Summer Travel and Sleep: How to Keep Your Child Rested on the Go

Jun 27

Making memories without sacrificing rest

Summer brings sunshine, travel plans, and so many sweet opportunities to make memories—but if you’re anything like the families I work with, it can also bring a whole lot of worry about what it might do to your child’s sleep.

You’ve worked hard to build rhythms at home. The last thing you want is for it to unravel the moment you zip up your suitcase.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to choose between good sleep and a fun-filled summer. With a few simple shifts, your family can enjoy time away and come home without starting from scratch.

Let’s walk through a few of my go-to tips for preserving sleep—without missing out on the moments that matter most.

1. Routines Matter More Than Schedules

When your days look different (and they will), keep your evening routine familiar. Think: bath, PJs, books, cuddles, sound machine—whatever your child is used to at home. Predictable steps help your child’s brain feel safe and ready for sleep, even in a new place.

Pro tip: Pack a “sleep bag” with sleep essentials—like their favorite lovey, a sleep sack, sound machine, and a familiar bedtime story.

2. Handle Time Changes with Grace

If you’re crossing time zones:

For short trips (3 days or less), it’s often easiest to stay on your home schedule as much as you can.
For longer stays, adjust bedtime in small steps (15–30 minutes) either before you leave or once you arrive.

Either way, be patient. Your child’s body clock will catch up—it just takes a little time and consistency.

3. Naps Might Look Different—and That’s Okay

Will every nap be perfect while traveling? Probably not. But some rest is better than no rest.

If your little one naps in a car seat, stroller, or baby carrier, that’s okay—try to protect at least one quality nap per daywhen possible. If naps are short or skipped, you can always offer an earlier bedtime to keep things on track.

4. Create a Cozy, Familiar Sleep Space

Even if you're in a hotel, Airbnb, or family guest room, your child’s sleep space can still feel safe and consistent:

Use blackout curtains or tape garbage bags to the window if needed
Bring your white noise machine
Keep bedtime lighting and temperature similar to home
Stick with your normal routine to signal that it’s time to wind down

5. Be Flexible—But Not Forgetful

Summer is meant to be fun, and sleep doesn’t have to be perfect every single day. The goal is to hold onto your rhythms without holding on too tightly. One off night or skipped nap won’t undo your progress—but several in a row might.

If sleep gets off track, don’t panic. Go back to your foundations, be consistent, and give your child time to settle back in once you're home.

Final Thoughts

Sleep doesn’t have to be the first thing sacrificed when you travel. You can build beautiful summer memories and protect your child’s rest—and you don’t have to do it alone.

If sleep has been a stressor in your home (travel or not), I’m here to help. I offer personalized, shame-free support that meets your family where you are—and helps you get to where you want to be.

Because restful nights aren’t just a dream. They’re within reach, even on vacation.