Vacationing takes on a whole new (and less relaxing) meaning when kids are involved--and even more so when babies are involved! Several aspects factor into the logistics of why it becomes trickier, but I think first and foremost on most of our minds is “where will my baby sleep?”
I’m baffled by all of the variations of pack-n-plays and cribs I’ve been loaned at different hotels. Some are pretty standard, but some are downright ridiculous and nowhere near current AAP standards! So when possible, I like to take away the mystery of what the kind concierge is going to bring to my hotel door, and just simply bring my own from home.
So what are the best sleep options for traveling with babies? Here are a few favorites:
The Nuna Sena Aire
This is the one that would be my personal choice for travel. And I’ll tell you the number one reason why: it can fold up with the infant insert still attached! This is a pretty advanced luxury if you ask me. It’s one thing to have to haul around a pack-n-play, but to add carrying the pieces for the infant insert tends to be over the top for me. The Sena Aire is the lighter version, but it’s still not as light as some standard portable cribs will be.
The 4Moms Breeze
4moms is the bomb. And it’s no surprise that their Breeze version of the pack-n-play is just as amazing as we would have imagined it. Where this is really set apart from others is its fold and unfold abilities. A true one-handed disassemble and a simple push of the middle to set up! Two mattresses are included in this, one for the playard and one for the infant insert. And no, this does not mean two babes can sleep in it at once! It is a little on the larger size so it is not ideal for small guest-rooms or some hotel rooms, but if space isn’t an issue (they have a room to themselves at Grandma’s) then it’s a pretty sweet option.
And the DockATot
We all know the DockATot by now, right? The DockATot gives babies a safe space for some independence, but they are nice and cozy to somewhat mimic being held while they sleep. These are ideal for co-sleeping, so perfect to just put on the guest bed or hotel bed with no worries of taking up extra space. One thing about the DockATot that I’m not sure everyone yet understands is that the Grand is suited to sleep a baby up until age 3! That’s a long lifespan! So even your toddler will have a familiar place to sleep when traveling with the DockATot! And if you're still not sold, here's an additional 10 Ways to use a DockATot Grand.
