How to Boost Your Sleep Quality in an RV

Here are some great tips on getting the best sleep quality in your RV

How to Boost Your Sleep Quality in an RV
By Katie Phillips

The RV life brings freedom, but it can also brings some noisy neighbors just when you're ready to call it a day. To make sure you're getting a full seven to nine hours of sleep, we've got some RVing sleep tips to help you close your eyes and rest easy. 

Pick Your Site with Care

If you've been RVing for long, you probably already know that not all campsites are created equally. Some campers are considerate of their neighbors while others are not. Try to arrive early in the day so you've got time to pick a secluded spot or one that at least gives you some distance between you and your closest neighbor.

Take the Time to Level Off

Whether you're sleeping uphill or down, the discomfort of an incline can wake you up throughout the night. Your blood will pool if the angle is too extreme and no one likes to keep adjusting because they're listing to one side. Take a few extra minutes to make sure the RV is level before calling it a night. 

Block Out Light

Light can be a serious sleep disruptor. High-efficiency (HE) light bulbs that emit blue light suppress sleep hormones as do some electronic devices like televisions, smartphones, and iPads. Replace your HE light bulbs with incandescent and shut off your devices at least two to three hours before bed. You may also want to invest in blackout fabric to back your curtains or simply buy blackout curtains so that no matter who your neighbor is or what campsite you're in, you can control the light levels.

Invest in a Mattress Upgrade 

When it comes to sleep, comfort is key. Not all RV's come with a great mattress. If you're navigating lumps and valleys or if support is non-existent (you can feel the foundation underneath), invest in a mattress that's comfortable for your weight and sleep style. For stomach sleepers, that's a model with more support while side sleepers need a model that conforms to their shape. 

Be Prepared for Noise

We've already talked about picking your site but sometimes noise can't be avoided. In that case, it's best to be prepared. Earplugs are an inexpensive solution. If you don't like how they feel or they may fall out while you sleep, static from the radio, a white noise app, or a white noise machine are all easy options that can keep passing traffic or noisy neighbors from waking you. 

Control the Temperature

Your body temperature drops at the onset of sleep. Room (or RV) temperatures above 68 degrees or below 60 degrees can interfere with your body's ability to maintain the ideal temperature. Air conditioning, a fan, and your heater are the best defense to keep the temperature in the comfort zone. However, if you're dealing with high outdoor temperatures, try positioning a fan to blow over a bowl of ice for a natural air conditioner and keep a water bottle loaded with cold water nearby.

Conclusion

The kind of conditions you need for good sleep in an RV are no different than those you need in a house. How you achieve those conditions, however, is different. With a few small changes and preparation, you'll be set to get a full night's rest so you can enjoy everything your destination has to offer. 

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