How To Maintain Bedtime Routines When Traveling With A Newborn
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Time to read 5 min
Having a newborn baby is one of the most exciting experiences for a family. But it can also come with a lot of challenges, especially when it comes to traveling. Whether you’re visiting friends and family or embarking on a vacation during paternity leave, the prospect of taking your little one on a trip may feel daunting. However, the good news is that newborns are incredibly adaptable, and with the right bedtime routine, your baby can travel just as easily as you do.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best sleep tips for babies while traveling, how to maintain a comforting bedtime routine, and how to handle any sleep disruptions that may arise.
Travel Sleep Tips for Babies: What Every Parent Should Know
Although traveling with a little one may seem challenging, newborn babies are often less concerned about where they sleep, rather are more concerned that their trusted caregiver is close to them To the newborn baby you are their base, their home and the environment they want and need – the actual place is far less important.
Let us first consider how to support your little one during the journey…
If you are traveling by car, make sure to take regular breaks as baby should not be in a car seat for too long. Although babies can sleep in car seats for short periods of time, they should not sleep in their car sear whilst the car is stationary and instead should be moved to a flat, firm surface.
If you are traveling by aeroplane, then a baby wrap or carrier such as the Izmi can be a great option. This can be particularly beneficial whilst in the airport and boarding or disembarking from the aeroplane. It allows baby to be close to you (which can help them to feel safe and secure) whilst keeping your hands free for supporting older children or carrying belongings.. Just be sure to follow the safe carrier guidelines for baby wearing.
Baby Travel Sleep Routine: Adjusting to New Environments
Young babies often find it easy to fall asleep whilst on an aeroplane – the natural humming noise of the aircraft, can sound very similar to the natural white noise that babies hear whilst inside of the womb. As young newborn babies are not yet impacted by a light or dark environment (they do not begin making the light sensitive sleep hormone Melatonin until around 8 – 12 weeks) they can be less impacted to changes in time zone than older children and adults.
Instead, they respond well to the loving touch of their parent. So, when it is safe to do so, any body contact and reassurance can be advantageous. Baby Massage is an excellent way to promote relaxation, bonding and feelings of security, while also promoting infant sleep as it promotes the release of oxytocin in both the massage provider and the infant.
As per sleep guidelines, it is important to never fall asleep on a chair with a baby. On a long-haul flight, consider taking turns supporting baby with another adult (if travelling together) or asking the airline staff to supply a baby bassinet compatible with their aircraft. The Rockit Wooshh is a portable sound device that may not only soothe baby due to its womb like sounds, but help to prevent other noises in the aeroplane waking baby.
Many babies find comfort in sucking - whether it's a bottle, breast, dummy or clean finger - as it helps them feel relaxed and content. This can be particularly important during a flight, as changes in air pressure may impact their ears, which sucking offers relief for. If breastfeeding, this offers a convenient and accessible solution during the flight. For bottle fed babies, consider bringing spare sterilised bottles and formula in case of any delays. A dummy or clean finger can also be useful when your baby is not feeding, but still needs support with the pressure.
Bedtime While Traveling: Creating a Relaxing Routine
Once you are at your destination, it can be helpful to create as similar a bedtime routine, as you do at home. Babies love routine and consistency as it helps them feel secure and predict what's coming next. They can be particularly sensitive to smell, so it may be useful to bring the same washing powder from home, so their sheets smell familiar and comforting.
A lovely bedtime routine starting with either a bath (the warm water can feel reassuring as reminds them of the womb) or baby massage (naturally promotes relaxation and sleep), followed by clean nappy and sleepwear, can support babies to know that sleep time is approaching.
Safe Sleep Guidelines When Traveling
It is important that safe sleep guidelines are followed whilst traveling, just as they are at home. If using a travel cot, do not be tempted to pad it with pillows or extra bedding – babies are safest on a flat firm surface.
Swaddling may promote sleep by creating a womb-like sensory experience and preventing the startle reflex from waking the infant. It's important that the swaddle is not too tight at the hips and not too loose around the face. A product such as the Love to Dream Stage 1 is a good choice as it is easy to put on, is flush to the body and is approved by the Hip Dysplasia Society. The arms up position promotes babies' natural ability to soothe, which may be even more useful whilst in an unfamiliar location. Again, Safe Sleep Guidelines must be followed. A swaddle must only be used when baby is placed on their back, unable to roll and is in an independent sleep environment.
Whether you choose to support baby to sleep in their own sleep environment (such as travel cot) or co-sleep with your little one, it is important to follow the Safe Sleep Guidelines in your jurisdiction.
Dealing with Sleep Disruptions
Help your baby adjust to day and night cycles by keeping the sleep environment dark during the night and bright during the day. A red nightlight can be useful during nighttime feeds, as it won’t disrupt your baby’s sleep hormones.
If your baby is still asleep at 8 a.m., gently wake them up and offer their first feed of the day by a window to expose them to natural sunlight. This will help cue their body that it’s time to start the day.
Sometimes, even with the best planning, your baby might have trouble sleeping in a new environment. If this happens, baby massage followed by gentle rocking bum pats or whilst saying ‘shhhhhhhhhh’ can help them relax. You can also use a portable sound machine like the Wooshh to block out noises that might disrupt your baby’s sleep.
Traveling with a newborn doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and a consistent bedtime routine, your baby will feel secure and comfortable, no matter where you are. Follow these simple tips and enjoy your travels with your little one!
Author - Susan Wallace
Susan Wallace is a highly experienced Baby Sleep Expert and Potty-Training Consultant, as well as a Baby Yoga and Massage Educator. As the founder of Settled Petals, she provides gentle, expert guidance to help families establish healthy sleep habits and confident potty training.
With over 20 years of experience and qualifications from Cambridge University and a Master’s in Social Work, Susan has supported thousands of families worldwide. Passionate about children’s well-being, she offers one-on-one support and professional training, empowering parents with practical, nurturing solutions for a more restful and settled start to life.