Get the best night’s sleep under the stars with this one tip
Key Points:
- Camping expert reveals a simple hack to improve your sleep on camping trips
- Expert explains the importance of pitching your tent on flat ground and positioning it away from the wind, along with additional tips for a good night’s sleep
- Expert shares tips on what to look for when booking a campsite
The approach of spring and summer means it’s time to crack out the tents and prepare for adventures under the stars! However, one thing many campers struggle with when kipping outdoors is getting a full, restful night’s sleep.
Whether you’re cosy in a quiet countryside campsite or catching a few quick z’s at a festival, getting comfortable in your sleeping bag can be a real challenge. Fortunately, Andy Halliday from Lexrope, a UK-based company specialising in outdoor camping gear and accessories, has a simple trick that will help make your camping experience far more relaxing.
The Simple Camping Hack For A Better Night’s Sleep
“The key to a better night’s sleep while camping is to focus on where and how you pitch your tent,” says Andy. “This sounds simple, but the right setup can make a huge difference.”
The trick? “Always pitch your tent on flat ground, and position it so that the entrance is not facing into the wind,” Andy says.
Andy explains why this hack works: “Sleeping on a slope can lead to your body sliding around in the night or getting all bunched up in one corner of your tent. Choosing a flat, even spot lets you avoid that discomfort.
“Additionally, pitching your tent with the entrance facing away from the wind keeps you warm by preventing cold air from blowing directly into the tent,” he adds.
Other Top Tips For A Good Night’s Sleep While Camping
“Here are a few other tips to help you sleep better when camping,” Andy says.
1. Choose The Right Sleeping Bag
Even if your tent is set up perfectly, Andy says choosing the right sleeping bag for the conditions is still important.
“If you’re camping in warmer weather, you won’t need a thick winter sleeping bag,” he says. “A bag that’s too warm can make you overheat, while one that’s too thin can leave you shivering.”
2. Keep The Tent Entrance Closed
“This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to forget, especially on warmer nights,” says Andy. “Many people forget how much temperatures drop after sunset and get caught out by how cold their tent has suddenly become. Keeping the entrance to your tent zipped up helps retain heat and also keeps insects and other creatures out.”
3. Bring Earplugs Or A White Noise Device
Sleeping outside is often noisy, whether it’s the sounds of animals in the night or the wind rustling through the trees.
Andy explains that if you’re a light sleeper, earplugs are a lifesaver.
“Alternatively, some campers find that playing calming sounds on a Bluetooth speaker or through comfortable headphones can help drown out external noises and lull them to sleep,” he adds.
4. Avoid Napping In The Tent During The Day
It may be tempting to nap in your tent during the day, but this can backfire, especially in the warmer months.
“If the sun is shining, your tent will quickly become a hotbox,” says Andy. “Some unlucky campers have suffered heatstroke after napping in a hot tent, so this is no joke. If you want a relaxing midday nap, I’d suggest finding a shady spot outside instead.”
5. Check Your Tent For Issues Before You Go
Nothing ruins a camping trip like a leaky tent!
“To avoid dealing with a broken or damaged tent on arrival, it’s a good idea to set it up and check for any problems before you head out,” Andy says. “That way, if there’s a tear or issue with the zippers, you can address it before you’re out in the wilderness.”
Andy Halliday from Lexrope commented:
“When choosing the location for your camping trip, look for a campground that offers natural protection from the elements, such as areas with trees or slight hills that can shield you from the wind.
“It’s also important to think about the surroundings; a peaceful, quiet location away from high-traffic paths or noisy roads will reduce disturbances. When booking, have a look at where your potential campsites are on a map or use a program like Google Earth to make sure you won’t be hearing road noise all night.
“Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, consider the overall layout inside your tent. Make sure that you’ve got room for all your gear and enough space for a comfortable sleeping arrangement. Setting up your camp properly can make all the difference between a restless night and a relaxing one, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful and comfortable sleep under the stars.”
