How To Get A Good Night's Sleep While Overlanding

0 comments Oct 10, 2022

Imagine picking the best destination for your Overland adventure and packing all the essentials to make the trip go as smoothly as possible, only to end up not enjoying the excursion because you’re unable to sleep at night. 

Getting a restful sleep should be at the top of your priorities when you go Overlanding, alongside prepping your vehicle with a roof rack and packing food and safety gear. 

Sleep lets you recharge physically and mentally. It also enhances your body’s ability to fight off illnesses, which is even more critical when you are outdoors and exposed to different types of elements. 

Besides, quality sleep puts you in a good disposition so you can better enjoy your trip. 

7 Ways To Get A Good Night’s Sleep While Overlanding

Sleep better so you can enjoy your time outdoors more. 

Here are seven different ways you can get a good night’s rest while Overlanding: 

1. Invest In Quality Sleeping Gear.

It's hard enough to fall asleep in a new place without having to worry about how comfortable you are. While you can setup a tent on the ground, a rooftop tent will be warmer and more comfortable. The roof rack of your car will secure the tent in place. This is one of the many reasons why getting a good roof rack for your vehicle is a worthwhile investment. 

If you’re worried about space, get expandable rooftop tents such as the Nomadic 3 Extended Vehicle Roof Tent.

It comes with an extra double insulated blanket for added space, a removable storage loft, and a breathable window and door mesh. Another ergonomic tent is the Wanaka 55 Roof Top Tent Setup.

It comes with an extra wide annex room with a removable floor, a condensation mat, and a sky view window so you can fall asleep watching the stars. 

2. Follow Your Bedtime Routine As Much As You Can.

Sure, there can be limitations to following your bedtime routine when you’re camped out in a remote area and sleeping on top of your car. Still, you have to stick to some of your bedtime rituals as much as you can. For instance, you can take a shower, brush your teeth, meditate, or read a book before hitting the sack, just as you would if you were at home. 

3. Store And Organize Your Things.

Securing your things in a roof rack during the trip is one thing. Keeping your things organized throughout the trip is another. It will help you rest well if you know things are where they should be. More importantly, it will keep animals from tracking your camping site if your food has been stowed properly. Store your food in a cooler or airtight containers. Change out of the clothes that you cooked in and put them safely in a sealable bag. 

4. Protect Yourself From Bugs.

Expect to deal with mosquitoes and other pesky bugs when you go Overlanding. Make sure that your tent is free from holes and consider bringing a mosquito net. Lather on mosquito and bug repellant lotion or body oil. Wear long-sleeve pajamas so you can cover up and deter insect bites.

5. Bring Earplugs And An Eye Mask.

The sound of nature can be unnerving for some people. If you need silence to fall asleep, make sure to pack some earplugs to help you doze off. On the other hand, eye masks make you feel calmer by blocking out light so you can nod off faster.

6. Make Sure There’s Enough Ventilation.

People, heaters, and a lack of ventilation can make the air in the tent warm and sticky. Create a comfy atmosphere by ensuring there is good ventilation inside the tent. Get a condensation mat and keep the rainfly's vents open, especially the ones that are opposite each other for cross ventilation. 

7. Avoid Consuming Excessive Sweets Or Liquids Before Bedtime.

Excessive amounts of sugar will keep you up at night. Although it is important to stay hydrated during the day, drinking too much water before bedtime can be disruptive. If you don't want to wake up at night, don't drink water or other drinks at least two hours before bedtime. 

Final Thoughts 

Sleeping under the stars sounds idyllic—until you find yourself tossing and turning instead. Follow these seven steps on how to get a good night’s rest while Overlanding.