How to Sleep Well in a Tent (Even if You Hate Camping)

For many, the idea of camping conjures up fond memories of toasted marshmallows, campfire songs and waking up to birdsong in the crisp morning air. For others, however, it means an uncomfortable night spent tossing and turning on uneven ground, listening to every rustle outside the tent and longing for the comfort of their own bed. If you’re in the latter group, you’re not alone.

At UKSN, we know that a good night’s sleep can make or break any outdoor adventure. Whether you’re joining one of our community camps, attending an event or simply enjoying a weekend in nature with your Charter, sleeping well is vital for enjoying the experience. The good news? With the right preparation and a few simple tricks, you can actually wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead – even in a tent.

Why Sleeping Well Outdoors Matters

A poor night’s sleep affects more than just your mood. It can sap your energy, dampen your enthusiasm and even make outdoor activities feel like hard work. When you’re tired, you’re also more likely to make mistakes, which isn’t ideal when you’re busy exploring the countryside, cooking over a fire or helping set up camp. Sleeping well means you’ll get the most out of your adventure and feel confident, comfortable and capable – exactly what UKSN is all about.

Choose the Right Tent and Pitch

It might sound obvious, but where and how you pitch your tent has a huge impact on how well you’ll sleep.

• Find level ground: Always pitch your tent on the flattest ground you can find. Avoid slopes – you’ll only slide during the night – and clear away any stones, sticks or lumps that could dig into your back.

• Think about drainage: If rain is forecast, look for slightly higher ground to avoid waking up in a puddle. A footprint or groundsheet under your tent adds extra protection against damp.

• Face the entrance wisely: Position your tent so the entrance faces away from the wind. Not only will this help keep it warmer and quieter, but you’ll also reduce draughts that can make sleeping uncomfortable.
  

Invest in a Good Sleeping System

Your sleeping system is the biggest factor in how comfortable you’ll be overnight. Don’t skimp here – the right kit is worth its weight in gold.

• Sleeping mat or airbed: A decent sleeping mat or camping airbed adds insulation and cushioning between you and the ground. Inflatable mats are lightweight and compact, while self-inflating mats offer extra comfort with minimal effort.

• Sleeping bag: Pick a sleeping bag suited to the season. A three-season sleeping bag is a great all-rounder for UK camping from spring through autumn. Make sure it’s long enough to cover you fully, and consider a mummy-shaped bag for better heat retention.

• Pillow: Don’t underestimate the power of a pillow. A compact camping pillow or even a rolled-up jumper inside a pillowcase can make a huge difference.

• Extra blankets: If you’re prone to feeling the cold, pack an extra blanket or two. Fleece blankets are lightweight and cosy, perfect for adding a bit of warmth when temperatures drop at night.

Dress Smart for Bed

Sleeping well outdoors is all about staying warm but not too warm. The key is layering.

• Wear clean clothes: Changing into fresh clothes for bed helps keep your sleeping bag clean and prevents moisture from the day’s activities making you chilly overnight.

• Avoid overdressing: It’s tempting to pile on layers, but too many clothes can make you sweat, which actually makes you colder. Instead, wear a thermal base layer and warm socks, and keep a hat handy for chilly nights.

Master the Art of Temperature Control

One of the biggest sleep disruptors in a tent is the temperature. It’s easy to get too cold or too warm.

• Ventilate your tent: Condensation is a common camping annoyance. To avoid waking up damp, make sure your tent is well ventilated. Open vents slightly to allow air to circulate.

• Hot water bottle: On really cold nights, fill a water bottle with hot water and tuck it into your sleeping bag before bed. It’ll warm things up nicely.

• Sleep close to others: If you’re camping with family or friends, sleeping closer together helps share body heat – just make sure everyone is comfortable with this!

Block Out the Noise

Rustling leaves, hooting owls, distant traffic – when you’re not used to the sounds of the outdoors, they can keep you wide awake.

• Use earplugs: A simple pair of foam earplugs can help dull the noise enough for you to drift off.

• White noise: Some people swear by playing soft background sounds to mask the rustles and creaks of the outdoors. A white noise app on a low volume can do wonders.

Keep the Bugs at Bay

No one sleeps well when they’re sharing their tent with uninvited insect guests.

• Zip up properly: Always keep your tent zipped closed. Even a small opening can be an invitation to mosquitoes and other insects.

• Insect repellent: A quick spritz around the entrance and on exposed skin can help deter midges and mosquitoes. Make sure to use a repellent that’s safe for outdoor use and family-friendly.

• Light placement: Keep your torch or lantern away from the tent entrance when you’re getting in and out to avoid attracting bugs inside.

Stay Organised

Tripping over your own gear in the middle of the night is a sure-fire way to disrupt your sleep.

• Pack smart: Before you settle down, keep essentials like a torch, water bottle, tissues and a jumper within easy reach.

• Tidy up: Make a habit of putting shoes, bags and gear back in the same spot every night. It’ll save you rummaging around in the dark.

Get Into a Relaxing Routine

Just like at home, a calming bedtime routine helps signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

• Unplug: Leave screens alone for at least 30 minutes before bed. Instead, enjoy a chat by the campfire, read a book or simply listen to the sounds of nature.

• Warm drink: A cup of caffeine-free tea or hot chocolate is a comforting way to get ready for sleep. Just don’t overdo it if you don’t fancy midnight trips to the loo!

• Stretch it out: Gentle stretches can ease any aches from the day’s activities and help your muscles relax before bed.

Stay Safe and Secure

Feeling safe is crucial to sleeping well outdoors.

• Check your surroundings: Familiarise yourself with the area before dark. Know where your torch is, where the nearest loo or water source is and who’s around.

• Secure the tent: Always close the tent properly before bed and store any food away from your sleeping area to avoid attracting wildlife.

• Stick together: If you’re part of a UKSN Charter camp, check in with your fellow members. A friendly word or two before bed can reassure everyone that all’s well.

Embrace the Adventure

Sometimes, the biggest barrier to a good night’s sleep under canvas is your mindset. If you’re fixated on how different it feels to your bed at home, you’re more likely to notice every little discomfort.

Try to embrace the novelty of it instead. Notice the fresh air, the sounds of nature and the sense of freedom that comes with sleeping outdoors. Remind yourself why you’re there – whether it’s building skills, spending quality time with family and friends or simply reconnecting with nature.

Top Tip: Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to camping or have struggled to sleep well in the past, practise at home first. Set up your tent in the garden or even try sleeping in a sleeping bag indoors. This helps you figure out what works for you before you venture further afield.

Join UKSN for Stress-Free Camping

Remember, you don’t have to tackle camping alone. With over 3000 members, UKSN is a supportive community that shares tips, advice and encouragement to help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably. Our events and Charters give you a chance to meet like-minded people, learn new skills and gain confidence in your outdoor abilities – all while making memories that last a lifetime.

So, whether you’re planning your first family camp or looking to get more involved with bushcraft and self-sufficiency, sleeping well is just the beginning. Pack smart, plan ahead and embrace the adventure. Before you know it, you might just find yourself drifting off to sleep with a smile on your face, dreaming of your next UKSN adventure.

Ready to give camping another go? Join UKSN today and discover just how comfortable a night under canvas can really be.