Written by Olivia Lewis from Help Baby Sleep NZ

As a sleep consultant and mother of two, I know firsthand the importance of a good night’s sleep; for both mother and babies! When it comes to travelling with young children, it is vital to ensure they have a comfortable and familiar environment so they can get a good sleep on the road (or train/plane/car!) and a comfortable journey.

That’s where Edwards and Co travel prams come in. Whether you’re looking for a single, light-weight travel stroller like the Otto or a single/double stroller like the Olive, these easy-to-use strollers are the perfect solution for parents on the go. With features like adjustable recline, easy folding, and compact storage, these prams make travel with little ones a breeze.

Of course, as we know, a comfortable stroller is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to travelling with young children! I’ve put together a checklist for some of the essential items you’ll want to consider when packing for your next family adventure: 

• Comforter or lovely - a familiar blanket or stuffed animal can help your child feel safe and secure in unfamiliar surroundings.

• Sleep props - if your child relies on a certain routine or sleep prop (like a dummy for babies or special pillow for older children), make sure you bring these along to help them feel more at ease.

• Portable white noise machine - White noise can help drown out unfamiliar sounds and create a calming sleep environment for your child; make sure you choose a portable white noise machine that you can take on the go, these can often be charged up beforehand and don’t need to be plugged in.

• Blackout shades or curtains - If you are travelling to a different time zone or your accommodation has light curtains - or worse - don’t have curtains at all - blackout shades are essential for your little one to fall asleep. Did you know that sleeping in a dark room increases melatonin production, making it easier for you little one to fall asleep, and stay asleep? There are plenty of blackout shades on the market… if all else fails, use a black rubbish bag and tape it to the window. Voila! Darkness! 

• Lightweight and easy-to-fold stroller - A travel stroller like the Otto is a perfect option for parents on the go. Whether you are navigating airport terminals, trains, hotels, or busy city streets, the Edwards and Co strollers are an excellent option for sleeping on the go.

• Nappies and wipes - However many nappies and wipes you think you need, double it! Accidents happen, and often new food and timezones can cause digestive upset in your little ones. In short, packing extra nappies and wipes will avoid stressful situations!

• Snacks and drinks - If you have a toddler, you know how staying full and hydrated can improve their mood, attention span, and ability to sleep! Make sure you pack plenty of nutritious snacks for your child; fruit, vegetables and dip, crackers, healthy muesli bars, vege chips, and more! A spill-proof sippy cup or water bottle is also a great option to keep your little one hydrated on the go, and avoids accidents! If your little one is on formula, make sure you think ahead and pack enough for the trip.

• First aid kit - As a nurse and mama myself, I know that unfortunately children get sick, and accidents happen. Making a mini first-aid kit to take on the go is essential. What should you put in it? Sterile dressings, antibacterial ointment, liquid paracetamol, tweezers, thermometer, small scissors, and some bandage gauze. Pop it in a ziploc bag and you're ready to go. Make sure you check with your airline if the liquid paracetamol meets the requirements of their liquid limit.

• Entertainment - Last but not least, entertainment! There’s nothing worse than a toddler who is bored, am I right? Packing a range of items to entertain your child is a great idea; pencils and paper, toys, their favourite tv show on the iPad, etc.

With the right gear and a little bit of planning, travelling with young children can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. With a travel stroller like the Edwards and Co Otto, you can rest easy knowing that your child will have a comfortable and familiar sleeping environment no matter where your adventures take you!