Everyone needs to get a good night's sleep, but this is especially true when you’ve had a long day on the road and have another — or, perhaps, many more — ahead. But getting some quality shut-eye can be extra challenging when you're sleeping in an RV. The cramped quarters, bumpy roads, and unfamiliar surroundings can be the perfect recipe for a restless night.
But what’s a restless adventurer to do for a better night of sleep in their RV?
Can’t you just find any comfortable mattress and use that in your RV? Well, you could try, but it probably won’t be as great as you might think. Obvious statement is obvious, but RV mattresses are made specifically for RVs. They're typically thinner and lighter than traditional mattresses, making them easier to move around and store. They’re also made with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. So choosing the right mattress for your RV and your sleep preferences is one of the best things you can do.
Nice sheets are also important for a good night's sleep. Even when you’ve got the perfect mattress, sheets that don’t feel right against the skin are not nice to sleep on. RV bedsheets are made from breathable fabrics that will help you stay cool and comfortable through the night. RV sheets are also wrinkle-resistant, so you don't have to worry about them getting bunched up in the middle of the night.
Tips for Choosing the Right RV Mattress and Sheets
- Measure your bed before you start shopping. RV mattresses come in a variety of fairly unique sizes, so it's important to measure your bed to make sure you get a mattress that will fit.
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Consider how you like to sleep. If you're a side sleeper, you'll probably want a mattress that provides good pressure relief for your hips and shoulders. If you're a back sleeper, you'll need a mattress that provides good lumbar support.
- Choose high-quality RV bedding. Sheets for RV mattresses should be made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. They should also, ideally, be wrinkle-resistant and low-maintenance. Laundry woes are the last thing you need to be worrying about on the road.
Pay Attention to Overall Sleep Hygiene
All the typical things one can do to improve sleep at home or anywhere else also apply in an RV.
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Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible. The body likes consistency. Going to sleep and waking up at the same time, regardless of the day of the week, will make it easier to get to sleep and stay asleep.
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Create a relaxing on-the-road bedtime routine. This could include reading a book, listening to calming music, embracing some quiet time, or whatever else you find relaxing.
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Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Both can interfere with sleep (yes, even if alcohol makes you feel sleepy).
- Make sure your RV is dark, quiet, and cool. Darkness and cooler temperatures help to promote the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Noise and light can disrupt sleep, so it's important to minimize them to whatever extent you can.
Follow these tips to get a better night's sleep in your RV and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to explore. And if you’re ready to support your sleep quality with a solution that will last, take a look at our premium selection of comfortable RV mattresses.
