So you’ve been working on baby sleep training with your little bundle.  Things are progressing along.  You look at the calendar and realize you have travels coming up.  Or you need to take an unexpected trip.  What do you do?

Is it possible to keep the baby sleep training running smoothly?  Yes!  If you’re going on a trip with your wee one anytime you need to read up on what to do to keep up with baby sleep training while traveling.

Baby Sleep Training While Traveling

Traveling is much different when a baby is in tow.  It’s not as simple as packing a suitcase and hopping on a plane.  It’s also not as easy as crashing in any ‘ol hotel or filling your day up with endless activities. There are many things to consider when it comes to traveling with infants.

First you need to make sure you have all the necessary baby gear on hand for your trip.  You probably have to pack an extra bag for all of that!

When it comes to lodging you have to consider a place that is child friendly.  The place needs to come with kid friendly amenities like pack and plays, strollers, and rooms big enough to accommodate a family comfortably.

If you’re staying with someone you need to either bring items or make sure they have baby gear on hand to borrow.  

Sounds like a lot of planning and coordinating right?  The things you do to prepare for your trip are the same things you can do when it comes to baby sleep training and traveling.  With a little planning ahead of time you will be equipped and know what to do for you and your baby.

Let’s dive in and look at what baby sleep training prep work is needed for smooth travels.

Prepping For Traveling With Your Baby

Prepping for baby sleep training before you leave on vacation is similar to packing a suitcase.

When you try to figure out what to pack you probably make a list, think about your schedule of events and the weather.

The same goes for baby sleep training.  Before you hop on the plane do a little planning ahead of time so you can keep baby sleep training running smoothly when you arrive at your destination.  

Here are some things to consider for your little one and their sleep as you head out to travel:

• Pack familiar soothing items:  Make sure you have all the tools your baby needs for a good night’s sleep while away from home.  Pack the lovey’s, blankies, pacifiers, or anything else she needs to fall asleep.

• Practice sleeping in a different spot:  If you plan to take along your pack and play or travel crib help your baby get used to sleeping in it before your trip.  A few days before take-off set up the new slumber spot and help your baby fall asleep in that.

• Pre-plan your schedule:  Try to plan out your itinerary as best you can so you know when to work in naps and bedtime.  Routines will be off but little ones still need their sleep.  Fitting them into your plans will help.

• Consider travel accommodations:  Where you stay is important to a baby’s sleep.  If you are staying in a hotel and need more space consider getting a suite or room with separate sleeping quarters.  Look for family-friendly lodging.  If you’re staying with friends or family ask about a quiet space to let your baby sleep.

Making Baby Sleep Training Work While Traveling

Some say going on vacation with kids is basically taking care of them in a different location.  Going on a trip with kids isn’t all rest and relaxation, you still need to take care of them!  But, by continuing baby sleep training while traveling you may get more opportunities to relax!  A well-rested baby allows you to enjoy the things you’re doing while traveling.

So how do you get a well rested baby?  Check out these tips:

Recreate the bedtime routine:  If possible try to stick to normal bedtimes as best as you can.  When it is baby’s bedtime follow the same routine as you would at home.  This is where your soothing arsenal from home will really help.  If your child has the same blanket, songs, or nightlight they will be able to drift off to sleep with success. Falling asleep with familiarity ensures your baby will be well-rested.

Try to work in one nap:  Traveling obviously throws off your daily routine.  That’s okay, it’s good to see new sights or visit loved ones.  While you are busy touring around try to fit in a nap time at some point in the day.  If your baby naps twice a day going down to one is fine temporarily.  

Getting shut-eye after a busy day of stimulation is good for your baby.  If they are overtired they get cranky.  And for some babies, they might have a harder time falling asleep if they skipped naps. Naptime gives you a much-needed refresher so you can enjoy your trip.

Be flexible:  When you’re not in your regular environment flexibility is key.  You might not know how your baby will be in a new place.  If he is extra fussy you might need to change plans to accommodate his needs.  If he’s short on sleep you might need to take an extra nap one day.

Likewise, if you have a busy schedule and can’t get to a quiet spot for a regular nap give yourself grace if the only naps take place in a car seat or stroller that day.

Babies are unpredictable even when they are on vacation.  Being flexible for them and yourself will help you make the most of your vacation.

Don’t fall on old habits:  All parents have those vices they used with their baby to help them get to sleep, eat, or play.  As tempting as it might be to indulge in old habits if it means getting to sleep faster, for example, try not to give in.  Doing so will undo all the progress you made while baby sleep training.

Keep going with your good habits that help you and your baby no matter where you are.  It will make your transition to normalcy after your trip go much smoother too.

Switching Back To Life At Home

So you landed home, made some great memories, and are ready to get back normal.  There might be an adjustment period for you and baby.  Here are some ideas to help you get back at it quickly:

• Get back on schedule:  As soon as you get home follow your normal routine.  This will help set the tone to your day and get your baby adjusted quickly.  Anything you did differently, like all naps in a baby carrier, can stop.

• Take a step back:  If you notice signs of baby sleep training regression you might want to take a step back.  Revisit beginning steps you took to get your baby back to where he or she should be.  It’s normal to have setbacks when life changes briefly.

• Give yourself a pat on the back:  You survived traveling with a baby!  No matter how your trip went you should be proud of yourself for making it work, it’s not easy.

With a little prepping and planning you can keep up with baby sleep training while training.  Keep your baby well-rested and you all will have a fabulous trip!