Travelling with small children and babies should be a time of celebration, yet it is often seen as a daunting task.
Before you travel, it is important to make sure that you have a well-established nap and bedtime routine. This will make it easier when you are travelling so that your baby or toddler will know what to expect, even though they are not at home.
Even if your baby is the best sleeper in the world, it may be a whole different story when you are not in the comfort of your own home. When you’re in a strange environment, things might be very different. It’s normal for babies and toddlers to test boundaries around sleep when they’re somewhere new.
If your baby cries or wakes up at odd times during the night, handle this behaviour in the same way that you would at home. If your child has a treasured comfort item, it will go a long way to helping them feel safe and secure enough to fall asleep in a strange environment. Even a familiar smell that is comforting may be all it takes for them to turn over and go back to sleep.
If you don’t normally co-sleep with your baby or child, don’t do it whilst away. Even if it’s only for a few nights, you could find yourself dealing with a big problem when you get home.
Top Tips for Travelling with Small Children and Babies
- Always leave plenty of time.
- Try to schedule flights to fit around your baby’s sleep schedule.
- Recreate your bedroom routine on the flight, even if that means changing them into their PJ’s and reading them a bedtime story.
- Remember to pack snacks, treats and any added extras in case you face delays.
- Remember to pack enough nappies, wipes, hand sanitizer, and nappy bags. A good tip is to have a changing kit at the ready in the seat pocket in front of you so you can quickly grab it and go.