Becoming a new parent is one of the best gifts in life. Once you've nailed the first few months and everyone's working out what's what - it's not long before it feels like a great idea to have your first family holiday! With babies flying free whilst they're under two, a lot of families choose to go farther afield and book a long-haul flight!
If you've done this and you're now feeling a little scared of how you're going to get your baby to sleep on the plane and stick to that sleep routine that you've busted your gut to create - you're not alone! Flying with a baby can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to sleep. Between bright cabin lights, noise, and unfamiliar surroundings, it’s no surprise many babies struggle to settle.
Many parents do a mad last minute google search or jump on to AI and Chat GPT to get some advice.
The good news? At CoziGo headquarters, we have over a decade in the business, we have become industry leading experts in this field, so we're here to make it easier for you to find the answers. With the right approach, it’s absolutely possible to help your baby sleep on a plane—even on long-haul flights.
This guide breaks down exactly how to do it.
Who Knew Flying With A Baby Could Look this Good?
Before solving the problem, it’s important to understand it.
Babies rely heavily on:
Planes disrupt all three.
Common challenges include:
Babies sleep best when their environment feels consistent.
Try to replicate:
Light is one of the biggest sleep disruptors. We found our babies were absolute party animals on the planes and the bright lights DID NOT help!
Even if your baby is tired, a bright cabin can prevent melatonin production and keep them alert. Creating a dark, enclosed space can dramatically improve sleep quality.
It's absolutely impossible to follow your strict home routine—but if you've established strong sleep cues - keeping these the same at important times can make all the difference:
Try to align sleep with:
For long-haul flights, prioritise at least one solid sleep block.
Avoid:
Instead:
Having the right tools can make a huge difference.
The absolute packing essentials should include:
A portable sleep environment is often the biggest game changer for parents.
One of the most effective strategies is creating a consistent sleep space—even on a plane.
This means:
When babies recognise a “sleep environment,” they’re far more likely to settle quickly and stay asleep longer.
British Airways Bassinet for Older Babies with CoziGo Attached creating a Dark Environment. Click here for Family Seating info
Small changes here can have a big impact.
Getting your baby to sleep on a plane isn’t about luck—it’s about preparation.
By focusing on environment, routine, and timing, you can dramatically improve your baby’s ability to sleep while travelling.
And when sleep improves, the entire travel experience becomes easier—for everyone.
Focus on recreating a familiar sleep environment with darkness, routine cues, and reduced stimulation.
Some do naturally, but most need support due to light, noise, and disruption to routine.
Yes—darkness helps trigger melatonin and signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
Bring your baby's favorite, familiar toys/blankets/comforters, create a consistent sleep space, follow a simple routine, and minimise light and distractions.
