How to get your zzz’s in an RV
While an RV trip initially means many hours of driving to get to your destination, there will be plenty of opportunities for outings along the way. If you’re more adventurous, this can mean hiking, bike rides, boating, and other outdoor activities that use plenty of energy. Even driving can wear you out.
You’d think falling asleep would be easy, but for some, it can be difficult to nod off. Sometimes it’s because the mattress isn’t what you’re used to. Or maybe the sun comes up way earlier than you want to be awake. So, how can you get the rest you need to be alert when driving or maintaining enough energy for everything you want to do on your trip?
Here are 7 tips for getting enough shuteye during an RV trip
1. Invest in a good mattress
Your bed at home probably has a great mattress, right? So don’t neglect the mattress in your RV. A lumpy mattress or one that’s too hard or too soft can leave you feeling like grumpy Momma and Papa bear the next morning. Plus, if you have any back or joint problems, a bad mattress can leave you in too much pain to enjoy much of anything. Many RVs do come with good mattresses, but you may still need to upgrade to something that fits your needs better.
2. Invest in good sheets and pillows
Along with an upgraded mattress, you may also want to buy good sheets and pillows. Scratchy, uncomfortable sheets will make it harder to fall asleep, while a pillow that is lumpy or doesn’t provide adequate support will leave you with a sore neck and a cranky disposition. You’ll want to wash all new sheets and pillowcases before heading out on a trip, of course.
3. Seek out a quieter campground
Some people need absolute silence to fall asleep. Maybe you’re one of them. Crowded campgrounds mean a lot of people and they may be on a different sleep schedule than you. If there are kids around or a group of campers that like to party late at night, you will be up listening to the merriment. Although it’s not always possible to know which campground will be quieter, you can ask. You can also request a campsite that is more removed from the main action. If a quieter campground isn’t an option, consider buying a noise ambient machine or earplugs to drown out or muffle sounds from outside.
4. Consider getting blackout curtains for the windows
Mother Nature has her own schedule, and she doesn’t care if you like to sleep in. Sunlight streaming in the windows can wake you up way earlier than you’d like. You might be one of those who can’t sleep if even a sliver of light peeks through. If you have this problem, investing in good blackout curtains may be a necessity.
5. Turn off your devices at night
Here’s a suggestion that might surprise you, especially if you use electronic devices to fall asleep. While we all love using our TVs, computers, smart devices, and e-readers to watch movies, surf the net, check social media, and read, too much screen time at night can actually keep you awake. Why? The blue light and strobe effect of your average device tricks the brain into thinking that it’s still daytime. It is recommended that you turn off all electronic devices at least an hour before going to bed. This will give your brain a chance to “power down” so you can drift off.
6. Keep to the same sleep schedule
When we go on vacation, most of us think it’s a great opportunity to sleep in. We also tend to stay up later since we don’t have to get up early for work the next morning. However, if you want to get adequate sleep, it’s better to stick with the same schedule you keep at home. Your body has an “internal clock” that wants you to go to sleep and wake up at the same time, no matter where you are. Anytime you change that cycle, you mess up your body’s schedule, leaving you feeling groggy all the time.
7. Set your RV’s levelers
Your rig’s levelers and stabilizers will keep your RV from rocking whenever someone gets up during the night. While some people might find the rocking motion soothing, others will be jolted wake each time.
Getting adequate sleep is essential if you want to get the most out of your RV vacation. Follow these tips to help you nod off, so you can stay in tip-top shape while you’re on the road. For more helpful tips, become an RV Advisor Member today.
