Traveling with Your Baby? Here’s How to Help Them Sleep Anywhere

Traveling with a baby can feel like an adventure, (and sometimes an endurance test). I remember one trip with my little one: car packed, stroller ready, diaper bag completely overflowing, and then bedtime arrived. My usually great sleeper became fussy, wide-eyed, and totally unsettled. As a pediatric sleep consultant, I’ve seen this happen countless times. The good news? There are practical solutions to help your baby sleep while traveling, keeping both baby and parents well-rested.

If you’re facing a similar situation, here’s how to manage crib climbing and ensure your toddler stays safe while getting the rest they need.

Why Baby Sleep Changes During Travel

Babies thrive on consistency. A new environment, different noises, and unfamiliar lighting can easily disrupt their routine. Even the tiniest change, (like sharing a hotel room or sleeping in a pack-and-play), can affect their ability to settle down. Sleep disruptions during travel are normal, but with the right approach, you can maintain better sleep for babies and smoother nights for parents.

SlumberPod:

A Game-Changer for Travel Sleep

One of my favorite tools for traveling families is the SlumberPod. This compact sleep pod creates a dark, cozy space for your baby, no matter where you are. It’s especially helpful for room sharing for babies in hotel rooms or visiting relatives. The SlumberPod allows your baby to maintain a sense of routine, signaling that it’s time to sleep, even in a completely new setting.

Tips to Help Baby Sleep While Traveling

Stick to Your Routine as Much as Possible
Even in a new city or hotel room, maintaining familiar bedtime elements, (like a consistent bedtime story, lullaby, or favorite blanket), helps your baby feel safe and signals that it’s time to sleep. Replicating your usual sleep environment, even on the go, makes a big difference.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Space
Products like the SlumberPod or blackout curtains are invaluable when traveling. Blocking light helps your baby distinguish between daytime activity and nighttime sleep, especially in bright hotel rooms or during long summer days. A SlumberPod provides a cozy, dark, and private space for your baby to sleep anywhere, blocking out 95% of the light!

Bring Familiar Comforts
Pack items your baby already knows and loves: favorite loveys, blankets, sleep sacks, bedtime books, or a portable white noise machine. Familiar objects provide comfort and consistency, making it easier for your baby to settle in a new environment.

Time Travel Around Morning Hours When Possible
Morning travel often works better than later in the day. A rested baby is more likely to tolerate changes in routine and environment. If travel must occur later, plan a short pre-trip nap to prevent overtired meltdowns.

Give Your Baby Their Own Sleep Space
Whenever possible, set up a separate sleep area for your baby, even in a hotel room or a relative’s home. Using a travel crib, pack-and-play, or SlumberPod gives your baby a defined, comfortable space that signals it’s time for sleep. This reduces the likelihood of developing habits you don’t want ( for example sleeping in your bed), which can be difficult to break once you return home. …and yes, I literally sleep train families out of this all the time. That “just one night in our bed” quickly becomes the new normal. SlumberPod helps prevent that before your baby decides your bed is their “permanent.”

Be Flexible (but Also Consistent)
Sleep may not be perfect while traveling, and that’s okay. Small disruptions are totally normal. Stick to consistent cues and routines, and your baby will adjust quickly once home.

Best Baby Sleep Products for Travel

• SlumberPod: Creates a dark, private sleep space anywhere.

• Travel crib or pack-and-play: Offers a portable, familiar sleep environment for babies.

• SlumberTot Inflatable Toddler Bed (18 months–5 years): A lightweight, easy-to-pack option for toddlers who are transitioning from a crib.

• Toddler cot: Ideal for slightly older toddlers who prefer a low, independent sleep space on the go.

• Portable white noise machine: Blocks unfamiliar sounds in new environments.

You’ve Got This! (Even on the Road)

Traveling with little ones doesn’t have to mean sleepless nights (trust me, I’ve been there!). With a bit of planning, the right baby sleep solutions, and tools like the SlumberPod, you can help your baby settle into a familiar, comforting sleep space no matter where you are. When your baby sleeps well, everyone (parents included) feels more rested, energized, and ready to enjoy the trip.

Sleep challenges on the road are completely normal, but with consistent routines, familiar comforts, and a little preparation, your baby can rest easy, and so can you!

Use code BEDTIMEWISHES for 10% off at SlumberPod—I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your pediatrician or a healthcare professional for medical concerns.

By: Dr. Laura Daniels PT, DPT, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

Do you have more concerns about your child’s sleep? Feel free to book a FREE discovery call