Family vacations can bring on a range of stressful situations. However, staying in a hotel with your baby or toddler doesn’t have to be one of them. The guide below offers tips for making your overnighter run smoothly.

Child-Friendly Hotel Room Hacks

1. Block Out Noise

When you’re used to a quiet house, a hotel with other guests right next door can be a little jarring and potentially mess up your toddler’s sleep schedule. If you’re hearing noise from the hallway, roll up a bath towel and stuff it against the bottom of the door frame for added noise cushioning. You can also download a white noise app onto your smartphone to counteract any outside sounds.

2. Designate Child Spaces

Young children often need a dark, quiet place to sleep comfortably. Try putting a baby’s crib in the bathroom for a silent, private space. Additionally, set up a makeshift diaper changing area where you can keep all your supplies. Fold a bath towel over any spacious open surface and you’ve got a suitable station.

3. Keep It Dark

Bring a binder clip or skirt hanger to keep any light from shining through the curtains. Since little ones often have early bedtimes when it may still be light out or need full darkness to sleep in past the early morning hours, this little trick can keep any unwanted light out of the hotel room. You can also make sure any electronic phones or tablets are on a lower brightness setting so you can still use your devices while the kids are snoozing.

4. Call Ahead

Always call ahead to ask about the hotel’s amenities and request a portable crib, high chair, or other items you might need for your stay. Hotels often have these available but in limited quantities. 

 

Planning a family vacation in New Mexico? Check out Stevens Inn for a family-friendly and affordable stay. Located in Carlsbad, NM, their experienced, dedicated staff will help to make your visit as comfortable as possible. With spacious rooms and amenities like complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor pools, you’ll be more than satisfied with their pristine lodging. To make a hotel reservation today, call their front desk at (575) 887-2851 or check out their website to take a closer look at their area guide and special offers.