The first night in an unfamiliar room can be restless, and often the reason is simply the temperature. The bed is too warm, the air feels stuffy, or a cold draught creeps in from a badly fitting window. At home you know exactly how to fix it, but in a strange place you have to work it out from scratch. Luckily, there are small steps that usually help.
Start with the room itself
Before bedtime, let some fresh air in. Open a window for a while, then close it if the evening is cold or noisy. Check whether the curtains keep out the sun, because a room that has been baking all afternoon stays warm for hours. On a hot day, close the curtains in the morning so that the heat does not build up, and open everything in the cooler evening. It is a simple habit that makes a large difference.
Think in layers. Instead of one heavy duvet, use a sheet with a blanket you can push off or pull up as needed. If the bed has only a thick duvet, ask your host for a lighter cover. If the room is cold, wear socks or an extra layer and ask whether there is another blanket in the wardrobe. Keep a thin jumper by the bed, so that you do not have to hunt for it in the dark.
Look for ways to move the air. A fan, if there is one, can be placed so that it moves the air without blowing straight on you. A window opened on both sides of the house creates a gentle flow. If you are too warm, cool your feet and wrists with a damp flannel, and keep a glass of water beside the bed. In a chilly room, a warm drink before bed and a comfortable pair of pyjamas can be enough.
Ask your host about the heating or cooling. They know the quirks of the house, such as which radiator is stubborn or how the thermostat works. Be patient during the first night, because the body needs time to adjust. If it does not work out, try a small change the next evening rather than giving up. Most people find that the second night is far better than the first.
