Don’t Let Vacation Derail Your Rest
Summer is the perfect time to pack your bags, hit the road, and take a well-deserved break. But while travel is great for the soul, it can wreak havoc on your sleep. Long flights, unfamiliar hotel rooms, and jam-packed itineraries often mean disrupted routines and restless nights.
At SleepWell in Lafayette, we understand how essential good sleep is — even (and especially) on vacation. Whether you’re managing a sleep disorder like sleep apnea or just trying to keep your energy up while traveling, here’s how to prioritize healthy rest on the go.
1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule When Possible
Your body thrives on routine. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each day — even on vacation. This helps regulate your internal clock (circadian rhythm) and can reduce jet lag if you’re changing time zones.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flying east, try adjusting your bedtime earlier by 15–30 minutes each night before your trip. If heading west, shift it later.
- Bring Sleep-Friendly Essentials
A few small items can make a big difference in the quality of your sleep while traveling:
- Travel pillow and blanket
- White noise machine or app
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Your oral appliance, if you use one
Don’t forget to pack extra batteries, chargers, or tubing for your sleep device if you’re treating sleep apnea. Staying consistent with your treatment is key, even on vacation.
3. Watch the Caffeine, Alcohol, and Late-Night Snacks
Summer travel often comes with indulgences — and that’s okay! But try to avoid caffeine after 2 p.m., skip heavy meals late at night, and limit alcohol close to bedtime. All of these can disrupt your sleep quality and make it harder to fall or stay asleep.
4. Create a Calm, Sleep-Friendly Environment
Even if you’re in a noisy hotel or Airbnb, you can still create a peaceful space for rest:
- Set the thermostat between 65–70°F, the ideal temperature range for sleep
- Use blackout curtains or clip them shut with clothespins if too much light is coming in
- Turn off screens at least 30 minutes before bed
5. Prioritize Rest as Part of the Trip
It’s easy to overbook your vacation and end up needing a break from your break. Don’t forget: downtime is part of the adventure. Listen to your body, schedule in some quiet mornings or early nights, and make rest just as important as sightseeing.
Traveling With Sleep Apnea?
Don’t skip your treatment. Missing just a few nights with your CPAP or oral appliance can leave you feeling foggy, tired, and irritable. At SleepWell, we help patients prepare for summer travel with tips, equipment guidance, and travel-friendly solutions — so you never have to compromise your sleep (or safety).
Enjoy the Season — and Sleep Well While Doing It
Summer is for making memories, not losing sleep. With a little planning and support, you can enjoy every moment of your trip without sacrificing rest.
Need help managing sleep apnea or prepping for summer travel with a sleep disorder? We’re here to help.
📞 Call SleepWell at (337) 595-5006
📍1601 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508
Mayo Clinic – Sleep Tips: 6 Steps to Better Sleep
Sleep Foundation – Travel and Sleep
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Tips for Better Sleep