Not sure what to have in your packing list for your next vacation? Consider adding travel blackout curtains and portable blackout shades to the list. These products are essential companions for those who want to have a comfortable sleep on your vacation. This is also great for your little ones because they can have quality naps during the day.
Whether you're a jetsetter or a weekend explorer, the shades and curtains offer a simple yet invaluable solution for better rest away from the comfort of your home. They often fit in standard windows, strollers, playpens, and many more.
Click here to check out baby travel essentials to bring with you.
What to Look for in Travel Blackout Curtains
Here are some of the things to consider when choosing travel blackout blinds or curtains for your family:
Size
In case you are still uncertain about the sizing and type of travel blackout curtains, it is important to know the appropriate size to sufficiently cover your windows. When you get the right sizes, you can maximize the light-blocking benefits of your curtains.
Velcro vs. Suction Cups
There are different ways to set up your blackout curtains. Some brands use Velcro strips to attach the curtains in the window frames of their accommodation while others use suction cups.
The advantage of Velcro is its versatility. It can be used on different window types. It reduces light bleeds in the window and creates a dark room perfect for sleep. On the other hand, the suction cups are more handy and easier to install and remove once you are done using your blackout curtains.
Lightweight
One of the common characteristics of having travel gear is to purchase items that are portable and lightweight. It is also advisable to get portable blackout blinds that are made from lightweight materials so they take up minimal space during your travels.
Types of Temporary Blackout Shades
There are different types and designs when it comes to portable blackout shades. Let's have a closer look below.Removable Blackout Blinds
Portable blackout blinds are preferable to use in your accommodation or hotel rooms. You can easily attach it to your windows which instantly blocks the light and gives you darkness for better sleep. When your baby's room is dark, they are likely to sleep longer.
Travel Crib or Bassinet Blackout Shade
These products are often used over cribs or bassinets when its time for your babies to sleep. They create a dark and comfortable sleeping environment for your little ones. This comes in handy during day time. It is also beneficial at night especially when you are sharing the same room as your baby.Stroller Covers
Stroller covers are made of breathable and blockout materials. The purpose of the cover is to protect your baby from the sun. It also works particularly well when your baby is asleep while you are wandering outside.
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Best Portable Blackout Curtains
Tommee Tippee Gro Anywhere You
Features: 51 x 39"/129.54 x 99.1 cm and weighs 0.7 lbs/0.32 kg
Pros: It comes with versatile sizing, easy installation, and compact storage that allows you to carry it anywhere you go with your family. You can have blackout windows in your hotel room using this product. It is also machine-washable.
Cons: Some parents have reported due to regular usage, suction cups may lose their suction on certain areas and surfaces. This can be an issue because the curtains will fall off after some time and can affect your baby's sleep.
SUN AWAY Portable Blackout Curtains
Features: 66 X 51"/167.6 x 129.54 cm and weighs 1.85 lbs/0.84 kg
Pros: This curtain provides a velcro attachment and multiple panels for a custom fit that allows you to use it in standard windows in your accommodation to keep sunlight out. It also comes with a carrying bag.
Cons: These sleepout curtains may not adhere well to surfaces that don't support Velcro. You may experience issues in setting it up. It is also heavier compared to other options listed in this article.
Nicetown Portable Travel Blackout Curtains
Features: 63 x 42"/157.5 x 105 cm and weighs 2.6 lbs/1.18 kg
Pros: These curtains block out light as well as keeps the heat out.
Cons: Some users report that the curtain does not provide full blockout, allowing light to come through, especially the lighter colored ones.
Amazon Basics Portable Travel Blackout Curtain
Features: 78 x 50"/198.12 x 127 cm with a weight of 1.4 lbs/0.64 kg
Pros: Based on reviews, the Amazon Basics Portable Travel Blackout Curtains are easy to hang with the help of strong suction cups. The suction cups are convenient and do a pretty decent job gripping. It is also recommended to clean the window thoroughly before installing the curtains.
Cons: It may not fit the windows in your accommodation or rooms. This may eventually result in light coming out from the edges on areas that are not covered. The cups will also fall off if the windows are not properly cleaned.
Dream Art Portable Blackout Curtain
Features: 52 x 72"/132 x 183 cm and weighs 1.19 lbs/0.54 kg
Pros: The Dream Art Portable Blackout Curtain is machine washable and comes with a handy travel bag. It is also lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons: They may not fit all window or door sizes, so it's essential to check the dimensions before purchasing. Based on reviews, the installation can also be time-consuming.
RUseeN Portable Blackout Shade
Features: 57 x 118"/142.5 x 295 cm and weighs 1.74 lbs/0.79 kg
Pros: This portable blackout blind can be cut to size to fit smaller windows.
Cons: The tape comes off easily and the shade doesn't look good when hung.
Best Travel Bassinet Blackout Shades
Slumberpod
Features: 50 x 36 x 56"/127 x 91 x 142 cm and weighs 5 lbs/2.27 kgs
Pros: Slumberpod is easy to set up and take down, so you can quickly create a sleep-friendly environment and reciprocate night time for your child when your child is sleeping in their baby's travel crib.
Cons: It is primarily designed for infants and toddlers. As your child grows, they may outgrow the available space inside the pod.
SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Travel Crib Canopy Cover
Features: 11.81 x 7.48 x 3.94"/30 x 19 x 10 cm and weighs around 2.11 lbs/0.96 kg
Pros: The stretchy fabric is usually easy to install and fits snugly around the crib/playpen. Designed to be breathable and allows your child to have a comfortable space to stay.
Cons: Some babies may not like being in an enclosed dark space. This can also make them feel warm and stuffy.
Milliard Darkening Tent for Pack N Play
Features: 13.39 x 8.19 x 3.62"/34 x 20.8 x 9.2 cm and weighs 1.23 lbs/0.56 kg
Pros: This darkening tent is easy to set up and take down once you are done using it. It comes with mesh windows for visibility.
Cons: Some parents mentioned that it could get hot inside and the zippers can wake your baby up when they are sleeping.
BROLEX Mini Crib Canopy Cover for Pack and Play Portable Travel Cribs
Features: 10 x 7.8 x 2.95"/25.4 x 19.8 x 7.5 cm and weighs around 1.12 lbs/0.5 kg
Pros: Based on reviews, you can open the side window to allow more airflow for your baby. It is also easy to install with lots of tiny holes to allow air through.
Cons: Medium to a more luxurious option for your babies. Due to the holes, it allow more light instead of providing enough coverage to have a dark environment for your child.
Best Stroller Covers
Cozigo Stroller Cover
Features: 9.8 x 9.8 x 2.36"/24.99 x 24.99 x 5.99 cm and weighs 1.3 lbs/0.59
Pros: Cozigo can be used on airplanes, making it suitable for traveling with infants and young children during flights. It has UPF 50+ sun protection which can be used for strollers as well.
Cons: The downside of this product is that it may not fit on your stroller. Hence, it is recommended to check the dimensions of your stroller before getting one.
Snoozeshade Original
Features: 7.5 x 7.1 x 1.57"/19 × 18 × 4 cm and weighs 0.44 lbs/0.20 kg
Pros: SnoozeShade Original keeps your baby safely shaded even during broad daylight. It blocks almost 94% of light and distractions and at the same time protects the baby from 99% of the sun’s UVA and UVB (UPF50+).
Cons: It can block the view of your baby.
SnoozeShade Plus Stroller Sun Cover for Babies & Toddlers
Features: 8.66 x 5.91 x 2.36"/22 x 15 x 6 cm and weighs 0.77 lbs/0.35 kg
Pros: It protects your little ones from insects and distractions. It is also used as a cover for your baby in case they want to rest and have a nap. You can check in on your baby without disturbing them using the sneak-a-peek zip.
Cons: During hot weather, your baby may experience poor ventilation with this product.
Travel Blackout Curtains are Handy for Travel
There are various portable blackout curtains and shades to choose from for your next family trip. Have them handy with you to promote better sleep for your kids whilst away from home.
Interested in travel high chairs? Read here for the best portable high chair on the go.
Read here for information on the best travel crib and travel bassinet.
