As a mom to three young girls (9, 7, and 2 years old), and a Family NP and IBCLC, I am constantly sharing my own summer fun experiences as well as answering daily questions from parents in Nurture by NAPS. I flew with my first baby when she was 6 weeks old, endured a 13-hour car ride with two under two, and I am all about enjoying summer, whether it’s traveling or exploring the local outdoor sun and water spots in my hometown of Boston.
Before we dive into the most popular question I get - managing sleep when traveling in the summer - click here for a free download on all you need to know about sun and water safety this summer, whether you have a newborn or a toddler. Okay, now that you’ve done that…
Sleep, in general, can be one of the most significant stressors for parents, and when you add travel or summer outings into the mix, it multiplies. You finally got your baby sleeping through the night, or you’re on a consistent nap schedule, or your toddler stopped asking for extra sips of water at 1 a.m.... And now, you’re about to travel. Is all your hard work going out the window?
Listen, it’s so important to live your life. I tell this to all new parents, especially after their first baby. Get out early and often, accept help, enjoy the company of friends and family… you know, live. The same goes for traveling. Are we going to veer from our established routine? Yes, probably. Will we bend or break our own rules? Likely. But it’s all okay. Traveling means seeing family, making connections, experiencing life, and let's make sure those benefits outweigh the risk that sleep might slightly derail. And if it does, remember, you can always get back on track when you’re back home.
With that in mind, here is my best advice for traveling, broken down by age/stage. No matter what stage, my biggest advice is to feed your baby or child and not let them get overtired... meaning, ensure sleep happens, even if it’s on the go. We’re truly back to our newborn basics: making sure they get enough calories so they aren’t “hangry,” and that they get some form of sleep (even if it’s just in a stroller ride) so they aren’t overtired and cranky. Here's the lowdown on snoozin' situations:
Infants (Newborns up to 3 months)
Traveling with newborns is surprisingly manageable. Their simple routine of eating and sleeping makes them adaptable travel companions. Ensure frequent feeds every 2-3 hours to keep them content and prevent overtiredness by prioritizing naps whenever they need them. Whether flying or driving, prioritize comfort with a cozy carrier or well-timed stops for feeds and diaper changes.
Babies (4 months to 1+ years)
At this stage, babies may have settled into a more predictable schedule, which makes travel planning easier but still requires flexibility. Stick to feeding routines to prevent meltdowns, and incorporate naps into your day, whether in a portable crib at your destination or a stroller on the go. Bedtime rituals are crucial; mimic familiar routines to ease the transition to sleep in new environments.
Toddlers (2-3 years)
Toddlerhood brings its own challenges with bedtime battles and newfound independence. Maintain consistency with bedtime routines to minimize disruptions, even when away from home. Stick to established routines as much as possible to help them feel secure amidst new surroundings. Be firm yet gentle in guiding them through the excitement of travel while ensuring they get enough rest.
Preschool-Aged Kids
For older children who may no longer nap, travel can be exhilarating but exhausting. Offer quiet time to recharge during the day, whether at your accommodation or a peaceful spot away from the crowd. Respect their bedtime to prevent overtiredness, adjusting slightly for special occasions but maintaining a sense of routine to promote a restful night's sleep.
And a word of advice for all ages…
Throughout childhood, prioritize your child's needs for food and rest to prevent meltdowns and maintain a positive travel experience. Remember, travel introduces change, so embrace flexibility and lower expectations. It's okay if routines slip; focus on enjoying the journey and the time spent together.
Traveling with kids is about more than just reaching your destination; it's about creating lasting memories and nurturing their sense of adventure. Embrace the unpredictability of travel, and don't be afraid to deviate from routines occasionally. Whether you achieve perfect sleep or encounter a few bumps along the way, give yourself grace and enjoy the journey. After all, the best part of traveling is the stories you bring back home.
About the Author:
Emily Silver is a Family Nurse Practitioner, IBCLC, mom to 3 girls (9, 7, and 2 years), and the co-founder of NAPS. Through NAPS Emily educates expecting parents, supports them in all things feeding and sleep, and facilitates new mom and working mom support groups. Emily best supports families through NAPS by pulling from her vast medical background as a former Labor and Delivery RN and now NP and through her own personal experiences as it relates to pregnancy and parenting. You can count on Emily for some solid medical advice merged with some real-life parenting advice, and always served judgment-free. 