Before becoming a mom, travel was one of my greatest joys. I loved exploring new places, and I was determined to keep that part of myself alive after having children. So, when my daughter was just a month old, I started talking to my husband about planning our first trip as a family. We decided to go big — we booked flights to Jamaica for when she would be five months old.
Let’s just say… I thought I had it all figured out.
I overpacked. I didn’t plan strategically. I underestimated how different traveling with a baby would be — and honestly, that first trip was tough. We made beautiful memories, but I walked away from it realizing I needed to do things differently next time.
When my daughter was around seven months, we took another trip — this time to Punta Cana. Using everything I learned from the first trip, I prepared with intention. I focused on routines, smart packing, and sleep tools that helped make the whole experience smoother. That trip felt so much better — and gave me the confidence to keep going.
Not long after, I was two months pregnant with my son and our daughter was eight months old when we headed off to Venice, Switzerland, and London. I felt much more prepared… but I hadn’t anticipated the challenges of traveling to a walking-heavy destination with a baby. Navigating cobblestone streets and long walks with a little one in tow was no small feat — but it taught me even more about flexibility and what “realistic” travel looks like as a growing family.
When my son was about 8 months old and my daughter had just turned 2, we traveled to Punta Cana—not once, but twice!
Let me tell you… traveling with two under two is not easy. But with the right tools and routines in place, it doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can actually be a pleasurable experience—not just for you, but for your babies too.
Having a solid sleep foundation and predictable routines made a huge difference for us. Whether it was adjusting nap times or managing sleep in a new environment, it helped our whole family enjoy the trip instead of surviving it.
These experiences inspired me to help other moms feel confident traveling with babies — not because it’s always easy, but because it’s so worth it when you’re prepared.
Traveling with a baby may seem overwhelming, especially when you’ve worked so hard to establish a sleep routine — but it is 100% possible to enjoy your trip AND maintain healthy sleep habits. Whether you’re visiting family, going on a road trip, or flying for the first time, here are practical travel tips to help you and your baby stay rested and happy.
Babies thrive on consistency. While you might not be able to follow your exact schedule to the minute, try to keep the same wake times, nap times, and bedtime routine.
Bring familiar sleep cues like:
If you’re driving, try leaving right before nap time so baby can snooze in the car. If you’re flying, aim for flights that align with your baby’s naps or bedtime.
Pro Tip: For long flights, consider booking seats with a bassinet (if available) or babywear to help baby nap while you stay hands-free.
Before your trip, practice a few on-the-go naps in the stroller, carrier, or car seat. This helps your baby become more flexible and prevents nap battles while you’re out and about.
It’s okay if some naps are shorter — they can catch up later!
Babies sleep best in familiar environments. Recreate your home setup as closely as possible:
Tip: If staying in a hotel, request a crib or bring a travel bassinet.
Travel days are unpredictable. If naps don’t go as planned or bedtime is later than usual, don’t stress. Babies are incredibly adaptable, especially when they return to their normal routine afterward.
Tip: A few off days won’t undo all the progress you’ve made.
If you’re traveling across time zones:
Whether breastfeeding, pumping, or formula-feeding, try to maintain your feeding schedule. Pack extra snacks, bottles, or pumped milk just in case of delays.
Tip: Offer feeds during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure during flights.
Once you arrive, get back into your normal sleep and feeding rhythm as soon as possible. Babies respond well to structure — a few days of consistency can help them adapt quickly.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a baby doesn’t have to mean chaos or sleepless nights. With a little prep and a flexible mindset, you can keep your baby’s sleep on track and enjoy your time away as a family. 💜
Need more help with routines or travel troubleshooting? Check out my sleep guides or book a consult — I’d love to support you!
Sweet Dreams Baby & Mama
