Vacation isn’t necessarily a term I would use when traveling with children. If you’ve traveled with your children before (at various ages/stages), then you know that it isn’t always the most relaxing vibe. However, the last thing you want to deal with on top of being out of their normal environment is to also be out of their normal sleep routines (which could mean dealing with some cranky kids– also not fun).
Here are a few things I consider when booking the trip:
- What kind of trip is it going to be? (Fast-paced, seeing a lot of different places, sleeping in a lot of different locations, or more of a relaxed, slow-paced vibe?)
- What kind of sleeping arrangements can you accommodate for your family?
- Will you be traveling and sleeping in the same home as other family or friends?
- What kind of sleep habits does your child currently have?
I also consider some of my non-negotiables:
- Does anyone need to room share? If so, I consider that a top bunk bed isn’t safe for children under the age of 6 so I don’t count on that being a sleep space for my younger babies.
- Is there a safe, separate space for baby to sleep or room for a pack-n-play (I can get creative with location if I need to)?
Every trip you take allows you to practice flexibility and learn what matters/doesn’t matter to you when traveling so each trip after the last one can be better! There’s always a learning curve, but it does get better when you’re not juggling multiple sleep schedules (AKA when your children are older and not napping any longer).
Where do babies sleep when traveling?
My favorite combo for baby sleep on vacation is a pack-n-play with a Slumberpod. With that amazing tent, they’re able to sleep pretty much anywhere in a house. It totally blacks out their sleep space and allows a separate area for them when room sharing (they won’t wake up and get distracted because you’re there) which means you can have lights on, read, watch TV, and go to the bathroom without disturbing them.
There are also companies that allow you to rent full-size cribs, mini cribs, pack-n-plays, Slumberpods, etc if you’re traveling in the US.
Where do toddlers sleep when traveling?
If your toddler has already transitioned out of their crib and they’re used to sleeping in a bed of some sort, you can certainly use that on a trip if there is a bed for them! Travel blackout curtains are great to take with you to help set their environment up to be as similar to home as you can make it (but black contractor trash bags + painters tape also works).
If they’re usually in a crib at home, but maybe they’ve outgrown the pack-n-play, there are two options for pack-n-plays that are bigger in size than regular ones:
- JOOVY Room2 is an extra large pack and play and it is very easy to travel with
- Guava Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib (does not have a weight limit and says it can be used until your child can climb out of it)
PRO TIP: you can check the pack-n-play for FREE at the ticket counter at the airport. It will be transported in the plane's cargo hold and you can get it with your checked bags at baggage claim!
Another option is a bed on the floor with a slumber pod over it! There are several blow-up options that you can travel with that fit with the Slumberpod. This FAQ from Slumberpod lists compatible products.
How to get a baby or toddler to sleep on vacation
Prepare your child in advance:
- Consider the time zones and how that can affect your child’s sleep patterns.
- Practice/expose your baby to a different sleep space and bring the essentials (sleep bag, white noise; consider sleeping with a sheet that fits their pack-n-play beforehand so it smells familiar)
- Pack all the essentials to help your toddler feel comfortable: lovey, white noise machine, travel bumpers, and favorite pillow/blanket.
- Have a conversation with your toddler about traveling. Explain to them where they will be sleeping (if it is now in the same room as you, a different room, with a friend or a sibling).
- Call the hotel/rental before traveling and get information on the sleep arrangements, like if they have a pull-out bed, large crib, or pack-n-play.
Maintain their current routines and associations around sleep:
- When you arrive, stick to your bedtime routine. Even though you might not be able to follow the same timetable, recreate the same process. This familiarity can help your baby or toddler adjust to the new environment and fall asleep more easily
- Set up the environment the same: use white noise, blackout shades, cool temperature, or dressed appropriately for sleep
Stay flexible and keep expectations low:
You are with your family on vacation or traveling to see family/friends, this means it is time to relax and enjoy - so being flexible is essential! If your toddler skips a nap, do an early bedtime. If he has an early morning, let him come have quiet time in your room while he waits for everyone else to get up for the day. Remember, a change in schedule for a few days will not undo all your sleep training efforts.
Be patient:
Your toddler may have a hard time adjusting. Reassure your toddler and provide comfort if they are unsettled. They may be overstimulated and have a hard time settling down for sleep. Go into the trip expecting this!
Get Back on Track After:
Once your travel is over, your baby or toddler may need a few days to readjust to their regular schedule. As soon as you return home, reintroduce your normal routine. With consistency at home, your toddler will fall back into their regular sleep pattern pretty quickly.
Remember, every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. The key to successfully managing your baby or toddler's sleep schedule while on vacation is finding a balance between routine and relaxation. With a little bit of planning and a lot of patience, your family can enjoy a restful and fun-filled vacation.
Happy travels!
Author Bio:
Ashley Olson is a certified pediatric sleep consultant, owner of Heaven Sent Sleep and The Collective for Family Rest and Wellness, and is passionate about helping new parents, experienced parents, and desperate and sleep-deprived parents form healthy sleep habits for their children.
She has over 5 years of experience in working with families and has completed over 150 hours of coursework plus continuing education related to infant and toddler sleep. The focus of her work is on fostering a routine that grows your bond with your child while improving their sleep habits. She specializes in custom sleep plans and one on one support in changing sleep practices!
