplement can be especially useful when you’re fighting jet lag or trying to re-sync your sleep schedule with your destination’s time.
Getting enough sleep is crucial when you travel, no matter the distance or how long your trip is. This is why you should always prepare with these tips to promote better sleep during your travels. Limiting stress, packing the right sleep accessories, and minimizing distractions will all help you feel rested and refreshed during your journey.
