There’s nothing quite like walking into a crisp, air-conditioned hotel room after a long day of travel. But once the lights go out, that same room can turn on you—too warm, too stuffy, or worse, filled with that mysterious hum from the wall unit that makes sleep feel like a distant dream.
Whether you’re in a high-end suite or a roadside inn, getting a good night’s sleep in a strange room isn’t always guaranteed. The good news? A few clever tricks can turn any hotel stay into a mini sanctuary of calm, cool rest.
Adjust the Thermostat Early
Don’t wait until you’re tossing and turning to realize the room feels like a sauna. As soon as you check in, set the thermostat to your ideal sleeping temperature—usually somewhere between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Air conditioning units take time to adjust, so giving it a head start helps create the perfect environment before you even crawl into bed.
If the thermostat seems unreliable (and let’s be honest, some hotel ones are just for show), try adjusting airflow manually. Close heavy curtains, block warm air from vents, and use a travel fan if you packed one. Small tweaks can make a big difference.
Pick the Right Bedding Setup
Hotel bedding can be unpredictable—sometimes there’s too much of it, sometimes not enough. If the room feels warm, strip away extra layers and keep only the sheet and lightest blanket. Heavy duvets may look luxurious, but they trap heat faster than you’d think.
If your hotel offers pillow choices, go for the firm ones. They provide better airflow around your head and neck, which helps regulate temperature overnight. And if you tend to overheat easily, folding a towel or pillowcase between yourself and the mattress can create a small buffer against body heat.
Wear Cooling Pyjamas
One of the easiest ways to stay comfortable at night doesn’t involve the thermostat at all—it’s about what you wear to bed. Traditional cotton pajamas might feel soft, but they hold onto heat and moisture. If you’re a warm sleeper or traveling somewhere with high humidity, cooling pajamas are a total game changer.
Brands like Cool-Jams have mastered this kind of comfort. Their pyjamas are made from a proprietary microfiber fabric that uses a Microfiber Transference System (MTS) to pull heat and moisture away from the skin. The result is a lightweight, breathable feel that keeps you cool and dry even when the room doesn’t cooperate. For frequent travellers, packing a set of Cool-Jams is like carrying your own personal climate control system in your suitcase.
Keep the Curtains Closed During the Day
It’s a small detail most travelers overlook, but sunlight can heat a hotel room dramatically by afternoon. Closing your curtains before you head out for the day prevents heat from building up, so when you return, your room feels naturally cooler.
If your curtains don’t quite meet (and most don’t), use a hanger clip or a clothespin to close the gap. It’s a tiny hack that can make a surprising difference, especially in sunny destinations.
Hydrate Before Bed
Dehydration can make it harder to sleep comfortably, especially when the air in hotel rooms is dry from constant air conditioning. Keep a glass or bottle of water by the bed, and sip before turning in. You’ll sleep deeper and wake up feeling less groggy.
Skip the nightcap—alcohol might make you sleepy at first, but it actually raises body temperature and disrupts deep sleep. Herbal tea or water is a much better way to wind down.
Ask the Front Desk for Help
If the temperature still won’t cooperate, don’t suffer in silence. Hotel staff are used to these requests and can often provide extra fans, lighter bedding, or even room changes if the climate control isn’t working properly. It’s always worth asking—it’s your stay, and a good night’s rest is part of what you’re paying for.
FAQs
Why are hotel rooms often too warm or cold at night?
Temperature controls vary between properties, and some systems are motion-activated, shutting off while you sleep. Adjust the settings early and use a fan or cooling pyjamas to stay comfortable.
Are cooling pyjamas really effective?
Yes. Brands like Cool-Jams use moisture-wicking fabrics that draw heat away from the body, making a noticeable difference in how you sleep.
What temperature is best for sleep?
Most people sleep best between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, though it varies slightly depending on personal preference.
How can I cool down quickly without changing the thermostat?
Take a cool shower before bed, keep curtains closed during the day, and wear breathable fabrics like those used in Cool-Jams pyjamas.
What’s one easy way to make any hotel stay feel more restful?
Create consistency—bring your own sleepwear, maintain your usual routine, and adjust your environment early. Familiar comfort leads to better rest.
