Managing Sleep During Travel

It can be daunting to plan a trip with a little one...not to mention trying to figure out how to best support your baby and toddler's sleep. Below you will find tips and tricks on how to best manage your kiddo's sleep without having to sacrifice all of the fun, adventure and joy that comes with travelling.

It is expected that when travelling your child’s sleep may get a bit off-track. Don't sweat it too much...just do your very best to manage their sleep given the situation, knowing that having an enjoyable trip is important for your family, too.

Baby Travel Options on a Flight: 

OPTION 1: The recommended option for children under the age of 2 years is to use an approved car seat for flying in their own seat on the plane; available options can be researched online. The government of Canada recommendations can be found here: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children/taking-children-on-a-plane 

OPTION 2: Sleep on their caregiver/parent. You can hold your baby while they sleep, and you may want to purchase or bring a lap pillow or nursing pillow to provide comfort. This is easier to manage on shorter flights.

Managing Sleep while at the Airport: 

The noise and stimulation of the airport may not permit your baby to fall asleep when you're waiting for your flight. That’s ok, stay calm, engage and district them. You can then get them to sleep at your first opportunity, once things quiet down and feel calm.

Timing Naps and Bedtime, and Overnight Sleep 

• Keeping them on schedule as best you will be important. If you are flying and they do not fall asleep on the plane, do your very best to get them down for sleep once you’re able.

• If they are asleep on the plane and you land during the night, try to keep them asleep during any ground transportation to your destination.

• Once you reach your destination, do a shortened bedtime routine, and get them back down in their sleep environment that you have re-created.

Handling Sleep Interruptions 

• It is likely that their sleep schedule will be a bit disrupted during your travel. Don't stress too much. Just as soon as you’re settled at your destination, get them to sleep and back on track. They should fall into their schedule and habits again in a day or two. There may be a few bumpy days; just stay consistent with your schedule and routines as best you can and they should adapt shortly.

Sleep Environment at your Destination 

• You will have the most sleep success when travelling if you can recreate their sleep environment at your destination. Black out the windows, set up pink nose, keep the room cool and quiet. It is best if this can be set up in their own room or space, and if this is not possible, try to create a separation as best you can between your bed and their sleep space.

• A safe sleep space (crib) for your baby is important. If your hotel or lodging doesn’t offer a crib, you can bring a travel crib with you, such as a pack 'n play.

• When using a travel crib, it can help to have a tight-fitting crib sheet, which you can use a few days ahead of travelling so that it smells familiar to your little one.

• Bringing your baby’s sleep sack (unwashed) will also be familiar, too.

• If your kiddo has never slept in their travel crib before, try it out a few times at home or at a family's home before leaving. It may help them associate this as their sleep space.

• During your trip, naps can take place on the go, in a carrier or in a stroller. Don't feel that you have to keep yourself in a hotel room all the time... be flexible and adaptable so you can enjoy your time together.

Sleep Habits While Away 

• Continuing to allow your little one to fall asleep independently at naps and bedtime as well as for any overnight wakings.

• Your first day or two may be a bit rocky. As they adjust, just stay consistent with your schedule, routines and habits. This will be familiar to them and will help them get back on track efficiently.

• If they need extra support or comfort, go ahead and offer them an extended bedtime routine or rub their back and/or stay with them for a few extra minutes. Just ensure they are falling asleep and back asleep independently.

Enjoy your family time together to explore, learn and relax together.