How to Sleep Without Using a Bed

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Sometimes sleeping without a bed is necessary; sometimes it's a lifestyle decision. Either way, you can make the experience more comfortable to help you get needed rest. There are several ways to sleep without a bed when you have to, including sleeping in chairs, on the floor, or in a sleeping bag. Other times, sleeping on the floor or in a hammock can at first seem challenging, but can relieve stress on your back, as can sleeping in a recliner. And for the truly adventurous, sleeping while sitting upright can help deepen a meditation practice.


Method 1
Method 1 of 6:

Getting Comfortable Without Your Bed

PDF download Download Article
  1. It can be hard to get comfortable to sleep when you don't have a bed to lie down in (at the airport, for instance). Sometimes there is simply no feasible place to lie down, so you may have to opt for a chair or sitting against a wall. If possible recline at a 135-degree angle for the most comfort. Avoid sleeping sitting straight up or leaning forward because this may cause undue pressure on your back and neck and it may also contribute to pain in those areas. [1]
  2. A pillow helps make any unusual sleeping situation better. A travel pillow is best if you have to sit up while sleeping, such as on an airplane. If you're in an airport without a pillow, it might be time to splurge on a pillow at one of the travel shops. [2]
    • If you don't have a pillow, you can make one out of any clothing you have. [3]
    Advertisement
  3. Often, on short trips, or during unexpected waits (such as in an emergency room), you may not have thought to bring a blanket. If you have a jacket or coat, you can put it over you to provide extra heat. This will help you stay warm while trying to sleep. [4]
  4. Or better yet, use a sleep mask. However, if you are caught unexpectedly needing to sleep without a bed, the likelihood is that you won't have a sleep mask on you. Don't worry, any lightweight, opaque fabric big enough to cover the eyes can help. This method works best if you are lying down or reclining. However, if you must sit, you may need to find something to drape over your head and face, such as a towel, that won't slide down. [5]
  5. If you really want to be able to sleep in a public place, you'll need to secure your belongings. Make sure small valuables are in pockets, or covered in your lap. For larger belongings, such as a duffle bag or suitcase, you may try keeping one foot down in the strap, or placing the luggage between your feet if it isn't too big. If you can plan ahead of time, you can put locks on the luggage. If you are lying down, you may want to use it as a pillow.
    • Sometimes, airports have storage lockers you can use. If you are really worried about your belongings, consider this option when available. [6]
    • Never sleep in an area where you do not feel safe, especially if you are alone.
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 6:

Sleeping in a Home Without an Extra Bed

PDF download Download Article
  1. If there is a couch available, this will often be the most comfortable option after a bed, as you will be able to stretch out. You'll want to make sure you have enough room to sleep comfortably, and you'll want to make sure your head isn't resting at an odd angle because of the couch's arm rests. [7]
  2. Sleep in a recliner . Recline at a 135-degree angle. Anywhere from 135 to 150 is highly recommended for easing back pain. Reclining at 135 degrees is also great for work, as it reduces stress on your back. [8] Reclining 135 degrees is halfway between 90 degrees (sitting straight up) and 180 degrees (lying flat). >
  3. If the floor is carpeted, this can already be a cushy solution, especially if the couch isn't comfortable and there are no recliners. If not, try layering blankets to make the floor as comfy as possible. If you know beforehand that you'll be sleeping on the floor, bring your sleeping bag. Also, if the couch isn't quite comfortable because of armrests, you can try taking the cushions off the couch to make a makeshift bed.
  4. Just because you’re sleeping in a recliner or on the couch doesn’t mean you can’t have your favorite pillow or blanket to keep you comfortable. Depending on the recliner you may need additional cushion for neck and back support. If you plan to sleep in the recliner all night, having a blanket can make it feel more restful.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 6:

Sleeping Without a Bed While Camping

PDF download Download Article
  1. A sleeping bag is one of the best way to ensure you get the rest you need while camping. However there are some things to consider when choosing a sleeping bag, including the climate and forecast of the area where you're camping, whether you're hot- or cold-natured, and the amount of padding or waterproofing it provides. You don't want to be camping in a really cold or wet area without a sufficient sleeping bag. [9]
    • If you're planning a winter camping trip in a cold climate, make sure your sleeping bag is rated for the degree range you're going to be facing (-40 degrees, for instance). Some sleeping bags are rated for a lower temp than they'll actually stand up to, so it's best to choose a sleeping bag with a rating of at least 10 degrees below what you'll be facing.
    • If you're camping in a really wet or rainy place, you'll want to make sure your sleeping bag and tent are waterproof, not just water-resistant. Water-resistant materials only keep out the water to a certain point. Waterproof materials should keep you dry.
    • A sleeping bag with hydrophobic down is the best at keeping you warm in wet conditions.
    • The "mummy-style" sleeping bag, or a sleeping bag that tapers at the end, is the best choice for staying warm, as it isn't as spacious as a rectangular sleeping bag, and thus is easier to keep warm with body heat.
  2. Sticks and stones can make for a very unpleasant sleep when camping. You'll want to go over the area carefully, and remove all debris. Even the tiniest twig or pebble can disturb some people's sleep. You may want to choose an area that is layered in pine needles for extra cushion.
  3. Cushioning such as sleeping mats or a cot can help you get good rest, as it will keep you from having to lie directly on the cold, hard ground. Sleeping platforms such as inflatable pads or foam pads often provide the support you need. [10]
  4. Using a pillow will help to keep your upper body in alignment when you are sleeping, and it may also help to prevent pain in your neck and back from undue pressure. [11] A pillow will also help your sleeping bag feel closer to home and provide cushion and support for your neck and head while you sleep. With all the logistics that sometimes go into camping, it can be easy to forget your pillow, but if you want a good night's rest while camping, you'll have it on hand. [12]
    • If you do forget your pillow, try rolling up some clothing or other soft materials to use as a pillow.
    5. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 6:

Sleeping in a Hammock

PDF download Download Article
  1. Spreader bars make a hammock less stable and more likely to flip. A good hammock shouldn’t flip with you inside it. There are plenty of sturdier and more comfortable options available including nylon hammocks. [13]
  2. Although this is traditional idea of a hammock, it is not very comfortable. As with any rope, it can chafe the skin. The longer you stay in a rope hammock, the less comfortable it will be. [14]
  3. You should choose a hammock that is four feet longer than your height. As for your weight, you should check the label to see what a hammock’s weight limits are. Using a hammock whose weight limit is less than your weight will make the hammock more likely to rip.
  4. You need two sturdy points from which to hang the hammock. This can be two trees, two sturdy posts (that are correctly anchored), or a hammock stand. Keeping the hammock hang points even will make the hammock more comfortable, and you won’t find yourself in an awkward position when you get in. [15] [16]
  5. Don’t pull it tight. When you pull the hammock tight, it can be confining and uncomfortable. Letting it hang loose will make it more comfortable for sleeping. [17]
    • If it is too loose, you’ll know, as it will hit the ground when you’re lying in it. [18]
  6. Make sure that the hammock is securely attached to sturdy supports and that it is not frayed or damaged in any way. Try pressing down on the hammock a few times to see if it feels sturdy before you get into it.
  7. Once you are at this angle, you should be able to rest easy for hours. This move will help you lay across the curve of the hammock rather than in it. This is the opposite of what happens when you pull the hammock too tight. [19]
    8. Advertisement
Method 5
Method 5 of 6:

Starting a Routine of Sleeping on the Floor

PDF download Download Article
  1. If you want to sleep on the floor as a lifestyle choice, then you might want to try it out a few times first. It takes time for your body to adjust to the new position and the absence of a soft mattress. You may be uncomfortable for the first few days, but after that you should get used to it. You may even wake up feeling refreshed once you’re in the routine of sleeping on the floor. [20]
    • In some cases, sleeping on the floor might be a necessity, such as if you do not have a bed.
  2. In the beginning especially, you may want some type of cushion to help you transition from the bed to the floor. A yoga mat is great for this because it is already designed for you to lay down on at length and provides a slight cushion between you and the floor. [21]
    • You can also provide some cushioning for yourself by placing a few doubled up blankets on the floor.
  3. While you might have another preferred sleeping position when in bed, the best position for the floor is on your back. Otherwise, you won’t get the benefit of the back support the floor provides. Sleeping on your side while on the floor may cause back pain. [22]
    4. Advertisement
Method 6
Method 6 of 6:

Starting a Routine of Sleeping Upright

PDF download Download Article
  1. The angle should be slightly less than 90 degrees (70 is fine) to help you transition to sleeping fully upright. You can attain this angle by placing a board against the wall and stabilizing it or with a foam wedge (like those used in yoga or to raise the angle of your bed). The angle should be almost upright to get the closest to actually sleeping upright. [23] [24] [25]
  2. When beginning to sleep upright, padding can ease the transition. This can be as simple as pillows and blankets. You can also use an extra-thick yoga mat and a pillow. [26]
  3. You can use additional cushions or other back aids for this purpose. You need lower back support to sleep upright comfortably. It defeats the purpose of sleeping upright (to sleep with good posture) to avoid back support (until you can sleep upright without any support). [27]
  4. A J-pillow or a neck pillow will help your neck stay upright when you’re first learning to sleep upright. Without proper neck support you may find yourself dealing with severe neck pain when you wake up or a crick in your neck. Just make sure to keep your neck from slouching or leaning too much to one side. [28]
  5. More important than trying out a new position is making sure you’re getting enough rest. There are severe long-term health risks associated with not getting enough quality sleep. If sleeping upright just doesn’t seem to work after a few days, go back to your previous method of sleeping. [29]
  6. Although sleeping upright can be a rewarding experience for some, there are some risks involved, especially if you sleep for a long time with your legs bent. DVT is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It is the formation of a blood clot in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually the legs. Sitting still for long periods of time is a risk factor for DVT. You can prevent a DVT by stretching legs and shifting positions every few hours. [30]
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is sleeping in a chair better if you tend to snore at night?
    Marc Kayem, MD
    Sleep Specialist
    Dr. Marc Kayem is a board certified Otolaryngologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California. He practices and specializes in cosmetic services and sleep-related disorders. He received his Doctorate in Medicine from the University of Ottawa, is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada.
    Marc Kayem, MD
    Sleep Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Not particularly. Most people snore because gravity pulls down on the soft tissues in their throat. Their uvula, tongue, or tonsils tilt back and cause a blockage that triggers snoring. Sleeping upright doesn't really change anything here since the soft tissues will still be pulled down. Try sleeping on your side if you're having trouble with snoring at night.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • If you are having trouble sleeping or having back pains you may need to see a doctor. This article is not meant to replace the advice of a medical professional.
        Thanks
        Helpful 12 Not Helpful 1


      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Sleep Better
      How to
      Sleep Comfortably in a Car
      How to
      Make a Bed on the Floor
      Sleeping in the Nude: Potential Benefits and How to Get Started
      The Best Co-Sleeping Safety Measures: Your Ultimate Guide
      How to
      Sleep Comfortably on a Cold Night
      Sleeping with Headphones: Safety, Benefits, and More
      How to
      Sleep with Lots of Noise
      How to
      Make Sleeping on the Floor Comfortable
      How to
      Sleep in a Bathtub
      How to
      Sleep Comfortably on a Hot Night
      How to
      Sleep in a Single Bed With a Partner
      How to
      Sleep Through a Thunderstorm
      How to
      Sleep Comfortably
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-truths/Whats-the-best-way-to-sleep-on-a-plane/
      2. ↑ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-truths/Whats-the-best-way-to-sleep-on-a-plane/
      3. ↑ https://www.active.com/outdoors/articles/7-tips-for-sleeping-in-a-tent
      4. ↑ https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/packing/blanket-and-or-pillow-for-plane
      5. ↑ https://www.dreamessentials.com/articles-faq-020-what-are-eye-masks
      6. ↑ https://www.carryology.com/insights/travel/travel-pro-tip-airport-lockers-are-travel-lifesavers/
      7. ↑ https://greatist.com/happiness/16-ways-sleep-absolutely-anywhere
      8. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/news/20061129/back-pain-eased-by-sitting-back
      9. ↑ https://www.adventure-inspired.com/2013/05/tipsforsleepinginatent.html
      1. ↑ https://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-choose-the-right-camping-sleep-system
      2. ↑ https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/pillow-support-and-comfort
      3. ↑ https://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-choose-the-right-camping-sleep-system
      4. ↑ https://www.treklightgear.com/treklife/hammock-brainwashed/
      5. ↑ https://www.treklightgear.com/treklife/hammock-human-waffle-effect/
      6. ↑ https://boyslife.org/outdoors/ask-the-gear-guy/13005/hammock-advice/
      7. ↑ https://www.improvisedlife.com/2014/05/21/hammock-indoors/
      8. ↑ https://www.treklightgear.com/treklife/hammock-angle/
      9. ↑ https://www.treklightgear.com/treklife/hammock-angle/
      10. ↑ https://www.treklightgear.com/treklife/hammock-angle/
      11. ↑ https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-21734/why-you-should-consider-sleeping-on-the-floor.html
      12. ↑ https://www.md-health.com/Sleeping-on-the-Floor.html
      13. ↑ https://www.md-health.com/Sleeping-on-the-Floor.html
      14. ↑ https://www.theminimalists.com/drew/
      15. ↑ https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/8112619.stm
      16. ↑ https://www.creatingcomforts.co.uk/Bed-Wedges/c-1-154/
      17. ↑ https://www.theminimalists.com/drew/
      18. ↑ https://www.theminimalists.com/drew/
      19. ↑ https://www.verywell.com/crick-in-neck-297079
      20. ↑ https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/8112619.stm
      21. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/basics/causes/con-20031922
      22. ↑ Marc Kayem, MD. Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 24 October 2019.

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To sleep without using a bed, check to see if there is a couch or recliner available that you can sleep on. If there's not, you can sit against a wall or in a chair and place a rolled up blanket or cushion behind your lower back to provide support. Try sitting at a slight angle to avoid placing additional pressure on your back and using a J-pillow to support your neck. If you don’t have a pillow, consider buying one or making one out of your clothing, since using a pillow will significantly improve your sleeping situation! Finally, cover up with a blanket or your jacket to stay warm. For more advice from our Medical co-author, including how to sleep on the floor, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 91,955 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Malia Kessel

        Nov 26, 2018

        "I am going to DC for a week on a school trip, and there will be four people in a room that only has two beds. This ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement