If you’re heading to a Christian camping festival this summer, you’ll need these expert tips for getting a good night’s sleep in a tent

For many Christians, summer brings with it the highly anticipated – and somewhat dreaded – church holiday. Some churches arrange their own in house event, others join one of the large co-ordinated festivals like New Wine or Focus. The vast majority of these excursions have something in common – they involve sleeping in a tent.

Getting your eight hours while camping is often a near impossible feat and people head home from their extended time of worship and fellowship, absolutely knackered. Exhaustion is pretty inevitable but there are some things you can do to maximise your rest.

Sleep experts at MattressNextDay have a list of handy hacks for those who just can’t seem to get shut eye during the festivals and they involve making just a few preparations and adjustments that could make all the difference.

Use earplugs and wear an eye mask

This might be the simplest solution to your sleeping problems, as earplugs help you shut out the surrounding hubbub of laughter and shouting at the campsite. Another thing that can disturb your sleep is the early morning sunlight. Prevent being woken up prematurely by wearing an eye mask that will block out the light.

Listen to a relaxing podcast or playlist

Sometimes the best way to shut out the noise is to get your mind off it by listening to a sleep-inducing podcast or playlist. Ease into deep slumber with sounds or stories that calm down your racing brain.

Get good sleep equipment

A good quality sleeping mat is something that’s worth investing in because camping fields are not perfectly flat, and unless you have a good mattress you’ll be feeling every lump and bump on the ground. A comfortable sleeping bag is also very important because nights can get cold even during the summer.

Choose a good location to pitch your tent

Get to the camping area early to scope out a prime tent spot. Pitching your tent in a good location makes a huge difference to your sleep quality. Keep in mind to avoid walkways or toilets. If possible, find a flat spot that’s in the shade.

Pack well

As mentioned previously, summer nights can get quite chilly so make sure you pack some warm clothes. Although a good sleeping mat will help against the cold ground, you should also take extra jumpers and socks to make sure you won’t struggle to fall asleep because you’re cold.

Have a nap during the day

If you didn’t get enough sleep during the night then you can get your beauty kip during the day when everyone will be at the festival ground and the camping area will be emptier. Find a time in the schedule when none of your favourite artists are on and have a quick power nap.

A spokesperson for MattressNextDay said: “Sleeping at a camping area can be an overwhelming experience, especially for the firsttime festival goers. The environment at a campsite does not create favourable conditions for a good night’s sleep, so you may have to take matters into your own hands, with our tips, to ensure you wake up well rested.”