Herbie Murray
Sleeping in a tent can be challenging, but with the right gear and preparation, you can sleep soundly. Firstly, choose a suitable tent with lightweight, breathable materials, multiple windows, and good ventilation. Next, select a sleeping bag with an appropriate temperature rating for your destination and consider adding a sleeping pad for extra comfort. Bring a pillow or an inflatable camping pillow, and if you use a CPAP machine, set it up before dark and keep it safe and warm. Pack breathable and comfortable clothing, such as moisture-wicking layers, a hat, and warm socks. Stay hydrated with water and electrolytes, and consider magnesium supplements to promote better sleep. Wind down before bedtime with a book, deep breathing, or soft music, and if you need to, use earplugs to block out unfamiliar noises. Finally, follow food storage rules to avoid attracting wildlife, and always set up your campsite before dark.
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What You'll Learn
Choose a suitable tent site
Choosing a suitable tent site is an important step in ensuring a good night's sleep while camping. Here are some tips to help you select the best location:
First and foremost, look for a flat surface that is cleared of any sticks, rocks, and pinecones. This will provide a comfortable and safe base for your tent, preventing discomfort and potential damage to your sleeping gear. A durable surface is ideal, especially if you're camping in an area with the potential for sudden weather changes or high winds.
When selecting a spot, consider the surrounding environment. Avoid areas with potential hazards, such as low-lying spots that may collect water in the event of rain or areas with overhanging branches that could pose a risk during strong winds. Also, be mindful of the direction of the sun and try to position your tent to take advantage of any natural shade, especially if you're camping in a warm climate.
If possible, choose a spot that offers some privacy and seclusion. This will not only provide a quieter space but can also help block wind and provide a sense of peace and security. Look for natural barriers like trees or large rocks that can act as windbreaks and provide a sense of enclosure for your campsite.
In addition to natural features, consider the proximity to essential amenities. Being close to a water source and toilet facilities can make your camping experience more convenient and comfortable. If you're camping with others, setting up your tent near communal areas can foster a sense of community and make it easier to access shared resources.
Lastly, be mindful of any specific rules and regulations regarding tent placement. These rules may vary depending on the campsite or region, so it's important to inform yourself beforehand. Following these guidelines will ensure you're respecting the environment and the rights of others while enjoying your camping experience.
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Select the right sleeping bag
Selecting the right sleeping bag is essential for a good night's sleep when camping. The right bag will depend on factors such as the season, your destination, and your sleeping style.
Firstly, consider the temperature rating of the bag. If you're camping in a colder climate, choose a bag with a lower temperature rating to ensure you stay warm. Mummy-shaped bags are ideal for colder climates as they are designed for a closer, warmer fit. They are also usually lighter in weight, making them a good option for backpacking. Conversely, if you're camping in a warmer climate, opt for a bag with a higher temperature rating and consider features such as venting options to prevent overheating.
The style of the sleeping bag is also important. Car camping bags tend to be cut wider, offering more room to move around, which can be more comfortable. Some rectangular styles can even be unzipped and used as quilts on milder nights. However, they may be less efficient at retaining body heat on colder nights. If you're a restless sleeper, you may prefer a wider bag so you can move around more easily. You can also unzip it and use it as a comforter, as mentioned above. On the other hand, if you sleep on your back and don't move around much, a three-quarter-length or mummy-shaped bag might be a better option to retain body heat.
Additionally, consider bringing extra items to enhance your comfort, such as a pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask. Some sleeping bags even have a pocket to hold a pillow or folded-up clothing. Inflatable pillows are lightweight and easily adjustable, while compressible pillows are often softer and more reminiscent of your pillow at home. Earplugs and eye masks can be especially helpful for blocking out unfamiliar noises and lights that may disrupt your sleep.
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Prepare for midnight toilet trips
Preparing for midnight toilet trips is an important part of camping. Here are some tips to make these trips easier:
Plan your camping spot
Before you set up your tent, take a good look at your surroundings. Avoid areas with brambles, thistles, gorse, and especially nettles. Also, be cautious of bracken, heather, and long grass, as they can harbour ticks, especially if there are sheep or deer nearby. Choose a spot that is at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and your campsite. Look for a place with soft soil, near the base of a tree for support.
Prepare a toilet kit
Create a simple toilet kit to ensure you're ready for any midnight calls. Include items like toilet paper, biodegradable wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and a small travel mirror if you're in a tick-prone area. For women, prepare a separate kit for menstrual products, using plastic bags to conceal and dispose of menstrual waste.
Practice proper waste disposal
If you're burying your waste, use a small trowel or shovel to dig a hole that's at least 6-8 inches deep and wide enough to aim for. After you're done, use leaves or all-natural toilet paper to wipe, then toss your waste into the hole and cover it with dirt. Alternatively, use a portable camping toilet, especially if you're camping in a rooftop tent or car. Remember to dispose of your waste properly to minimise environmental contamination.
Make it comfortable
To make your midnight toilet trip more comfortable, bring your pants and underwear down to mid-thigh level to prevent splashback. Assume a wide stance and squat to let your urine stream downhill. If squatting is challenging, lean your back against a tree for support.
Stay calm and relaxed
Unfamiliar noises in the night can be unsettling, especially when nature calls. Remember that small critters can sound larger than they are, so try to relax. If you've securely stored your food and scented items, the chances of attracting wildlife are lower. Keep a pair of sandals or camp shoes near your tent door, along with a headlamp, to make your midnight trip safer and more convenient.
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Use pillows and earplugs
A good pillow is essential for a comfortable night's sleep when camping. You can bring a pillow from home, or use a small foam or inflatable camping pillow. Some people prefer to roll up a jacket or stuff sack to use as a pillow. If you use a sleeping bag, you can place the pillow or your clothing in the sleeping bag's pocket.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea and use a CPAP machine, be sure to set it up before it gets dark outside and place it in a warm and safe spot within the tent.
Earplugs are also important to block out, or at least muffle, unfamiliar noises that might prevent you from falling asleep. These could range from your tent mate's snoring to rustling bushes.
To help you fall asleep, you could try reading a book by the soft light of a lantern, practising deep breathing, or listening to soft music on a pair of headphones.
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Wind down before bed
Wind down before getting into your tent at bedtime by setting aside some time to relax. Choose a relaxing activity, such as reading a book by the soft light of a lantern or a headlamp. If you like to read before sleeping, consider using string lights or a headlamp that emits softer light, such as yellow, orange, or red wavelengths. This is gentler and less obtrusive on fellow campers than blue or white light. Alternatively, you could try meditating in nature, practising a few minutes of deep breathing, or listening to soft music on a pair of headphones.
If you're prone to aches and pains, consider taking a magnesium supplement, which is thought to promote better sleep and prevent cramping. It's also important to stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to poor sleep. Drink plenty of water and consider electrolyte drinks to replace the nutrients lost through sweating during the day.
If you're camping in a cold climate, do some jumping jacks or another form of light exercise to ensure you're warm before you get into your sleeping bag. If you get into your bag while you're cold, it will be difficult to warm up.
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Frequently asked questions
Make sure you pitch your tent on a flat, durable surface cleared of sticks, rocks and pinecones. If you're shopping for a tent that fits multiple people, consider sizing up. Get one with multiple windows, vents, and an adjustable rainfly for fresh air and good ventilation. If you're car camping, you could bring an air mattress, but remember to insulate if it's chilly. A pillow is also important—inflatable pillows are super packable, ultralight, and easily adjustable so you can get the firmness you’re looking for.
Before getting into the tent at bedtime, set aside some time to wind down. Choose a relaxing activity, like reading a book by a lantern’s light, practicing a few minutes of deep breathing, listening to soft music, or sipping tea by the fire. Pee twice before going to bed. Prepare for midnight restroom trips by placing a pair of sandals or camp shoes near your tent door. Pack the right clothing: breathable and comfortable clothes to sleep in, like moisture-wicking layers, a cozy hat, and warm socks.
Earplugs can block out, or at least dampen, unfamiliar outdoor noises. Magnesium supplements are thought to promote better sleep and may also help prevent cramping, which is common after a tough day of backpacking. Avoid alcohol, which can disrupt your sleep quality.
