How to Help Your Baby/ Toddler Sleep on a Plane
There are lots of things you can do to entertain your baby on a flight, but let's be honest - if your baby falls asleep, that's the dream!
After flying to 25 countries with 1 or 2 kids, these are the things that worked best for us and helped maximise our chances of getting some sleep on board.
1. Put their pyjamas on
One of the easiest things you can do is make your baby feel like it's time for sleep.
If you're flying around nap time or overnight, changing them into their pyjamas or a comfortable sleepsuit can become part of their usual sleep routine and help signal that it's time to wind down.
And don't worry if you don't have pyjamas with you - comfortable, soft layers work just as well.
2. Feed before sleep
If feeding is already part of your baby's normal sleep routine, you can use this to your advantage on the plane.
For us, feeding before sleep worked really well because our baby was already used to having milk as part of their bedtime routine.
Whether that's breastfeeding or a bottle, do whatever you normally do with your baby. You don't need to introduce a new sleep routine just because you're flying.
Breastfeeding on the plane is allowed on all airlines but if you want a bit more privacy you can use a breastfeeding cover. Not only it covers your baby feeding but it can help them fall asleep faster as they won't be able to see what's going on around them and won't have the brights lights in their eyes.
3. Let them burn off some energy before the flight
If your baby/ toddler is mobile, giving them plenty of opportunities to move and play before boarding can help them feel ready for a rest once you're on the plane.
We let our little one explore the airport, walk around and play as much as possible before settling down for the flight.
You don't need to exhaust them - the idea is simply to give them some time to be active before they're expected to sit still.
If they have a chance to move around during the flight too, take advantage of it when it's safe and permitted. Sometimes a little walk up and down the aisle is all they need before they're ready for another sleep.
A few extra things that can help
Fly during nap time. If you have the option to choose your flight time, this is probably one of the biggest things you can do to increase your chances of your baby sleeping on the plane.
Make their sleep environment as familiar as possible.
You can't recreate your baby's bedroom at 35,000 feet, but bringing one or two familiar sleep cues can help. Their usual comforter, dummy/pacifier, sleeping bag or even a familiar white noise machine can make the unfamiliar environment feel a little more familiar.
Final thoughts
Getting a baby to sleep on a plane isn't always going to go according to plan and that's okay! The more relaxed you can be, the easier it is to go with whatever happens.
After all, one flight is only a few hours, and you're on your way to somewhere exciting. ✈️❤️