Travelling with Baby: How to Keep Bedtime Routines on Track Anywhere

Travelling with your baby? Discover practical tips to keep bedtime routines consistent on holiday. Learn how sound and familiar comforts make sleep easier, anywhere.

Travelling with your little one is exciting – whether it’s a weekend at the grandparents’ house or a sunny family holiday abroad. But let’s be honest: many parents feel a little anxious about one big thing… sleep.

Babies thrive on routines, and travel can easily throw things off. The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can keep bedtime (mostly) on track and help your baby settle, no matter where you are.

1. Stick to Familiar Bedtime Rituals

Even when you’re away, try to follow the same bedtime ritual you use at home. That might be a bath, pyjamas, story, cuddle, then lights out. Familiarity tells your baby it’s time to sleep, no matter the location.

2. Recreate a Comforting Sleep Environment

Bring a little bit of home with you. Pack your baby’s favourite sleepsuit, blanket, or soft toy. One of the strongest sleep cues, however, is sound. Babies quickly learn to associate certain sounds with sleep, making a portable sound aid invaluable while travelling. Soothing sounds, gentle nightlight options, and even a recording of your own voice can signal that it’s time to settle—whether you’re in a hotel room, at a relative’s, or halfway across the world.

3. Work Around Baby’s Sleep Schedule

Travel often means long days and packed itineraries. Try not to push your baby too far past their usual nap or bedtime. A well-rested baby is more likely to settle easily in a new space.

4. Handle Time Zones Gently

If you’re travelling abroad, don’t stress about adjusting straight away. Gradually shifting bedtime by 15–30 minutes each night can help ease the transition for both you and your baby.

5. Pack Baby Sleep Essentials

Make bedtime packing a priority. Essentials might include:

• Your baby’s sleepsuit (soft, breathable, and familiar)
• A portable sleep aid like SleepaSloth with calming sounds and a nightlight
• A small blackout blind or travel curtain
• A favourite bedtime book or comforter

6. Don’t Worry About Perfection

Not every night will go smoothly—and that’s okay. Babies are adaptable. A little disruption won’t undo all your hard work. Once you’re back home, returning to your normal routine will help reset things quickly.