Naps While Traveling
Traveling with a baby can be really exciting. Seeing the wonder in their eyes as you explore new places is one of those magic moments only a parent can understand!
However, if you have to travel during nap time (which is almost a guarantee), it can also add a layer of stress you didn’t anticipate when planning the trip. Luckily, I’ve done my fair share of traveling with babies and have found ways to help optimize their sleep, even when we are on-the-go!
If you DO have the opportunity to book a flight before or after nap time, great. Do that! But chances are you just have to work with what’s available, and that’s okay!
Tricks for Napping On-the-Go
If you do need to have your baby take a nap on the go, don’t stress! Here are 3 tips to help:
Keep nap time as close to their normal nap time as possible. Your baby has likely formed internal sleep patterns around their normal nap time, so sticking to that time — regardless of location — will help increase their chances of taking a good nap. Don’t forget to take into consideration time zone changes:)
Bring their sleep triggers! Whether your on a plane, in the car or a combination of the two, bringing sleep triggers like their sound machine, sleep sack, pacifier, etc. will let their brain know that it’s time to sleep, and help make their nap more comfortable.
Plan for an early bedtime the day of traveling. Unless you birthed a unicorn, chances are naps will be shorter than normal, or potentially skipped altogether. If this is the case, the best way to make up for lost day sleep is to plan for an early bedtime to help your baby get the extra sleep that they need.
With all of this being said, vacations are meant to be enjoyed. So, do your best but your baby misses their naps, stays out later than normal, or surprises you and sleeps all day with zero wake time, don’t stress about it! If you’ve taught your baby how to sleep, they’ll get right back on track when you reach your destination.