We’ve all been there: a long day of meetings or classes, a delayed flight, or just plain exhaustion. Sometimes, you just can’t help but fall asleep on-the-go.

While it might provide a moment of relief, it can also lead to embarrassing incidents and even safety hazards. Here are five telltale signs that you caught some Z’s on-the-go:.

1. Pillow marks on your face

One of the most obvious signs that you’ve been napping on-the-go is the pillow marks on your face. Whether you were leaning against a window, a table, or a book, the telltale imprint of the surface will be left on your skin.

This can be a dead giveaway that you were sleeping in public, which might be embarrassing or even raise safety concerns depending on where you are.

2. Disheveled hair

Another giveaway that you caught some Z’s on-the-go is your hair. Depending on where you fell asleep and how you were positioned, your hair might be sticking up, flattened, or tangled.

This can be a telltale sign that you were sleeping in public, which might make you feel self-conscious.

3. Drool stains on your clothes

One of the more embarrassing consequences of falling asleep on-the-go is the risk of drooling. When you’re deeply asleep, it’s easy for saliva to collect at the corner of your mouth and drip down your chin.

This can create noticeable stains on your clothes, which can make you feel self-conscious or even inhibit social interactions.

4. Incomplete tasks

If you were supposed to be working, studying, or doing something productive, falling asleep on-the-go can lead to incomplete tasks.

This can be a sign that you’re not getting enough sleep or that you’re trying to pack too much into your schedule. If you find yourself regularly falling asleep when you’re supposed to be productive, it might be time to reevaluate your schedule and make time for rest.

5. Waking up disoriented

Finally, one of the most dangerous consequences of falling asleep on-the-go is the risk of waking up disoriented. Depending on how deeply you were sleeping and where you are, waking up can be disorienting and even dangerous.

If you fall asleep on public transportation, for example, you might miss your stop or lose your belongings. If you fall asleep while driving, the consequences can be deadly. To avoid these risks, it’s important to prioritize getting enough sleep and finding safe, comfortable places to rest.

How to avoid catching some Z’s on-the-go

Now that you know the telltale signs of falling asleep on-the-go, how can you avoid it? Here are some tips:.

1. Prioritize getting enough sleep

This might seem obvious, but one of the best ways to avoid falling asleep on-the-go is to get enough sleep in the first place. Make sure you’re setting aside enough time to rest each night, and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.

If you’re struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, consider talking to a healthcare provider about potential sleep disorders.

2. Avoid caffeine and sugar before bed

Both caffeine and sugar can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Try to avoid consuming these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime.

If you need a pick-me-up during the day, opt for healthier options like water, fruits, nuts, or herbal tea.

3. Create a comfortable sleep environment

If you’re traveling or working in a new environment, it can be hard to find a comfortable place to rest. However, there are some things you can do to create a more sleep-friendly environment.

Consider bringing your own pillow, eye mask, earplugs, or white noise machine. You can also try to control the temperature and lighting in your sleep area to create a more restful environment.

4. Take naps strategically

If you know you’re prone to sleepiness during the day, try to take strategic naps to avoid falling asleep on-the-go. Instead of waiting until you’re exhausted, schedule short naps (15-20 minutes) at regular intervals throughout the day.

This can help keep you alert and focused, without interfering with your nighttime sleep.

5. Find a safe and comfortable place to rest

If you do need to rest on-the-go, try to find a safe and comfortable place to do so. This might mean taking a break in your car or finding a quiet corner in a library or office building.

Make sure you’re in a safe environment and that you’re not putting yourself or others at risk.

Conclusion

Falling asleep on-the-go can be a convenient way to get some much-needed rest, but it can also lead to embarrassing incidents and even safety hazards.

By recognizing the telltale signs of falling asleep in public, you can take steps to avoid these risks. Prioritize getting enough sleep, avoid caffeine and sugar before bedtime, create a comfortable sleep environment, take strategic naps, and find safe and comfortable places to rest.

With these tips, you can catch your Z’s without the risk of waking up disoriented or covered in drool.