January 31, 2023
posted in: Hammock Beginner, Miscellaneous
How to Sleep Well While Camping
Anyone who’s been camping understands the challenges of sleeping well during a trip. From chilly weather to pesky bugs, there are many factors that can keep you from getting the rest you want and need. Below, we discuss how to sleep comfortably while camping to enhance your experience and bring more joy to your time spent outdoors.
Getting the Right Sleep Gear
Getting some rest is key to a wonderful camping excursion. With the right supplies, you can unwind after a long day and enjoy more uninterrupted slumber.
Explore the different types of camping gear that will help you get a good night’s sleep:
1. Hammock
Using a hammock is one of the best ways to sleep while camping. They can offer a comfortable place to rest and keep you off the cold — and sometimes wet — ground. With a hammock, you can enjoy a quick setup in mere minutes. You don’t have to worry about crushing any plants below, and you can pack up the next morning without leaving a trace behind.
Campers can choose from many types of hammocks that include various features, like protective netting to keep bugs out or a top cover to trap warmth. They’re lightweight and easy to pack with you for your camping adventures.
Read tips about hammock sleeping
2. Tent
If you plan on sleeping in a tent, be sure to choose one that’s large enough for you and your crew. Consider the tent’s weight and how much space you’ll need to accommodate everyone. You’ll want to be able to lie down comfortably so you don’t have to sleep in an awkward position.
Choosing a tent that feels secure and can withstand some wind or rain is also highly beneficial.
3. Sleeping Bag
Picking out the right sleeping bag can transform your camping experience. Be sure to consider the overnight temperatures for your trip and choose an option that will offer enough warmth and comfort.
The trick is to find the lightest sleeping bag you can that provides adequate warmth. Backpacking bags are usually shaped for a closer fit that traps heat against the body. If you’re camping somewhere with mild temperatures, you may want to choose a wider option that offers more room for movement.
If you’re using a sleeping bag, you’ll need to either sleep in a tent or prep the ground with a cloth and use a tarp to cover you during the night. However, a bivy bag allows you to sleep out in the open on the ground — no tent or ground cloth necessary.
4. Sleeping Pad and Pillow
A sleeping pad is one of the best things to sleep on while camping. You can find different types, including:
- Air pads
- Self-inflating pads
- Closed-cell foam pads
A sleeping pad can come in handy no matter where you’re sleeping. Double-layer hammocks have a pocket to insert a sleeping pad for extra comfort. You can also use pads to sleep inside your tent. Check out the temperature rating and choose one that suits your camping lifestyle.
Another important piece of sleeping gear is a pillow. Consider bringing one from your home or opting for an inflatable pillow that can easily slip into your backpack when you aren’t using it. An ARGON pillow is another popular option, and you can easily hook it on your ridgeline when you’re not sleeping.
How to Stay Warm Overnight
Maintaining a comfortable body temperature is a priority when spending the night outdoors. Check out a few ways to add some warmth to your bedtime routine and get the best sleep while camping:
- Pack extra layers: As temperatures drop overnight, you’ll need a few additional layers of clothing to stay warm. Clark Hammocks feature different external pockets you can fill with dry leaves or spare clothing items for added insulation and warmth. Wearing long underwear can also help your body retain heat throughout the night.
- Take off damp clothes: Before climbing into your hammock or sleeping bag, be sure to remove any pieces of clothing that are damp. Whether you’re sweating or out in the rain, it’s important to change into dry items to stay warm all night long.
- Eat and drink before bed: Another way to boost your body temperature for a good night’s rest is eating a meal before going to sleep. Consuming warm or calorie-dense foods can help your body generate a little extra heat and stay cozier.
- Keep a warm water bottle close: Campers can stay warm overnight by keeping a warm water bottle near the body. Some experts suggest keeping it by your feet and others advise keeping it near your core, where the body generates most of its heat.
- Get in some movement: Performing small exercises such as sit-ups or jumping jacks before bed is a great way to raise your body temperature before lying down to sleep.
Doing these things can help you enhance overnight comfort and boost the quality of your sleep on your next trip.
8 Additional Tips for Sleeping Well While Camping
In addition to having the right gear and staying warm, there are some other helpful tricks for getting quality shut-eye when spending the night outdoors.
Explore these tips and suggestions for how to sleep while camping:
- Bring bug protection: No one enjoys being woken up by mosquitos and other bugs. Be sure to pack bug repellent and bugnets so you can sleep throughout the night without interruption.
- Stick with a regular bedtime routine: Establishing a routine for winding down before bed can bring you comfort and ease as you prepare to sleep.
- Choose a good campsite: Do some research and find a calm camping zone. You’ll want it to be quiet and relaxing near your campsite as you fall asleep.
- Prioritize security: To get the best night’s rest, choose a location that feels safe regarding wildlife and other campers. Choosing a secure site will help you achieve peace of mind and sleep better.
- Be active throughout the day: Another tip for sleeping while camping is to stay active throughout the day. By the time the sun goes down, you’ll be tired enough to easily drift off into a deep sleep.
- Use the bathroom before sleep: Avoid having to get up and go to the bathroom throughout the night by going before bed. Doing so will save you from having to remove extra layers and disrupt your warmth.
- Store all food away: Make sure all your food items and other odorous materials are carefully packed away so they don’t attract any wildlife to your campsite overnight. Use the bear box at your campsite if applicable.
- Bring your favorite pillow: By bringing your favorite pillow from home, you can add some extra familiarity and coziness to your nighttime camping routine to help you relax.
Browse Hammock Gear From DutchWare Today
If you want to improve your nightly routine on your next camping trip, DutchWare has you covered. We have a wide selection of gear and hammocks that make spending the night in nature easier and more restful. We also have durable hammock tarps and camping hammock hardware to further enhance your outdoor experience.
Browse hammock gear from DutchWare today!
Read These Related Articles
