Sleeping

Travel cots These are extremely useful if you are unsure of your baby’s sleeping arrangements at your destination. It also means that your baby will have a familiar place to sleep and rest. There are two types of travel cot: those which fold down into a cube shape and fit into a sturdy travel bag (some of these double up as playpens); and those which fold into a less compact square shape, are very quick to put up, but may not come with a travel bag.

If you're taking your car on holiday then bringing a travel cot can be a great idea but if you're flying you'll probably have to rely on one provided at your destination. Make sure to check that they will have something suitable for your child's age and when you arrive ensure that it is safe and not damaged in any way.

Travel adaptor If you’re taking your baby monitor with you, don’t forget a travel adaptor to plug it in, or plenty of spare batteries, if you're travelling outside the UK.

Battery-operated fan Keep your baby cool with a little battery-operated fan which clamps onto a pushchair or cot frame.

Mosquito net If you are travelling somewhere with lots of mosquitoes, it's wise to invest in a mosquito net to protect your baby from pesky biters. These are relatively cheap and can be bought in most babycare shops but do make sure the one you choose will fit over standard travel cots.

Sleeping bags Rather than lug around sheets, blankets and other accessories, a sleeping bag suitable for the temperature of your destination can be both a time-saver and a space saver. They fold up small in a suitcase and are normally suitable from six months and above in both summer and winter togs. Plus you have the added advantage of not worrying about the safety of sheets while you're away.

Sleeping arrangements Some parents want their child in their room while others will want separate bedrooms. This is a totally individual decision but whatever option you go for, make sure that there's enough room. For example, if you want your baby in with you, will your bedroom fit a travel cot in it? If you have twins will their room (or yours) fit two travel cots? Sometimes it's easy to forget sleeping logistics so it's worth checking well in advance.

Visit the babyworld shop where you'll find many of these products at great prices.