9 Expert Tips to Help Toddlers Sleep While Traveling
Traveling with toddlers can be an exciting adventure — but when it comes to getting them to sleep, well, that can be a challenge. Unfamiliar environments, disrupted routines, and new time zones can make it tough for little ones to settle down and drift off. Whether you’re taking a road trip or flying across the country, these nine tips will help your toddler get the rest they need while on the go.
1. Stick to a Familiar Routine
Consistency is key when helping toddlers sleep while traveling. Try to stick to your child’s usual bedtime routine as closely as possible — whether that includes a bedtime story, a favorite stuffed animal, or a soothing lullaby.
Bring familiar comfort items like their favorite blanket, pajamas, or a portable white noise machine to recreate their home environment. Keeping familiar rituals intact signals to your toddler that it’s time to wind down, even when you're in a new place.
2. Choose a Comfortable Travel Car Seat
If your toddler will be sleeping during a long car ride or flight, a comfortable and supportive car seat is essential. A lightweight car seat that provides the right head and neck support can make all the difference.
Pro Tip: The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat is a compact, portable car seat that’s perfect for travel. It’s FAA-approved for airplane use and fits easily in cars, making it a must-have for families on the go. Learn more about the Pico here.
3. Time Your Travel Wisely
Plan your travel schedule around your toddler’s natural sleep patterns. If possible, schedule flights or long drives during nap times or bedtime to increase the chances of them sleeping through the journey.
For early morning or red-eye flights, dress your toddler in comfortable pajamas to encourage sleep. If driving, try to depart just before nap time to align with their regular rest schedule.
Check out our tips and tricks for surviving a red-eye flight here!
4. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Whether you’re in a hotel room or staying with family, aim to make the sleep environment as relaxing as possible. Use blackout curtains or portable blinds to block out light, and bring a travel-friendly white noise machine to drown out unfamiliar sounds.
For car rides, a portable car seat toddler option like the Pico helps ensure a cozy and safe sleep space. On planes, consider using a travel pillow or inflatable footrest to provide additional comfort.
5. Manage Time Zone Changes
If you’re traveling across time zones, help your toddler adjust gradually. For short trips, stick to your home time zone. For longer stays, shift their schedule in small increments a few days before you leave.
Expose your child to natural light during the day and maintain familiar bedtime cues to help their internal clock adjust. Patience is key — allow a few days for your toddler to fully adapt to the new time zone.
6. Pack Sleep Essentials
Having the right sleep essentials on hand can make all the difference when traveling with toddlers. Here are a few must-haves:
- Travel car seat (like the WAYB Pico for car and airplane use)
- Favorite blanket or stuffed animal
- White noise machine or app
- Portable blackout curtains
- Comfortable pajamas
- Sleep mask for light-sensitive toddlers
Keeping these essentials easily accessible can help ease transitions between home and travel environments.
7. Encourage Physical Activity Before Rest
Just like at home, letting your toddler burn off energy before sleep on a trip can increase their chances of settling down. Plan active playtime before you hit the road or board a flight to help them feel tired and ready for rest.
During long trips, take regular breaks to let your child stretch, run, and explore. For air travel, while it may be tempting to board when they call for families, keeping them active in the terminal before boarding can be a game changer. Our trick is to have 1 parent board with the necessary bags and the other board towards the end. Adults and kids benefit from physical activity as it helps regulate sleep patterns and makes naps or bedtime easier.
8. Use Calming Techniques
If your toddler struggles to relax in new environments, calming techniques can help ease them into sleep. Try gentle back rubs, slow breathing exercises, or guided imagery to help them unwind.
Lavender-scented travel sprays or essential oils (applied sparingly) can also promote relaxation. Consider using a familiar lullaby or bedtime story to provide a sense of security and comfort.
9. Be Flexible and Patient
Despite your best efforts, travel can disrupt even the best sleepers. While it may feel distressing if your toddler struggles to settle, remember that they will eventually. Offer comfort and reassurance, and don’t stress if their sleep isn’t perfect.
Give yourself grace and adjust expectations — especially during the first few nights. A well-rested toddler (and parent) is the ultimate goal, even if it takes a bit of trial and error to get there.
Sleep Comfortably with the Right Gear
A smooth travel experience starts with having the right gear. The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat is designed to keep toddlers comfortable and secure while on the move. Lightweight and easy to install, it’s perfect for road trips, airplane travel, and everything in between.
If you're planning more family adventures, check out our blog on 7 Must-Have Essentials for Traveling with Kids for even more helpful tips.
With these expert strategies and the right travel car seat, you can help your toddler get the sleep they need—no matter where your travels take you!