Last updated on October 17, 2026
During travel, you’re not immersed in your regular routine. You’re not taking your multi-vitamins, you’re exposing yourself to germs, you’re eating less-than-healthy foods, you’re not engaging in your regular fitness routine, you’re on the go constantly, and as a result you’re not getting the ZZZs you usually do. All this adds up to a weakened immune system that can leave you vulnerable to sickness. But that’s not all: without the proper rest on vacation, you’re putting yourself at risk for falling asleep at the wheel, as well as daytime fatigue and even memory problems. Here are some reasons why rest is so important while traveling, whether for business or pleasure.
The Importance of Rest
Because vacation doesn’t always mean relaxation, you’ve probably got a big agenda to cover, from seeing monuments and museums to taking in shows and going on rides. Even if you’re on business, you have a big day ahead of you with all-day conventions, meetings and client dinners. You don’t have time to be sidelined by a cold or the flu. The restorative effects of sleep are therefore very important. The National Institutes for Health (NIH) says your health and well-being are dependent on adequate sleep. Getting plenty of sleep helps preserve both your mental and physical health, along with your safety and quality of life. Why? When you sleep, your brain is repairing itself and making neural connections necessary to support growth and development. This is especially so in young people. This means that, in addition to getting enough rest, you complement that with washing hands frequently to avoid germs that can make you sick, taking your regular multi-vitamins and fitting in exercise where you can. If you do get sick, get medical attention immediately to curb further symptoms. Be sure to visit an urgent care clinic in Pearland for high-quality medical attention.
What Contributes to Poor Sleep?
There are lots of reasons why you may not get the quality sleep you deserve while on vacation. The hotel room you’re staying in could be to blame. USA Today says that most people sleep best in a familiar environment that is sufficiently, dark, quiet and not too hot. If you’d prefer to be sleeping in your own bed, you’re not alone. Many people feel this way, as the sheets, pillows and temperatures in a hotel room are often far off from what you’re used to. In a USA Today poll, travelers found the pillows to be the biggest factor in failing to get proper rest on vacation, followed by the sheets and then the mattress itself. Noises outside your room, blinking lights and alarms, and air conditioning and heater noises, all contribute to a less-than-ideal night’s sleep. If trying to catch ZZZs on a plane, you have other passengers to contend with, from loud and annoying adults to crying babies.
What to Do
When away on vacation, try to keep the bed to one activity: sleeping. Try to watch TV and read in a chair or on a couch if possible. When you do climb into bed, your brain will get the signal that it’s time for sleep. Immerse yourself in a quiet sleeping environment featuring a supportive bed and many comfy pillows, advises the National Sleep Foundation. Try to stick to your regular bedtime routine – at least for the kids – and avoid eating big meals right before hitting the hay. Check out the many white noise and sleep apps available on your smart phone before turning out the lights.
Getting rest is crucial – especially while traveling when your immune system is already compromised.
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