As much as we may put it off, eventually we may need to take a trip with our little ones! It should be an exciting time, so try not to stress. Easier said than done, right?

Our frequent partner and sleep experts Nurture2Sleep have some top tips about travelling successfully (it’s all in the planning!):

“Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time at the airport before you fly. Remember the calmer you are, the more it flows down to your children – so support yourself and them by allowing plenty of time.

Board Last: There is no reason to add extra time for little ones to be stuck in seats. Avoid the initial chaos of boarding and let everyone else get seated.

Be flexible: When it comes to the flight, anything goes. Don’t worry about sticking to your regular sleep schedule, go with the flow and be flexible. Lowering our expectations can really help everyone.

Bring Sleep props: This is critical, as it helps your child fall asleep. If your baby is using a bassinet, bring a sheet that has been on their cot at home – smells are powerful, and it will feel safe and soothing for them. Bring sleeping bags, pacifier, lovey (comfort blanket) etc

Have a mini bed routine: Just like home we can create a mini version for the plane. Could include a wipe down with a warm washcloth (air bath), PJ’s and a book / lullaby

Get moving: For toddlers, it is vital to get them moving. Movement is critical to create sleep pressure to feel tired. Take some laps up and down the plane with them. Do some fun movement games in your chair (mini air boxing, dancing in your chair, mindful stretching)

Toys and games: Poppet, Water Wows, Playdoh, books, puzzles, stickers, ipads, toys. Have some of these wrapped as gifts for them to open throughout the flight

Change of clothes: For everyone! Including you… No one wants to be stuck on a flight covered in vomit (or worse!), so have some spare outfits ready to go.

Snacks & Milk: Snacks, snacks AND more snacks don't forget hydration.”

If you have been swaddling in the lead up to your travels, make sure to pack one with you! If you can swaddle safely on the plane, this is great! It maintains that sleep cue that your baby is used to, and helps to add to that feeling of familiarity that babies crave.

On the other side once you’ve landed, having that swaddle is also a huge plus! Your baby may take a while to adjust to a new sleep space, and having something they know and love is such a comfort. Just be careful to match the TOG Rating to their new environment temperature.

Nurture2Sleep have some fantastic tips for sleep safety - be sure to follow on Instagram for daily updates.