Sleep and Camping don't have to be mutually exclusive!
When it comes to camping, sometimes sleep is the thing you forget to pack! A good night (with lots of Zzz's) is crucial to maintaining good health and should be a top priority, even when roughing it in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, traditional camping setups can often make sleep while camping and impossible task. We've grown accustomed to our soft beds with lots of pillows, and it's hard to recreate that in the great outdoors!
Ground tents, for example, are a hassle to set up. First, you search for the perfect flat and open space. Then, once you lay down for the night you find the rock or root that you missed jabbing into your back. Or come to find out the ground is a couple of degrees sloping after all, oops! When it comes time to pack up, there you are rolling around in the mud. Been there, done that!
Traditional camping hammocks are another option to improve your sleep while camping, but they can be complicated to set up. They typically require a separate rainfly, bug net, under-quilt , suspension straps, and guy lines, which can be a hassle to assemble into a single kit. Once you climb in, the sensation of being wrapped up like a sushi roll and bent like a banana is so unlike our at-home sleeping experience, sleep is inevitably elusive.
Enter the Haven...
At Haven Tents, we have tried to eliminate these pitfalls and make getting a good night's sleep while camping as easy and comfortable as possible. Our all-in-one hammock tent provides a comfortable and flat sleeping platform, making it more like sleeping in your bed at home than traditional camping options. The system comes with an insulated air mattress to keep the space warm and a rainfly that can be guyed out for ventilation on hot nights. It's also easy to set up and packs up small, making it a convenient option for all sorts of trips. Car camping, moto-camping, backpacking, or backyard outings!
And the best part? The ground doesn't have to be even, so you don't have to worry about rocks or roots under your back or uneven terrain. Plus, in our system won't fold you like a banana like traditional hammocks. See what Bob thought of his first lay in a Haven Tent!
The Importance of sleep while camping
So why is sleeping so important? For starters, sleep allows the body to rest and repair itself. During sleep, the body produces more cells to help repair and regenerate tissues, as well as producing hormones that help to regulate mood and growth. In addition, sleep is essential for maintaining a strong immune system, as it helps the body fight off illness and infection.
But what happens when we don't get enough sleep? The consequences can be serious. Lack of sleep can lead to a range of health problems, including weight gain, decreased immune function, and an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. In the short term, missing out on sleep while camping can lead to irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a lack of coordination, all of which can be dangerous when participating in outdoor activities.
Pro tips for getting that shut-eye
So how can you ensure you get a good night's sleep while camping? Start by packing up your bed and mattress. Ok, that's not an option so we'll pack the next best thing... The Haven Tent provides a comfortable and flat sleeping platform. Kind of like your mattress at home... not exactly, but it's the next best thing! But don't take our word for it, here's Don sharing his experience from his first night in his Haven XL.
Once you know where you are bedding down, another key to logging that REM time is creating a comfortable sleeping environment. This includes bringing along the right bedding, such as a warm sleeping bag or topquilt, and maybe even a pillow for the deluxe experience. Our Insulated Pad does a great job insulating for 3 seasons, but as temperatures start to drop you may consider adding our Insulated Pad Cover for additional comfort. This is the first mattress cover designed specifically for hammock camping. With degrees of insulation based on where your body needs it most.
The rainfly is also a great tool for regulating heat. Lock down one side to block wind or both sides to retain heat. You have so many options with the Haven rainfly! Getting too hot? Guy the rainfly out or roll it up and sleep under the stars!
It's also important to establish a bedtime routine while camping. This can include winding down before bed by reading or engaging in quiet activities, as well as setting a consistent bedtime. It's also a good idea to avoid screens (such as phones or tablets) for at least an hour before bed, as the blue light emitted by these devices can disrupt sleep patterns.
Additionally, it's important to consider the location of your campsite when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. Choosing a spot that is away from loud noises or bright lights can help create a peaceful and quiet sleep environment. It's also a good idea to bring earplugs or a white noise machine to block out any unwanted sounds.
Time to tuck in for the night...
In conclusion, getting a good night's sleep while camping is essential for maintaining good health and having a successful and enjoyable trip. By investing in a comfortable sleeping setup like the Haven Tent, creating a comfortable sleep environment, establishing a bedtime routine, and choosing a peaceful campsite, you can ensure you get the restful sleep you need to make the most of your camping experience. As you pack up for your next adventure, don't forget to bring the Zzz's!
Derek Tillotson
Haven Tents Founder
Images and video for this blog post were shared by actual Haven Tent customers, out doing their thing. If you have some images we'd love to see them! Please send them to us support@haventents.com or tag us on social media! @HavenTents