Guide to getting a good sleep while traveling

If you are like me, sleeping is a bit challenging when traveling. Nothing is as good as your own bed in your own home with familiar surroundings. But vacation is supposed to be relaxing and rejuvenating, how can this be achieved without a good nights rest? Here are a few tips to get a good nights sleep while away from home.

BRING EARPLUGS

You are used to your home and all of the noises it makes. While away, there will be unfamiliar noises such as the furnace/air kicking on, people in rooms next to you or clomping down the hall, ice machines, elevators, staff running around, etc. Do yourself a favor and pack some soft, ear forming earplugs. Without these distractions you should sleep peacefully through the night.

BE PREPARED FOR JETLAG

If you are traveling across time zones be prepared for some serious jetlag. What you DON'T want to do is fill yourself up with caffeine. Instead try to get on local time as soon as possible. This can be done by forcing yourself to stay awake until your "normal" bedtime or go to bed earlier than usual depending on the time difference. Also, set an alarm to wake at a reasonable time for the first day or two (if needed) to help with the process.

KEEP NORMAL BEDTIME ROUTINE

What is your daily process to prepare for bed? Just because you are on vacation doesn't mean that has to change. No matter what you day consists of, make sure to follow the same steps you would if you were at home. It will help your brain process that bedtime is approaching.

UNPLUG

You are on vacation!!! Why do you need to know what your co-workers and friends are doing back home? Get off your socials (unless you are just doing a quick post), leave work at work and enjoy your surroundings. You can catch up quickly when you get home.

DON'T FORGET TO DRINK YOUR WATER

When we travel we tend to drink less water. Top reason travelers do this is because they don't want to be bothered by multiple trips to the bathroom. Also, we tend to drink more alcohol on vacation which dehydrates us. Dehydration is the leading cause for for travel fatigue. Do yourself a favor and make sure to sip on water throughout the day.

No matter what, there is nothing like getting back to your own bed after time away, but in the meantime I hope this provides enough help to allow you to reset and recharge during your travels.

Do you have useful tips? Share them below , I'd love to hear!

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