The commonly known notion about traveling is that people visit various locations to experience life there and explore other parts of the world. But the recent trend that is on rise in the travel industry is the 'Sleeping Tourism'. It is a concept centered around rest and relaxation, is becoming increasingly popular as people seek vacations that help them escape stress and prioritise quality sleep.
What is sleeping tourism?
Sleeping tourism, also known as sleep tourism, refers to travel experiences designed to promote deep relaxation and better sleep. Unlike traditional vacations that focus on exploration and activity, this trend revolves around wellness retreats, luxury hotels with sleep-enhancing amenities, and destinations that emphasise tranquility. Many travelers are now choosing locations specifically for their ability to offer restorative sleep experiences.
Sleep Tourism 2.0: AI-powered mattresses in Norwegian fjord cabins + zero-light bedrooms with constellation projections. Dream analytics included! pic.twitter.com/IDmhBnlP2D
— Itinere Trip (@Itineretrip) February 6, 2025
Why is sleeping tourism gaining popularity?
With growing awareness of the importance of sleep for overall well-being, more people are seeking ways to recover from burnout, digital fatigue, and high-pressure work environments. According to travel expert Rohan Bhandarkar, “People are realising that sleep is not just a necessity, but a luxury that can be enhanced through the right environment and lifestyle choices.”
New idea: sleep hotels.
— oskarth (@oskarth) August 9, 2023
A place you can pay money for to stay over night, kind of like a hotel or airbnb, except they take sleep experience seriously (noise, light, temperature, bed quality, noise).
The post-pandemic world has also contributed to the rise of this trend, as individuals look for ways to de-stress and focus on personal wellness. Many travelers now prioritise vacations that allow them to reset both mentally and physically.
What do sleep-focused destinations offer?
Many hotels and resorts are catering to this demand by introducing special sleep programs and amenities. Some of the features commonly found in sleep tourism destinations include:
Soundproof rooms to eliminate noise disruptions.
Specialised bedding with memory foam mattresses and temperature-regulating sheets.
Aromatherapy and sleep-inducing teas to promote relaxation.
Guided meditation and breathing exercises for improved sleep quality.
Blue-light-free environments that minimise exposure to screens before bedtime.
Idea: a hotel brand geared towards great sleep
— Sheel Mohnot (@pitdesi) March 2, 2025
I get especially bad sleep when traveling (jet lag etc) and being alert is often even more important than usual
So design a hotel around it:
Soundproof rooms with warm lighting, blackout curtains, great bedding & mattresses with…
Dr. Maya, a sleep specialist, notes, “Travelers want more than just a comfortable bed, they want an experience that actively improves their sleep health.”
As modern life becomes more hectic, sleeping tourism is emerging as a meaningful way to recharge and rejuvenate. Instead of returning from vacation feeling exhausted, travelers now have the option to come back feeling refreshed, well-rested, and ready to take on life’s challenges. Whether it’s through a serene retreat in nature or a high-tech hotel room designed for optimal sleep, this trend is here to stay.
So, the next time you plan a trip, ask yourself-is it time for a sleep-cation?