11 Ways to Get Better Sleep When You Travel

Whether traveling for work, visiting family, or relaxing on a beach in some mystical part of the world, sleep can readily be compromised, and a lack of it will produce crankiness and laziness. That, dear reader, is neither fun nor productive. Go over these 11 ways which will ensure enhanced restfulness during such periods. 

1. Noise Canceling Headphones 

This tip holds more significance when it comes to traveling with co-passengers. Factors like a crying baby on an airplane or a talkative stranger on the train may prove to be hazardous for sleep. Avoid such meager obstacles entirely and invest in an efficient pair of this gadget. 

2. Melatonin 

While we discourage the use of pharmaceutical products and sleeping pills to help catch up on a good night’s sleep while traveling, Melatonin is one exception. Since it is a natural hormone that balances and improves your sleep cycle, it is definitely recommended. Do check in with your doctor before though!

3. Travel Wear 

Whether you are traveling by air, road, or train, opt for outfits like sweatpants, t-shirts, warm jackets, and sweaters. Moreover, clothing that is too tight or moderately itchy should be avoided. Give your body some space to breathe in an already cramped vehicle. 

4. Anti-Nausea Pills 

These should always be kept in one’s travel bag. Especially those individuals who are well aware that they suffer from travel sickness must never skip this crucial step. Check with your doctor to be sure this is right for you.

5. Travel Pillows 

Fluffy donuts that several people already carry are the best way to prevent neck cramps and stiffness. These will make you feel as if your head is supported by soft, mushy clouds instead of your spine and muscles. 

6. Eye Masks 

The child in the window seat may not be willing to lower the shutter on an airplane, or the constant stimulation might be preventing you from keeping your eyes shut. That is when these eye masks will come to your rescue. Opt for one made out of cotton to avoid any irritation to the skin around the eyes. 

7. Adjust Sleeping Time 

If you are traveling internationally across time zones, your body may need help adjusting. So accordingly, begin sleeping an hour earlier or an hour later each day preceding travel. This change obviously depends on your destination and the time zone it lies in. 

8. Minimization of Light 

If your travel begins at night and you land at your destination during the day, your body may lose synchronization with your brain, and the daylight may force the former to stay up. This can be prevented by the use of sunglasses or spending more time indoors to create a facade for your body about it still being nighttime. 

9. A Full Stomach 

While many of us might succumb to hunger to avoid the nauseating feeling that accompanies traveling, it is the enemy of sleep. A well-fed individual is much more likely to be well-rested even during a long journey. So make sure to eat well.

10. White Noise 

There are smartphone applications built to produce white noise, which will calm down your nerves and help you sleep. Connect your phone to a pair of headphones or earplugs and let the white noise push you into a blissful nap. 

11. The Window Seat

Unless you are claustrophobic, window seats should be your go-to. The aisle or center seats do not provide the same level of support that window seats do. Lean against the window and, just like that, doze off. 

12. A Pre-Shower

Right before boarding a plane, a bus, or a train, standing under a hot shower will be a real treat. The shower will soothe your nerve fibers and relax any previously constricted muscles. In turn, you will sleep like a baby – free of all worries and stresses.