7 Myths About Sleeping Under the Stars

It must be frightening to spend the night alone outside deep in the woods, right?

When I talk to people about my weekend plans, they frequently ask me this question. How did one of the most fundamental and natural actions a person can take turn into something that is not only "scary," but also intimidating to the point of hesitation? I understand, though, because I was once in your shoes.

Even though I spent most of my childhood outdoors, I was still anxious to spend my first night alone outside in the “wilderness”. My fear likely stemmed from two things: my lack of preparation and, well, bears. Now that I've slept outdoors for more than 400 nights, whether it be in the densely forested forests of Maine or on the lofty mountaintops of the Sierra Nevada, I've come to understand that my misconceptions and misguided fears about the outdoors might have prevented me from not only sleeping outside but from having some of the best nights of my life as well.

But I think everyone should put sleeping under the stars in the Wadi Rum desert on their bucket list. Everyone, young and old, should experience it because it is something special and thrilling. Even so, when people learn about this method of overnight lodging, many of them hesitate. Most frequently as a result of some of the legends or myths they had heard about camping out under the stars.

However, here are 7 myths about camping under the stars that you don't need to worry about if you're feeling anxious about going out:

1. Sleeping outside exposes you to potentially dangerous animals

Many different animals can be found in the Wadi Rum desert. While some species are common, others are hardly ever seen. However, many of them seem dangerous and risky to people, but they’re studies and research that these animals tend to scare away from their territory when humans are found there.

2. It is uncomfortable and undoubtedly unhealthy to sleep outside.

When you understand that nature is a different kind of 5* accommodation, it can be a cozy and memorable experience. The amenities are indeed basic. But sleeping on a mattress on the sand is just as comfortable as sleeping in a regular bed.

Numerous studies have looked at how exposure to light—both natural and artificial light—affects sleep. Kenneth Wright, a sleep expert from the University of Colorado Boulder, had the following to say about it. We can adjust our internal clocks and sleep schedules to make it easier to wake up and be alert in the morning by increasing our exposure to sunlight and decreasing our exposure to electrical lighting at night.

3. Only kids should spend the night outside in the open air.

It sounds exciting to spend the night outside under the stars. It is an adventure, in fact. primarily due to the fact that most people are not accustomed to camping. It is "uncharted territory."

Additionally, for some reason, the majority of people believe that this type of adventure is only appropriate for those in their twenties or thirties. This is where they err, unfortunately. Everybody who is in reasonable health and who enjoys having an unusual experience can sleep outside.

4. Spending the night outside is a chilly experience.

In Wadi Rum, it is possible to spend the majority of the year outside. In the spring and fall, temperatures will be a comfortable 15 degrees, and in the summer, they will be around 25 degrees. The wintertime temperature ranges from zero to ten degrees. It's too chilly to sleep outside in that.

Therefore, coming with a sleeping bag, a mattress and a sheet could be great!

5. Only cowboys can go camping.

For many of us, the best part of a backcountry adventure is sleeping outside. The important thing is to feel rested and renewed in nature, which is probably why we went outside in the first place. So why not rest your head next to your favorite constellation or the Milky Way? You can forgo the tent and feel empowered to spend a night truly under the stars if you have the right sleeping pad and bag.

If the weather permits There is nothing like waking up to the creeping dawn or feeling the warm night breeze on your face, so you never miss the chance. Set up your tent close by if you're concerned about the weather changing overnight.

6. You Must Bring All of Your Possibilities

In the outdoors, I frequently see people who are too exhausted to continue because their backpacks are too heavy or their feet are too sore. Many first-time backpackers are of the opinion that they should pack for every conceivable eventuality. It can be difficult to carry a heavy pack that is overloaded with unnecessary items. I think a lighter load contributes to a lighter mood and a wider smile.

Being more in tune with nature is one of the draws of going outside to spend time in the wilderness. The more things you bring, the further away you are from the very thing you are attempting to connect with.

7. Spending the night outside exposes you to a lot of bugs and insects

You've probably read travelogues from people who have visited tropical locations. They frequently talk about the enormous numbers of insects and bugs that move about between dusk and dawn.

Have in mind, Wadi Rum is a desert. Even though the desert is a harsh environment, there are still plenty of bugs and insects there.

In addition, light, as you are aware, draws animals. Therefore, it's likely that you'll see some insects approaching you while using your flashlight. Perhaps curious beetles will also stop by at night. But that's pretty much it.

Conclusion

You won't die if you miss one or two nights of sleep or sleeping outside in a desert, but it can negatively affect your health and daily functioning.

However, you should consult your healthcare provider if you notice any health issue after enjoying your thrilling adventure sleeping outside under the stars, whether the issue is too little. But have in mind, nothing is more fun and exciting than sleeping outside in the open air.