How I Manage Sydney's Sleep Schedule & Routine on Vacation

I consider myself a pretty chill and laid back mom. But when it comes to Sydney's sleep routine, I do not mess around! Because I prioritize my sleep and freedom, it is imperative that Sydney gets a full night's sleep. A well rested Sydney is a happy Sydney and happy Sydney is a happy mama! There is nothing worse than having a cranky, sleepy baby--especially on vacation when you are just trying to live a little. Sydney's sleep routine at home is very predictable, which allows her and I to know exactly what to expect. She sleeps 12 hours a night and naps for 1-2 hours during the day. Vacations can easily disrupt this and give me the anxiety that comes with unpredictability or fear of having a sleepless night. While it’s impossible to completely replicate her home environment, I’ve found that a few small adjustments allow us to maintain a balance between adventure and a good night’s sleep. Here are the three main strategies I use to keep Sydney’s sleep schedule on track while on vacation.

1. Maintain a Flexible Nap Schedule: Naps On The Go

Vacations are about flexibility, and the same applies to naps. Sydney’s naps are essential for keeping her happy and well-rested, but the timing and location can vary depending on our itinerary. Instead of sticking rigidly to a set location or time, I plan more relaxing activities during the middle of the day to allow for a quick snooze.

If we’re out exploring, I plan for long car rides or leisurely walks during her usual nap times. The key is to plan more mundane or low-energy activities, like a visit to a park or a quiet museum, during nap time rather than booking lunch at a busy restaurant. In Disney, I do not schedule rides during the would-be nap time and stroll around the cute stores until she falls asleep in the stroller.

This flexibility ensures that Sydney gets the rest she needs without interrupting the flow of our day. Plus, I’ve found that it helps keep her in a better mood overall, as she’s still able to recharge even if the nap is a little shorter or in an unconventional spot.

2. Stick to the Sleep Routine (No Matter the Time)

Consistency is everything when it comes to Sydney’s sleep routine. While the actual bedtime may shift due to our vacation schedule, I always stick to the same routine. For example, no matter the time, I still follow the exact steps that signal to Sydney that it’s time to wind down: a warm shower, followed by milk, slipping into her sleep sack, the sound machine on, a soothing song, and then into bed.

This routine is so familiar to her that, even if it’s later than usual or we’re in a new place, she recognizes the cues and knows it’s time to sleep. It also helps her transition into sleep mode, making it easier for her to settle down in a new environment. The sleep sack and sound machine are especially helpful in unfamiliar hotel rooms or vacation rentals, providing some comfort and consistency.

3. Focus More on Wake Windows Than Bedtime

While Sydney usually goes to bed around 6:30 pm at home, that time isn’t as set in stone when we’re on vacation. Instead of stressing about hitting the exact same bedtime every night, I focus on the wake window — the time between when she wakes up from her last nap and when she should go to sleep. At home, her bedtime is typically 4.5-6 hours after waking from her nap. So, on vacation, I aim to put her to bed at the later end of that window if we’re out and about, giving us some flexibility.

This approach allows us to stay out a little longer and adapt our schedule based on the day’s events. Sydney is so attuned to her sleep routine that even if we’re out, she usually gives me signs that it’s time to wind down. Whether it’s getting cranky, rubbing her eyes, or even randomly saying “bye” as if she’s ready to go to bed, I can tell when she’s ready for sleep.

By focusing on her wake window instead of a rigid bedtime, I can ensure that she’s not overtired, and we’re still able to enjoy our time together without feeling stressed about the clock.

Conclusion

Managing Sydney’s sleep routine on vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. By maintaining flexibility in her nap schedule, sticking to the same sleep cues regardless of bedtime, and prioritizing wake windows over a strict bedtime, we’ve found a good balance that keeps her well-rested and happy. Traveling with a toddler doesn’t mean sacrificing sleep — with a few strategic adjustments, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: fun, relaxation, and a rested little one.