When you have a newborn, it can often feel as if everything you used to be able to do suddenly takes on new weight and feels completely overwhelming. No matter that you have a helpful partner, everything from what kind of car seat to buy to trimming your baby’s nails for the first time can be daunting. Even if you’re a well-seasoned traveler, traveling with a newborn can be tricky, especially when it comes to bedtime safety. Here are some tips to keep your newborn safe while sleeping and traveling.
Due to viral illnesses and other infections, most experts suggest limiting your new baby’s exposure to big groups of people until your newborn’s immune system is a little more developed or they’ve already started their vaccinations. Please check with your child’s medical professional about your family’s situation. Some types of travel, such as by car, might be a little safer or easier than perhaps going on a multi-stop plane trip.
How to get newborns to sleep while traveling
Precautions to take when putting your baby to sleep during traveling
Remember: just because you’re sleeping in a new place, the same newborn safety rules apply.
“Travel cribs should still feel the same as a regular crib, with a firm surface to lay on. Call ahead to where you’re staying to make sure the room you’re staying in has adequate space for your travel crib,” spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Dr. Steph Lee, M.D. told us. “Safe sleep recommendations from the AAP include a fitted sheet over the mattress, no fluffy pillows or linens, and to swaddle infants until they’re able to roll over,” added the pediatrician.
