My Top 4 Backpacking Sleep Hacks (That Nobody Knows About)

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares four simple, cost-free hacks to help campers get a better night’s sleep in the backcountry. These tips include inflating your sleeping pad to the right pressure, packing extra layers to stay warm, using a balaclava for both warmth and noise/light blocking, and creatively leveling your sleeping pad with extra gear. The speaker emphasizes that these hacks are easy to implement and can significantly improve sleep quality during outdoor adventures, helping campers wake up feeling rested and ready for the next day on the trail.

Takeaways

• 😀 Adjust your sleeping pad's air pressure to avoid it being too firm or too soft. Let some air out for better comfort.
• 😀 Sit on your sleeping pad to check the pressure: if your body sinks in comfortably, it’s the right firmness.
• 😀 Packing extra socks and dry base layers can help you stay warm and dry, especially if your clothes get damp while hiking.
• 😀 Putting on dry socks before going to bed will help you fall asleep faster and feel warmer.
• 😀 A balaclava or hood can help block out noise, act as a sleep mask, and keep your head warm while you sleep.
• 😀 A balaclava provides both warmth and sensory isolation, making it easier to fall asleep even in noisy or bright environments.
• 😀 Use your extra gear, like a down jacket, to level out your sleeping pad for more comfort during the night.
• 😀 Rolling off the side of an unlevel pad can disturb your sleep—use extra gear to ensure your pad stays level and supports your body.
• 😀 Backcountry campsites are rarely perfectly flat, so leveling your sleeping pad with extra clothing or gear ensures better sleep.
• 😀 These tips are free and easy to implement, helping you create a comfortable sleeping system for backcountry camping.

Q & A

What is the first tip for getting a better night's sleep in the backcountry?

The first tip is to avoid overinflating your sleeping pad. Most people inflate their pad too much, making it feel like a rock. Instead, inflate it, let some air out, and check the pressure by sitting up. If your butt touches the ground, the pad is at the right firmness for comfort.

Why is it important to avoid overinflating your sleeping pad?

Overinflating your sleeping pad can make it too hard to sleep on, leading to discomfort. The ideal firmness allows your body to sink in slightly, which provides support and prevents your shoulders or other body parts from touching the ground.

What is the purpose of packing extra clothes like socks or thermals?

Packing extra clothes, such as dry socks or thermals, helps warm you up quickly when your clothes get damp from hiking or sweating. Changing into dry base layers before bed ensures you feel warmer and more comfortable, helping you fall asleep faster.

How can wearing a balaclava or hood improve your sleep?

Wearing a balaclava or hood provides two benefits: it insulates your ears from wind and noise, helping you sleep through disturbances, and it acts as a sleep mask, blocking out light. This can create a more restful and warmer sleeping environment, especially in cold conditions.

Can you use a balaclava even in warm weather?

Yes, even in warmer conditions, a balaclava can be helpful. It provides insulation for your ears and helps block out light. The warmth it provides also contributes to better sleep, as you won’t lose as much heat through your head.

What is the fourth tip for a better night's sleep?

The fourth tip is to level your sleeping pad using extra gear like a down jacket or spare clothes. Many campsites are uneven, and using soft items under your pad will prevent you from rolling off and ensure a more stable and comfortable sleeping surface.

Why is leveling your sleeping pad important?

Leveling your sleeping pad is crucial because an uneven surface can cause you to roll off during the night, disrupting your sleep. By using extra gear to create a stable base, you can avoid uncomfortable positions and enjoy a more restful night.

What kind of extra gear can you use to level your pad?

You can use items like a down jacket, extra clothes, or any soft gear you have. Tuck these under the edges of your sleeping pad to create a flat, even surface, helping prevent the discomfort of rolling off during the night.

Do these sleep hacks require any special gear or purchases?

No, these hacks are designed to be free and use only the gear you already bring on your trip. The tips focus on adjusting your existing gear—like your sleeping pad and extra clothes—for better comfort without the need for extra purchases.

How can you check if your sleeping pad is properly inflated?

To check if your sleeping pad is inflated correctly, sit up, lift your feet and elbow off the pad, and try to touch the ground with your butt. If it makes contact with the ground, the pad has the right firmness. If not, you may need to deflate it slightly.