Co-Sleeping While Traveling: Tips for Hotels and Vacations
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Planning a family getaway with your little one? If your baby is used to co-sleeping, you might be wondering how to maintain that comforting routine while staying in hotels or vacation rentals. Don’t worry — with a bit of planning, you can enjoy your trip while keeping your baby safe and well-rested. 🍼✈️
Here’s your ultimate guide to co-sleeping while traveling — with tips to make your vacation stress-free, safe, and sleep-friendly!
🤱 What Is Co-Sleeping?
Co-sleeping refers to a baby sleeping close to a parent, either in the same bed (bed-sharing) or in the same room (room-sharing). Many parents co-sleep to make nighttime feeding easier, soothe their baby, and build a secure attachment.
Traveling can throw off your usual sleep routine, but with a few simple adjustments, co-sleeping can still be a great option — even away from home.
🧳 Before You Travel: Plan Ahead
Here’s what you should do before hitting the road:
✅ 1. Choose Baby-Friendly Accommodations
Look for hotels or rentals that are:
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Family-friendly
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Have cribs or extra beds available
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Allow safe sleep arrangements
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Quiet and dark for better sleep
✨ Bonus tip: Call ahead to request a crib or ask about the bed size if you’re planning to co-sleep.
✅ 2. Pack Familiar Sleep Items
Bring along:
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Baby’s favorite blanket or sleep sack (not loose bedding!)
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White noise machine or app
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Baby monitor (if in a suite or Airbnb)
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Travel bed rail or portable co-sleeper (if bed-sharing)
These comforts will help your baby feel safe and secure in a new environment.
🛏️ Safe Co-Sleeping in a Hotel: What to Know
Safety always comes first — especially when bed-sharing. Here’s how to do it right:
🧼 1. Check the Bed Setup
Remove any thick comforters, extra pillows, or heavy blankets. A firm mattress with minimal bedding is best.
👶 2. Use a Travel Bassinet or Co-Sleeper
If bed-sharing makes you nervous, consider a portable co-sleeper or travel crib that fits next to your bed — keeping baby close but safe.
🚫 3. Never Let Baby Sleep Alone on a Hotel Bed
Beds are often higher than at home, and babies can roll. Always supervise or place baby in a safe sleep space when not in bed with you.
🌙 Keeping the Routine While Away
Babies thrive on routine — even on vacation! Here's how to stay consistent:
⏰ Stick to Bedtime
Try to follow your usual nap and bedtime schedule. A tired baby = cranky vacation.
📖 Keep the Bedtime Ritual
Bring books, a sound machine, or anything you normally use to wind down. Familiarity will help them fall asleep easier.
💤 Expect Some Sleep Disruption
Travel can be exciting (and overstimulating) for babies. Be patient — a few off nights are normal.
✈️ Tips for Co-Sleeping on the Plane or During Road Trips
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Use a baby carrier to help baby nap during travel
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Dress baby in cozy sleepwear
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Try to schedule flights or drives around nap time
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Bring blackout covers or car window shades for a sleep-friendly environment
📍Best Travel Gear for Co-Sleeping Families
Here are a few parent-approved products:
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Portable travel bassinets like the Chicco LullaGo or BabyBjörn Travel Crib
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Inflatable bed rails for hotel beds
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White noise machines (battery-powered or apps)
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Sleep sacks instead of blankets
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Travel blackout curtains for bright hotel rooms
💬 Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Co-Sleep on Vacation!
Traveling with a baby who co-sleeps doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and the right gear, you can enjoy your vacation and help your baby sleep soundly by your side.
Whether you’re headed to a beach resort, a cozy Airbnb, or grandma’s house — these tips will help your baby feel right at home, wherever you are.
