Travelling with a baby can be a wonderful experience, but sleep disruption is a common concern for parents. Whether you’re heading to a sunny destination abroad or enjoying a staycation, there are simple ways to help your baby sleep soundly while away from home.
Holiday Sleep Essentials Checklist for Baby
Packing the right sleep essentials can make a big difference to your baby’s comfort and routine. Here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare:
✔ Slumbersac 0.5 Tog summer sleeping bag
✔ Favourite comforter or soft toy
✔ Portable blackout blind or travel curtain
✔ Baby monitor (ideal for villas or larger spaces)
✔ Familiar sleepwear and bedding
✔ White noise machine or sleep app
✔ Travel cot or pop-up crib (if not provided)
✔ Lightweight muslin or swaddle for layering
Familiar smells and routines, along with a consistent sleep environment, will help your baby settle more easily wherever you're staying.
How can I keep my baby’s sleep routine on holiday?
Consistency is key, even in a new environment. While replicating your exact routine might not always be possible, sticking to familiar elements can make bedtime feel more predictable. Try to include:
➤ A warm bath
➤ Teeth brushing
➤ A quiet bedtime story in a dimly lit room
These small steps signal that it’s time for sleep, even when you’re away from home.
How do I wind down my child for bed while on holiday?
A calm, screen-free wind-down helps the whole family prepare for rest. Gentle activities like colouring, puzzles, or reading can soothe your child and ease the transition to sleep. These quiet moments can become a comforting part of your holiday rhythm.
Why does my baby struggle to sleep in a new place?
It's completely normal for babies and toddlers to feel unsettled in unfamiliar surroundings. Offer extra reassurance, especially at bedtime. Staying nearby, offering cuddles, and using familiar items like their favourite toy or sleeping bag can help them feel safe and secure.
How can I reset my baby’s body clock when travelling?
Natural light plays a key role in regulating your baby’s circadian rhythm. Each morning, open the curtains and spend some time outdoors. This helps the whole family adjust to a new time zone or schedule more easily.
What if we’re changing time zones?
Jet lag can affect babies just as it does adults. When travelling across multiple time zones, changes to your child’s internal clock may lead to restless nights or early wake-ups. Here are some tips to help ease the adjustment:
➤ Shift bedtime slowly – Adjust bedtime by 15–30 minutes in the days before your trip
➤ Prioritise morning light – Natural daylight helps reset their sleep-wake cycle
➤ Keep naps short on arrival day – Encourage normal bedtime by limiting long naps
➤ Stick to familiar cues – Keep your usual bedtime routine and use your Slumbersac sleeping bag for consistency
With a bit of patience, most babies adjust within 2–5 days.
What should my baby wear to sleep in hot weather?
Warm summer nights, especially abroad, can make it harder for little ones to settle. Choosing breathable, lightweight sleepwear is key to keeping your baby comfortable and safe through the night.
✔ Slumbersac’s 0.5 Tog Summer Baby Sleeping Bags are ideal for hot weather
✔ Made from ultra-soft bamboo muslin for natural temperature regulation
✔ Available in a range of adorable, holiday-friendly designs
They’re the perfect sleep essential to pack for your summer break.
Should I bring my baby’s sleeping bag on holiday?
Definitely. If your baby uses a Slumbersac at home, bringing the same sleeping bag on holiday provides a strong sense of continuity. The familiar feel and scent can help them settle more quickly at bedtime, no matter where you’re staying.
What if my baby’s sleep routine changes on holiday?
It’s normal for sleep routines to drift a little while away - from later bedtimes to shorter naps. Try not to worry. Once you return to your usual environment, their routine will likely fall back into place. And don’t forget, it’s your holiday too, so give yourself permission to relax and go with the flow.
