When it comes to sleep, there is nothing better than the comfort of your own bed. The majority of people tend to sleep the best at home. Adults function their best when they have a good 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Traveling and sleep can be a tricky combination for some. While many find they get more sleep at a hotel or on a vacation, surprisingly a large number of people have trouble sleeping away from home in a new environment.
So what can you do to sleep well when you are traveling?
Bring Items From Home
Make your new sleep environment similar to your home. Sometimes your body has trouble falling asleep due to the unfamiliarity of where you are. Bringing items from home that you normally sleep with can help tremendously. Take your favorite blanket and pillow, bring your sleep mask or your sound machine. Whatever it is that aids your sleep on a daily basis, take it with you. This is sure to make you feel like you are at home.
Promote Sleep
Prepare yourself for sleep by winding down the right way. Don't drink caffeine close to bedtime and never exercise right before bed. Do things that will get you relaxed before you lay down. Take a hot bath, read a book or listen to quiet music. Try to clear your mind of the days activities or what is happening the next day. As hard as it may be, try to stay away from looking at your phone or tablet and do not fall asleep with the television on. Studies show that the lights from these devices can disturb your sleep pattern.
Try to Go to Bed at Your Normal Time
It may be hard when traveling but if possible try to lay down at your normal bed time. Your internal clock will be ready to fall asleep if you stick to the same pattern. Turn the lights off and get comfy, sleep is sure to come. If you cannot fall asleep right away, avoid looking at the clock. Staring at the time and seeing how long you are awake will only create anxiety. Cover the clock up and RELAX.
Medication
As a last resort, if you are truly unable to sleep after trying these suggestions, you may need to take a sleeping aid while traveling. Many people need a little more help and sleeping pills are fine, as long as they are not used on a regular basis. There are many effective over the counter medications that you may want to try. If you seem to have a more serious issue sleeping and have to travel often, it may be worth talking to your doctor about.
Don't spend your time away tossing and turning. Try these tips and enjoy your travel time. Most of all, try to stay calm at the end of the day and unwind. Sweet dreams and have a great trip!
