Getting rest whilst on tour is vital to not burning out. Band tour buses usually have bunks, but there are numerous things you can do to increase the chances of getting a good night’s sleep on-board.
There’s also some unwritten etiquette on-board, to ensure everyone has a pleasant journey.
We’re going to share some handy tips to help you drift off comfortably while touring, but first here’s things you can do to avoid friction in the crew.
What Not to Do
If someone’s bunk curtain is closed then be quiet! It’s more than likely that a member of the team is sleeping. Close doors behind you to minimise noise from other areas of the bus – close not slam!
It’s courteous to keep the bus temperature on the cooler side and consult with the group before making any thermostat adjustments. It’s unwritten within the touring industry that if you’re cold, put on a jumper or an extra pair of socks. Keeping the bus cool can help to prevent the spread of germs, as well as being beneficial to a generally more conductive sleep.
Tips for Sleeping Aboard
Decorate Your Bunk
This isn’t a necessity, but if it helps it helps. You can bring your own bedding to feel more at home. Familiar sheets and pillows can help ease home sickness. You may also benefit from bringing photos of loved ones to have in your space.
Consider bringing a small space humidifier to combat the dry air in bunks, keeping breathing comfortability.
Command hooks may help for glasses wearers to have somewhere to hang them when sleeping.
Sleeping Position
For safety reasons, it’s best to sleep with your toes facing towards the front of the bus. Just so that if, god forbid, there ever was an accident you can minimise the risk of neck injury. Rather your feet take the impact than your head!
Choosing the Right Bunk
Bunk selection can greatly affect your sleep quality on a band sleeper bus. With top and bottom bunks available, it’s essential to choose wisely. Bottom bunks are easily accessible and more stable but can be noisier due to their proximity to the road. Top bunks, while they sway more, can be soothing for some. However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s best to opt for a bottom bunk to avoid discomfort from the bus’s movement.
General Tips for Better Sleep on Sleeper Buses
- Use Earplugs and Eye Masks: Block out noise and light to create a peaceful sleeping environment.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water throughout the day, but limit intake before bed to avoid night-time disruptions.
- Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens an hour before sleeping to avoid disrupting your sleep cycle.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind before bed.
By following these tips, you create the highest chance of a rest filled journey whilst keeping other crew members happy.
View our sleeper buses to have an idea of what the bunks will look like. Any questions, just ask!
For more tips on making the most of your sleeper coach experience, stay tuned for our sleeper bus travels updates. Safe travels and sweet dreams!
