The holidays are almost here, and many of us are planning trips to visit loved ones or take a family vacation. While traveling with little ones can seem daunting, a bit of planning can go a long way toward making it a smoother experience. At Slumber Squad, we’ve put together a list of travel tips, tricks, and some essential gear that can make holiday travel a little easier and a lot more comfortable for both you and your child!
1. Bring Comfort from Home
A new environment can be a lot for a baby or toddler to process, and being away from their usual sleep space can lead to some extra wake-ups or general restlessness. One way to make things feel a little more familiar is to bring along a few comfort items from home.
Favorite Blanket or Lovey: If your child has a blanket, lovey, or stuffed animal they use to fall asleep, pack it! Familiar scents and textures help little ones feel more at home.
Portable White Noise Machine: If your child is used to white noise, a portable machine can be a lifesaver. It helps drown out any new and unfamiliar noises, especially if you’re staying in a busy household or hotel.
Sleep Sack or Swaddle: Keep their sleepwear consistent by bringing along their usual sleep sack or swaddle. This can be especially helpful for young babies who associate it with bedtime.
Check out our Amazon storefront for some of our favorite travel-items like white noise machines, travel toys and more here.
2. Adjusting to Time Zones and Schedules
Whether you’re traveling across time zones or just spending time in a new location with a different schedule, some flexibility goes a long way.
Gradually Shift Bedtime Before You Leave: If you’re traveling across multiple time zones, try shifting bedtime in small increments a few days before the trip. For example, if you’re heading east, move bedtime 15-30 minutes earlier each night leading up to departure.
Be Flexible with Nap Times: Travel often throws naps off schedule, and that’s okay! Try to stick to your child’s general wake windows, but if they miss a nap or sleep at a different time, don’t stress. Give them a chance to catch up once you arrive.
Get Outside During the Day: Exposure to natural light can help your child’s body adjust to a new time zone. Spend time outside in the morning and early afternoon to help reset their internal clock.
3. Adding Extra Comfort in New Places
Sleeping in a new environment can sometimes be unsettling for kids. If you’re staying in a hotel, at a family member’s house, or an unfamiliar place, here are some tips to help them adjust:
Create a Cozy Sleep Space: If possible, set up their sleep area to mimic home. This could mean arranging pillows or blankets similarly, using a travel crib, or keeping the setup as consistent as possible.
Extra Snuggles and Reassurance: It’s okay if they need a little extra comfort for a night or two. If your child seems nervous, sit with them for a few minutes as they fall asleep, or offer an extra snuggle or lullaby.
Stick to the Usual Bedtime Routine: As much as possible, stick to the bedtime routine they’re used to. Whether it’s reading a favorite story or singing a familiar song, routines help them feel secure even in new places.
4. Essential Gear for Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Travel days can be long, especially for little ones with short attention spans. Packing a few key items can make all the difference. Some of our favorite travel-friendly products are available on our Amazon storefront, so check it out if you’re looking for suggestions!
Snack Packs and Spill-Proof Cups: Pack a variety of snacks to keep them fueled and entertained. A spill-proof cup or water bottle can be a lifesaver for easy hydration.
Portable Toys and Activities: Bring a small collection of toys or books to help keep them entertained on long car rides or flights. Try travel-friendly options like coloring books, sticker books, or toys that clip to a car seat or stroller.
Collapsible Travel Crib: If you’re staying overnight and want to stick to their sleep routine, a travel crib can be incredibly useful. Many options are lightweight, easy to set up, and help maintain a familiar sleep environment.
5. Setting the Stage for Sleep at Your Destination
Once you’ve arrived, try to ease into the local schedule while honoring your child’s need for rest.
Start with the Regular Bedtime Routine: Even in a new place, do the same bedtime steps you’d do at home—bath, story, and a goodnight song. Familiar rituals signal that it’s time for sleep, helping your child feel secure.
Introduce White Noise If You Haven’t Already: White noise can be a helpful tool for kids who aren’t used to sleeping in new spaces. This extra sound buffer can help them stay asleep through unfamiliar sounds.
Maintain Flexibility When Returning Home: Sometimes, kids need an extra day or two to adjust back to their usual routine once you’re home. Give them time to settle, and if needed, add a bit of extra comfort to help them transition back.
With the right mindset and a few key items, traveling during the holidays can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family. You can find some of our favorite travel-friendly essentials for the car, plane, and more on our Amazon storefront here. Here’s to happy travels and restful sleep, no matter where the holidays take you!
Comments