Plane annoying – lack of sleep impacts summer getaways
As millions of Brits prepare to jet off on their summer holidays, new research by Premier Inn reveals that sleep – or lack of it – could be the biggest travel woe this summer.
As more than one in four are planning a summer holiday, the UK itself remains a top destination – pipped to the number one sport only by Spain, according to YouGov.
With millions taking to planes, trains, automobiles and even ferries in search of the perfect break, new research by the leading hotel brand uncovers the nation’s sleep habits when on the move.
Over one third of Brits (38%) struggle to fall asleep when travelling by any mode, with 12% finding it completely impossible.
Research also revealed many people struggle to get sleep in cars (36%), buses (40%), and trains (37%), whilst over a third of us (35%) can’t get any shuteye on a flight. Just one in four (20%) find it easy to sleep whilst on a ferry, the lowest across all modes of transport.
But the effects don’t stop when the journey ends, with 28.43% saying a lack of rest means they arrive on holiday feeling groggy and tired, 22.84% admitting they are irritable and moody, and 14.21% going as far as to say it negatively impacts the rest of their trip.
An uncomfortable seat (45%), noise (35%) and lack of a pillow (24%) are all listed as culprits to disrupting sleep when travelling.
Getting a good night’s sleep beforehand (22%) bringing a pillow (22%) and knowing there is a comfortable bed ready on arrival (18%) are key to easing anxiety about being able to nod off. Over one in ten (11%) are so keen to ensure this that they book a hotel near their airport or departure point to make sure they can get the best night’s sleep possible ahead of the trip.
When it comes to travel-buddies, it’s no surprise that children are named as the most likely to disrupt sleep, with one-in-five parents admitting that travelling with kids keeps them awake. 15.53% struggle to sleep near strangers – a clear problem for those on public transport – whilst partners (8%) and friends (6%) can also get in the way of a good nap.
A Premier Inn spokesperson said: “The great summer getaway is upon us but many of us will arrive groggy and tired due to lack of sleep which then goes on to impact the trip. For longer journeys investing in a travel pillow, using noise cancelling headphones and ensuring clothing is comfortable to ensure you’re neither too hot nor cold, can help aid sleep on the move. Where possible, staying in a hotel then night before a flight can help ease anxiety about a trip and making sure you’ve booked accommodation with a comfortable bed for the duration is always key”. For those dreaming of beach days, exploring vibrant cities or escaping to the countryside – a good night’s sleep can make the whole experience even better.
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