6 Tips for Infant Safe Sleep While Traveling

Learn essential tips for infant safe sleep on your next trip, including planning ahead, following the ‘ABCs’ and creating a safe environment for baby.

It should have been a fun family trip. A mom who was used to her baby sleeping on a firm mattress at home found herself in a different sleep environment while visiting relatives. That night, the baby rolled over onto the softer surface and, tragically, suffocated.

This heartbreaking story is one that Dave Roth, DrPH BSN RN, Public Health Nursing Supervisor with Oakland County Health Division, encountered while reviewing cases related to infant sleep-related deaths.“It’s so important to have a safe sleep environment available,” Roth says.

It’s also a stark reminder. Parents may feel comfortable with their sleep routines at home, but travel can present unforeseen dangers.

“Parents often think, ‘It’ll be fine, it won’t happen to me,’” Roth notes. “It’s essential to plan ahead.”

October’s Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month is a prime time to visit this critical topic — no matter where you are, and especially when traveling during the upcoming holidays.

1. Always follow the ABCs of infant safe sleep

To minimize the risk of sudden infant death or suffocation, always remember the ABC guidelines, Roth says:

  • Alone – Your baby should sleep alone in their own space, with no blankets, toys or pillows
  • Back – Always place your baby on their back to sleep
  • Crib – Use a crib, bassinet or portable crib with a firm, flat surface

2. Avoid improvised sleep spaces

Parents might be tempted to “double up” and use a car seat or bouncer as baby’s away-from-home sleep environment. But there are serious risks, says Roth.

“The way babies sleep in those items allows their head to fall forward and block off their airway,” he explains. “There’s a danger they could suffocate.”

It’s vital to place babies in a proper sleep environment once you arrive at your destination.

The safest option is always a firm, flat surface like a portable crib or bassinet — even if you’re only away for one night.

If you’re staying in a hotel, call ahead to see if they offer cribs. Ask to ensure the crib meets current safety standards.

Oakland County Health Division. How to Keep Baby Safe While Traveling.

3. Plan ahead for safe sleep

Planning is key to preventing dangerous situations — especially during the busy holiday season. Ask questions in the weeks before your trip.

“If you’re going to a relative’s house, ask them if they have a safe crib available,” Roth says. “They might have something stored away from older kids.” If not, invest in a portable pack-and-play or crib.

Roth also stresses the need for careful decision-making when alcohol or substances might be involved. “If you’re going to plan on drinking, or if anything will alter your perception, remember to put the baby in a safe sleep environment,” Roth says.

When under the influence, parents may fall into deeper sleep and be less aware of their surroundings, increasing the risk of rolling over on the baby.

4. Managing crying while traveling

Traveling can be particularly stressful if your infant is going through PURPLE Crying, a phase when babies cry more than usual and are often inconsolable.

Roth reassures parents that this is a normal part of development, not a sign of poor parenting. 

“When that happens and you can’t tolerate it anymore, hand the baby off to someone else,” he says. “Or it’s OK to put the baby in a safe sleep environment and leave the room to calm yourself.”

It helps to create a support system while you’re traveling. Give your relatives advance notice so they are aware. At a hotel, give management a heads up, to help alleviate some stress. “If a complaint does come in, they can explain the situation.”

5. Rolling over: when to worry and when not to

As babies grow, they naturally begin rolling over during sleep, which can make parents anxious — especially when they’re out of their normal routines while traveling.

“If your baby is able to roll over onto their stomach and then back onto their back, They have enough strength to protect their airways,” Roth says.

That’s usually around 6 months, but can vary by child. Either way, he adds, “We always recommend you put the baby to sleep on their back.”

6. Stay mindful of holiday hazards

The holidays bring additional risks, from changes in routine to the distractions of gatherings. In particular, Roth advises parents to avoid cute holiday hats or outfits with loose materials.

“People like to put babies in Santa hats, but babies should not wear hats indoors for sleep,” says Roth, explaining that hats can cause overheating or become a suffocation hazard if they fall off.

Again, he emphasizes: Always plan ahead. Whether you’re staying with family, at a hotel, or even at home, creating a safe sleep environment and sticking to the ABCs — alone, on their back, in a crib — will ensure your baby’s safety, no matter the season.

Content sponsored by the Oakland County Health Division. Learn more about infant safe sleep on the Oakland County Health Division website.

Kim Kovelle
Kim Kovelle
As a Metro Parent content manager, Kim Kovelle brings over 20 years of writing and editing experience. She has strong roots in community journalism and a knack for making complicated topics make more sense.

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