How to Sleep on Public Transport While Traveling

Some people are naturally lulled to sleep by the hums of a motor and bumps of a road, while others consider these the bane of budget travel! There are a few things you can do to help maximize your chances for rest on public transport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Wool Socks
• Books
• Discman
• Personal Stereos
• Inflatable Pillows
• Eye Masks
• Tapes Or CDs
• Playing Cards
• Earplugs
• Travel Games

1. Carry adequate layers of clothing that you can wear for added warmth when traveling in cool climates or on air-conditioned buses. Your body temperature will drop as you doze, and there is nothing like a cool draft or chilled feet to keep stirring you out of your sleep.
2. Bring an inflatable travel pillow or an additional layer of clothing to use as a pillow. Inflatable neck pillows are good for use when sleeping on an aisle or between other passengers.
3. Use rest stops when they are available, even if you don't think you need to use a bathroom or purchase a snack. A full bladder or empty stomach down the road is bound to keep you uncomfortable and awake.
4. Observe when and how fellow travelers appear to be sleeping. They probably know some tricks of the trade particular to the mode of transportation you are using and the culture you are traveling in.
5. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages and eating sugar. Also avoid alcohol, which may initially make you drowsy, but will ultimately disrupt your sleep pattern, cause you to use the restroom frequently, and dehydrate you.
6. Opt for a portable tape or disc player with a headset to minimize exterior sounds or provide white noise to enable you to sleep.
7. Consider sleeping with ear plugs and an eye mask only if you feel you can adequately judge the safety of your surroundings.
8. Carry plenty of things to entertain you if you can't sleep: books, music, playing cards, travel board games, your journal. Activity may eventually lull you into sleepy land better than closing your eyes and worrying about insomnia.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider taking turns sleeping if you are traveling with a group or partner and feel unsafe in your environment. Knowing that your partner will be awake to watch your belongings and monitor the comings and goings of others will help you rest more soundly.
• Carry your passport and money in a security pouch underneath your clothing. Never sleep with these in your luggage or under your pillow.
• Strap your luggage together and lock it to a luggage rack using a bicycle lock if traveling on transport where theft is a risk. Use a lock on your luggage, handbag or daypack to deter thieves.
• Avoid taking sleeping pills unless you are traveling with a partner who will be alert, and you feel absolutely safe in your environment.