Holiday Sleep Tips for New Parents
Travelling with a baby during the holidays?
Whether it’s your first time away with a newborn or you’re a seasoned parent packing for a toddler, setting up a safe sleep environment can feel overwhelming. There’s the packing. The logistics. The routines turned upside down. And of course… the sleep.
While we can’t promise every nap will go to plan, we can help you tick one big thing off your mental load: creating a safe, comfy sleep space wherever you’re staying.
Here’s how to do it - hotel, Airbnb, grandma’s house and beyond.
1. Check the Cot or Bassinet
This is your starting point.
If you’ve brought your own portable cot or travel bassinet - amazing. You know it meets Australian safety standards, and it’s familiar for your baby.
If you’re borrowing one or using a cot supplied by your accommodation, here’s what to look for:
- ✅ Firm, flat mattress (no soft spots or sagging)
- ✅ No gaps between the mattress and the cot/bassinet sides
- ✅ No loose, small, or moving parts
- ❌ Avoid anything too old or retro - standards change
Cots and bassinets sold in Australia over the last few years generally meet current safety guidelines. But vintage hand-me-downs? Not always.
2. Keep Bedding Simple - and Safe
Let’s be clear: when it comes to baby bedding, less is more. Overdoing it can actually increase risks.
Here’s what your baby needs:
- A fitted sheet on a firm mattress
- No extra padding or bumpers
- No toys, pillows, or loose blankets
Ideally, the fitted sheet you use includes a built-in waterproof layer, but you can also use a separate waterproof mattress protector too. This helps keep the sleep surface hygienic (especially important when travelling) and reduces CO₂ rebreathing risks from soft or absorbent layers.
💡 Our waterproof fitted sheets are INPAA approved and designed for safe sleep - at home or away. They look and feel like thick, regular cotton sheets, but with a hidden superhero layer inside.
3. Assess the Room Setup
Safe sleep isn’t just about the cot - it’s also about where it’s placed in the room.
When you arrive, do a quick hazard check. Look for:
- ⚠️ Blind cords, curtain ties, lamps, or wall decor nearby
- ⚠️ Side tables or furniture baby could grab or pull
- ✅ Enough space between the cot and any hazards
If you need to move furniture around to make the sleep space safer - do it. This isn’t about styling, it’s about safety.
4. Don’t Forget Airflow
This one’s often missed - but it’s crucial.
Make sure the room has adequate ventilation and safe temperature control:
- Open a window, keep the door open and/or use a gentle fan
- Use air conditioning to keep things cool if you're in a warm climate
- Avoid sealing up the room completely while baby sleeps
- Good airflow = safer sleep, especially in unfamiliar or stuffy environments
What Should a Safe Sleep Space Include While Travelling?
Here’s your quick checklist:
- ✅ Cot or bassinet meets safety standards
- ✅ Firm, flat, snug-fitting mattress
- ✅ Fitted sheet with waterproof layer
- ✅ No pillows, bumpers, padding or toys
- ✅ No gaps or loose parts
- ✅ Cot placed away from cords and hazards
- ✅ Good ventilation and comfortable room temp
Lastly, You’ve Got This
Travelling with a baby over the holidays is… a lot. There’s no sugar-coating it. Sleep will likely get messy. Routines will be interrupted. You wouldn't be the first to question why you ever left the house!
But if you can tick off “safe sleep space” the moment you arrive, that’s one big win.
It means fewer risks, a bit more peace of mind, and one less thing to worry about at 2am when you’re trying to settle a jet lagged baby with one eye open.
FAQ: Baby Sleep While Travelling
Is it safe for a baby to sleep in a travel cot?
Yes. If the cot meets Australian safety standards, has a firm, flat mattress, and fits snugly with no gaps or hazards.
What bedding should I use when travelling with a baby?
Use a fitted sheet over a firm mattress. Avoid pillows, bumpers, or padding. A waterproof layer is ideal for hygiene and added safety.
How can I help my baby sleep better while away from home?
Recreate their usual sleep environment as much as possible. Stick to familiar routines, use your usual bedding (if you can), and make sure the space is safe and quiet with good airflow.