How to Protect Your Baby’s Sleep Routine on Summer Holidays (Without Losing Yours)
Going on holiday with a baby sounds relaxing in theory, until sleep goes out the window. Between time zone changes, new environments, hotter temperatures, later nights, and disrupted naps, it’s no surprise many babies (and parents!) struggle with sleep on summer holidays.
But with a few simple strategies, you can maintain your baby’s sleep routine while still enjoying your break…even if you're away from home, juggling work emails, or spending your first summer off on parental leave.
Here’s how to support healthy baby sleep during summer holidays… and protect your own rest in the process.
1. Be Flexible Without Losing All Structure
Holidays are temporary. A few late nights or skipped naps won’t undo your baby’s long-term sleep foundations. If you’ve worked hard to establish a routine, know that a short disruption is okay and often worth it for the memories.
Stay calm if sleep looks different for a few days. Babies are incredibly adaptable.
2. Use Familiar Sleep Associations
Bring your baby’s key sleep tools from home. Things like a sleeping bag, white noise machine, blackout blinds (travel options available), or their favourite comforter/teddy. These cues help your baby recognise it’s sleep time, even in a new environment.
Consistency in these small items can make a big difference when bedtime happens in an unfamiliar room.
3. Plan for Late Nights with Smart Napping
If your evenings are likely to run long, build in a short late-afternoon nap to prevent overtiredness. A well-timed catnap (even 15–30 minutes) helps your baby manage the excitement of staying up later.
This works especially well for toddlers still on one nap or babies who resist sleep in busy new places.
4. Stick to the Bedtime Routine (Even On the Go)
If you’re heading out for the evening, do the bedtime routine as normal before leaving… bath, PJs, milk, cuddles. Then transfer your baby to a pram or carrier, giving them the comfort and wind-down cues they’re used to.
This keeps some familiarity and increases the chances of your baby falling asleep while you're out.
5. Reset Gently When You’re Home
After your trip, return to your usual sleep schedule gradually. Reintroduce nap and bedtime windows, keep the environment quiet and consistent, and avoid stimulating activities before bed. Most babies and toddlers will recalibrate within a few days.
The key? Calm confidence and predictable boundaries.
Need Support With Baby Sleep?
Whether you’re heading away for the summer or managing daily routine changes, sleep can feel harder than it should. My 1:1 support is designed for parents on maternity or back in the workplace, so that your baby gets the rest they need, and you do too.
Ready to feel confident in your family’s sleep routine?