How to Get a Toddler to Sleep While Traveling
Updated June 2026 · 5 min read
Sleep is the thing that makes or breaks a trip with a toddler. New room, new bed, too much excitement, it can all go sideways. Here is how I keep my toddler sleeping well away from home.
Recreate the routine exactly
- Same order every night: bath, pajamas, teeth, books
- Bring their crib sheet and lovey from home, the familiar smell helps
- Keep the wind-down calm, dim lights and no screens before bed
Control the room
- A travel crib or pack-and-play they know is safe
- A portable blackout cover for bright hotel windows
- A travel sound machine to recreate their sleep noise
- A fan to keep the room cool
Handle time zones and naps
- Shift bedtime gradually if you cross time zones
- Protect at least one solid nap, an overtired toddler sleeps worse
- Get morning light to reset their clock
Shop my travel sleep kit
The travel crib, blackout cover, sound machine, and fan that help my toddler sleep away from home are in my Amazon storefront.
See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.More travel help
See my travel crib guide and sleep reset tips.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my toddler to sleep in a hotel?
Recreate their exact bedtime routine, bring their crib sheet and lovey, use a travel crib they know, and control the room with a blackout cover and sound machine.
How do you handle toddler naps while traveling?
Protect at least one solid nap a day, an overtired toddler sleeps worse at night. Use their normal sleep cues and a familiar setup.
How do you adjust a toddler to a new time zone?
Shift bedtime gradually by 15 to 30 minutes over a few days, get morning sunlight, and keep meals and naps on the new schedule.
Janet
Orlando mom of two and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real gear, trips, and mom-life finds I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.
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Read the gear guide →Sources: personal experience plus general toddler-sleep guidance. Every child is different; ask your pediatrician about specifics.