Road Trip Survival: 13 Essentials for Better Sleep on the Go

Road trips are the ultimate blend of adventure and freedom, but let’s face it—they can leave you sleep-deprived and cranky if you don’t prepare well. Whether you’re taking turns driving or planning to sleep overnight in your car, having the right gear can make all the difference between a dreamy road trip and a nightmare on wheels.

Neck pillows and blankets: Never underestimate the power of a good neck pillow and a cozy blanket. Amazon offers a variety of options, from classic wrap-around neck pillows to memory foam designs like Cabeau’s headrest strap-friendly pillow. As for blankets, check out wool military blankets or lightweight puffy blankets from Rumpl for maximum comfort.

Weighted blankets: Feeling road stress? A weighted blanket can be a lifesaver. It’s warm, grounding, and ideal for calming your nerves while you’re trying to catch some Z’s.

Sleep masks and earplugs: Block out the world and doze off faster with a sleep mask, like Brooklinen’s silk option, or noise-canceling earplugs from Loop. A good nap can be an absolute game-changer when you’re a passenger.

Sleeping pads and car mattresses: Planning to sleep in your car? Turn the backseat or trunk into a cozy sleeping nook with Amazon’s flexible sleeping pads or gap-filling mattresses. For truck lovers, AirBedz offers a handy trunk bed air mattress that uses your vehicle’s 12V DC socket for inflation.

SUV tents and rooftop options: Upgrade your road trip sleeping arrangements with SUV tents that attach to your vehicle or rooftop setups like Bass Pro Shops’ fold-out platform tents. These options give you the freedom to sleep under the stars while staying safe.

Double sleeping bags: Whether you’re traveling solo or with a buddy, double sleeping bags offer extra warmth and comfort. Amazon and L.L. Bean have excellent options that cater to all weather conditions.

Window shades and blackout curtains: Privacy is key when sleeping in your car. Invest in window shades or blackout curtains to keep prying eyes out and your vehicle cool during the day.

Supportive seat cushions: Long hours in the car can wreak havoc on your back and hips. Lumbar-support cushions, like those available on Amazon or Purple, ensure you stay comfortable behind the wheel—or in the passenger seat.

Portable fans: For hot summer trips, don’t forget a fan! Amazon’s double headrest fan or Walmart’s clip-on options can keep you cool and comfortable during sticky nights.

Headrest pillows: For passengers—especially kids—headrest pillows can make naps during the ride infinitely better. There’s something for everyone, from adult-friendly designs to kid-sized options that fit around car seats.

With these essentials, you’ll be ready to handle even the longest road trip with ease. Now, all that’s left is to hit the road and enjoy the journey—without sacrificing sleep!