SlumberPod Blackout Tent: My Honest Review & Why It’s a Must for Travel
If you’ve ever tried to get a baby to sleep in a hotel room while tiptoeing around in the dark, this one’s for you.
I can confidently say that SlumberPod has been one of the best travel purchases we’ve made. It’s not a gimmick, and it’s not one of those baby products you use once and forget about—it’s become an essential part of our travel routine.
But let’s be real. When I first saw it, I had questions. Is it worth the money? Will my baby actually sleep better in it? Is it going to be a pain to set up?
Now that we’ve used it on multiple trips, I have answers. Here’s everything you need to know, including what I love, what I don’t, and how to decide if it’s right for your family.
Coupon Code
If you’re ready to try it, use my discount code RUSAFAMEER to save on your purchase!
What Is SlumberPod Blackout Tent & What Cribs Does It Fit Over?
SlumberPod is a portable blackout sleep tent that fits over a standard playard, Pack ‘n Play, mini crib, or toddler air mattress.
That means it works with:
✔Graco Pack ‘n Play (all models)
✔ BabyBjörn Travel Crib
✔ Guava Lotus Travel Crib
✔ 4moms Breeze Go Playard
✔ Most hotel travel cribs
✔ Inflatable toddler mattresses
What it doesn’t fit over:
✘ Full-size cribs
✘ Standard-size twin beds or mattresses
✘ Anything wider than a Pack ‘n Play
So if you’re using a travel crib or playard, you’re good to go. If your baby sleeps in a full-size crib at home and you want to replicate that setup while traveling, you might need to rethink your travel sleep gear before using the SlumberPod.
Why We Love It for Travel
Now that we’ve used it on several trips, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. Here’s why.
1. It Blocks Out ALL Light
I’ve tried everything—hanging blankets over windows, using makeshift curtain clips, even turning the bathroom into a “baby room.” Nothing works as well as this. SlumberPod creates pitch-black darkness, no matter how bright the hotel room is.
2. It Gives Baby a Private Sleep Space
When we travel, we’re almost always sharing a room with Aydin. Before SlumberPod, if he saw us after waking up, he’d start fussing right away. Now? He wakes up, looks around, and just… goes back to sleep. It’s wild.
3. It’s Compact & Travel-Friendly
I was honestly shocked at how small it packs down. It folds into a small carrying bag (about the size of a laptop case), and I can easily fit it in a suitcase along with everything else.
4. The Fan Feature = A Must-Have
I was worried about ventilation, but SlumberPod has breathable fabric, ventilation panels, and a pocket for a small fan. If you’re traveling somewhere warm, definitely use the fan—it makes a huge difference.
5. It’s Great for Naps On the Go
If you’ve ever had to cancel travel plans because your baby needs to nap in a dark room, you know the struggle. SlumberPod lets us be out and about during the day, then set up a dark, distraction-free nap spot anywhere.
Is SlumberPod Easy to Set Up?
Yes, once you’ve done it a couple of times. The first time took my husband about 5-7 minutes, but now he can do it in under 3 minutes.
It pops up like a camping tent, and once you get the hang of it, it’s really simple.
Tip
Do a practice run at home before your trip so you’re not trying to figure it out in a hotel room at bedtime.
Pros & Cons of SlumberPod
Pros
✔ Blocks out all light for better sleep
✔ Gives baby their own private sleep space
✔ Fits most travel cribs and toddler air mattresses
✔ Folds down small and is easy to pack
✔ Ventilation panels and a fan pocket keep it cool
✔ Makes naps on the go so much easier
Cons
✘ Pricey (but worth it)
✘ Setup takes a few tries to get right
✘ Not ideal for very hot climates without AC
✘ Doesn’t fit full-size cribs
If you’re debating whether the price is worth it, think about how valuable sleep is on a trip. For us, having an overtired, fussy baby while traveling is way worse than the cost of the SlumberPod.
Packing & Setup Tips
Pro Tips
– Bring a fan! The built-in pocket keeps air circulating inside the pod.
– Practice setting it up before your trip.
– Let baby try it at home first to get adjusted.
Final Thoughts: Is SlumberPod Worth It?
For us, 100% yes. If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler and struggling with sleep, this is one of the best investments you can make.
If you’re ready to try it, use my discount code RUSAFAMEER to save on your purchase!
Have you tried SlumberPod? I’d love to hear how it worked for you. Drop a comment below!
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Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love and use, and SlumberPod has been a game-changer for our travels! Thank you for supporting my blog.
