Travelling with a little one can be an incredible and memorable experience – but it can also bring up a whole lot of mixed emotions. New places, unfamiliar noises and disrupted routines can make bedtime a challenge while on holidays with a baby or toddler.
The good news is that with a bit of preparation, you can help your baby settle in a portacot, so you can get some much-needed rest and relaxation!
In this guide, I’ll take you through simple steps for helping your baby adjust to sleeping in a travel cot, and reduce the unexpected challenges that come with baby sleep on the go.
Choose the right portacot
Travel cots are a must-have when travelling with a baby, and while they may feel like just another item to pack, choosing one that meets the Australian and New Zealand Safety Standards is really important to ensure your little one sleeps safely and comfortably while away from home.
Here’s what to look for when purchasing a portacot:
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Check the foldable cot meets Australian Standard AS/NZS 2195 (look for labels, paperwork or check with the retailer before purchasing).
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Check and follow the cot’s specific weight limit (keep this in mind as your baby/toddler grows).
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Only use the mattress supplied by the manufacturer and do not add a second mattress or any extra padding.
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If you’ve been given a secondhand portacot, ensure it’s no more than 10 years old and has not been recalled, as safe sleep products and guidelines continue to be reviewed and may change.
When setting up your portacot:
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Read over the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
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For babies 6 months and under, the safest place for their portacot is in the same room where you’ll be sleeping.
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Make sure the cot base is flat and stable.
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Confirm all sides and locks are securely in place.
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Only use the mattress designed for your specific portacot and make sure it is secured and tight with no more than the diameter of 2 fingers between the mattress and side.
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Keep the cot free of any toys or blankets and only use a swaddle or sleeping bag.
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Ensure the portacot is set up away from any hazards like furniture or wall hangings, keeping a minimum distance of 30cm.
When it’s time to put your baby down for a nap, always place them on their back.
It’s also important to continue to check the portacot for damage, tears or broken parts and to stop using it if anything is worn, loose or doesn’t lock properly.
Test it out before you leave
To help your little one adjust, set up the pack and play at home or at a friend’s house for a trial run to help ease the adjustment – even if it’s just for a nap during the day. This can be a useful way to familiarise your baby with their new sleep environment and take out the stress of having them sleep in it for the first time while on holidays.
Bring familiar sleep items
Pack their most-used swaddles, pyjamas or sleeping bags and a white noise machine for familiar sleep associations. Sleep with their cot sheets the night before to help transfer your scent or use the same cot sheet they have in their cot at home. This familiar smell can give your baby an extra sense of security while sleeping in an unfamiliar space.
Take away distractions
Remove any distractions from the room – this includes bright lights, alarm clocks or other items that can be visually stimulating. The goal is to keep the sleep environment dark and calm to support your baby in settling and preparing for sleep. To help with this, use a travel blockout blind to darken the room, or create your own with a black sheet with pegs.
Keep your sleep routine the same
If your nightly sleep signal is ‘it's time to sleep, love you’, or if you usually read a book before bed, continue to follow the same process you would at home. Put your baby to bed at the same time you would at home (or as close to it as you can).
It’s also important to make sure their sleepwear is suitable for the room temperature, as travel cots that sit directly on the ground can be cold, which can lead to sleep struggles. If you’re travelling overseas or to a different time zone, grab a copy of our Baby & Toddler Travel Guide to learn valuable tips for managing significant time zone changes and minimising baby and toddler jet lag.
Keep consistent
It may take a few days for your baby to settle into their new environment or adjusted routine. Stay consistent and be patient with your little one as they adapt to the ongoing change that comes with travel.
Setting off on an adventure with your little one in tow can be a challenge when it comes to sleep. By following these steps, you can help your baby sleep well while you’re travelling. Celebrate the small wins and embrace flexibility if things aren’t going to plan!
Need help preparing for an upcoming trip with a baby?
Our downloadable Baby & Toddler Travel Guide has everything you need in one place! It’s packed with tips for booking baby-friendly accommodation, packing lists, sleeping on the go, avoiding holiday regressions and so much more. Leave home feeling confident you’re giving your baby the best chance of good sleep while enjoying a memorable holiday together.
