Traveling with kids can be incredibly daunting! I get it; I've been there. So, I want to share some of my tips to help keep your little one's sleep on track while traveling.
1. Recreate Their Sleep Environment
Make sure you travel with their essential sleep items where you can. Think of a white noise machine, red light if applicable, and a porta cot they are used to. Don’t forget portable blackout blinds! My favourite ones are from Sleepy Sundays, which you can find here.* Use the code HushBabySleep for a sneaky discount. Recreating your baby's sleep environment helps maintain consistency, which is key for baby sleep success.
2. Take All of Baby’s Sleep Associations
Make sure you are traveling with your baby’s positive sleep associations. Think of any comforters they use, dummies (pacifiers), sleeping bags, etc. These familiar items will help your baby feel secure and promote better infant sleep while away from home.
3. Maintain Your Bedtime Routine
Don't skip over your bedtime routine! Do your best to complete your usual bedtime routine. You may need to tweak it slightly due to being in a different environment, but try to stay as close to normal as possible. A consistent bedtime routine is crucial for promoting healthy baby sleep habits, even when traveling.
4. Every Second Day Counts
I get it; when you're on holiday, it can be incredibly challenging to ensure all naps and bedtime occur at the usual times. So follow the every-second-day rule. If you spend one day out and day naps turn to crap, then do your best to make the following day a little more low-key to allow your little one to recharge. Balancing activity days with rest days can help maintain your baby's sleep schedule.
If you have purchased a brand new porta cot and are worried about your little one not sleeping in it, then practice! In the week leading up to your departure, set the porta cot up in their bedroom and do a couple of naps there so that it’s not completely new when you arrive. This will help your baby adjust and ensure better sleep on the go.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your baby’s sleep remains on track while traveling, leading to a more enjoyable trip for everyone.
Happy travels and sweet dreams!
Claire De Simone is the founder of Hush Baby Sleep. She is a certified baby sleep consultant, a paediatric nurse with 12 years experience, a wife and a Mum of 2 children.
*This is an affiliate link to purchase Sleep Sundays portable blackout blinds.
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