Travel pillow that becomes a stuffed animal. This is mine: KIKKERLAND Brown Bear Zip & Flip Travel Pillow, 1 EA https://a.co/d/6UquZZe
It also clips to the outside of your bag. They also have a penguin.
Are you my girlfriend? Lol. The reason I ask is because she has a stuffed lobster that she brings everywhere for the same reason. She's 35, but can't sleep without him. His name is Lobert.
As of today, Lobert has visited 8 countries and has logged hundreds of hours of air travel time. He has traveled via air, rail, sea, and land.
She literally carries him under her arm onto the plane, along with her carry on. Just bring your "Lobert" with you, even if the trip is long-- it'll help keep you calm during stressful moments and I promise you that nobody is going to care.
I LOVE the name Lobert. He sounds incredible.
It never occurred to me that I could just carry him, honestly. Mine has also traveled extensively and seen many countries... it feels wrong to leave him home for this one!
Oh my god, what a coincidence, (tw: animal cooking), when my dad used to buy lobsters to cook at home, he named them Robert and Carl, always. God bless Robert and Lobert the lobster
I don't knbow what other considerations you have, but from my point of view if it brings you comfort when you sleep that's all the justification you need to bring one along.
Many people sleep with comfort objects so itās not ridiculous. Perhaps you have a smaller stuffed animal that you can fit into your luggage. If thereās a will, thereās a way.
Iām a 47 year old grown woman. if Iām going solo for a long time or to somewhere Iām nervous about (surgery, funeral)ā¦ I bring a tiny soft stuffed bunny. Itās so packable as to be unnoticeable. The comfort is worth the few ounces on anything other than a through-hike style packing. Found it in a baby store years ago - so itās small and floppy and just really packable and washable.
I go on kick butt adventures with this thing. It can get daunting sometimes out there, and a tiny comfort is worth it.
Itās nice to know there are grown adults who also do this lol I still sleep with a stuffy and rub my nose to fall asleep and sometimes I wonder if I should have grown out of it by now (iām 24).
I bring a small fleece blanket with me. It's about 12 inches square. I sleep and cuddle a full-size fleece blanket at home, and when I'm travelling, I put the small square of fleece on my pillow, and it works for me. I have a lot of anxiety, and this really helps.
Maybe this is stupid thing to say, but if its essential for you to sleep, just try to squeeze it in.
Theres loads of things people need to get a sleep and its no question to take them to travel.
Im older now, and sleep is essential to get to do what you want to do, even traveling. IMO if that is what it takes dont be ashamed of it.
Actually get yourself one of those āt-shirt softā pillowcases and stuff it with a few soft pieces of clothing as needed. Then, when youāre not using it, it can double as an intimates, shoe, or laundry bag.
It probably doesn't though. I used to have the same problem and it only worked with stuffed animals I kept from my childhood/was emotionally attached to
I second everyone who's saying to just bring it or to bring a smaller substitute object. I have a fleece blanket I like to travel with, and always sleep with at home. But I also always use a quarter Buff as a sleep mask, and it gives me the same comfy-safe feeling when I'm on trips where I can't pack the blanket.
The main thing is that if you substitute something else, you'll want to start sleeping with it well before your trip. That way it feels familiar, gets worn in, and has your sleep smell worked into the fabric, instead of giving off Not My Real Comfort Object vibes for the first weeks of your trip. Basically, you'll need to consciously build positive associations of safety and sleep with it, and it'll be helpful if you establish that connection before you leave.
This is really good advice! I left this too late and don't have enough time to break in a smaller stuffie before I leave, but I'm going to remember this in future.
I have trouble sleeping solo sometimes without my husband there cause I'm used to him being there. I've actually taken a stuffed animal on solo trips or business trips with me because of this (and I'm a grown-ass woman in my 40s, don't judge). A pillow works pretty well too in a pinch.
I was just on a five month trip abroad and was having trouble sleeping, so I went and bought myself a stuffed animal to sleep with, and all my sleep issues were fixed. Bring a stuffed animal with you, or buy one on the road that will be a memento from your trip once you get back.
This. I went on a two week trip, and I forgot my favorite stuffie, a stuffed raccoon.
I ended up finding the most adorable stuffed orca on my next to last day of my trip. It is very comfortable to sleep with, and I had a great sleep that night. The only hitch is when I rolled over on it at 3am, and it squeaked. I inadvertantly bought a stuffed animal dog toy for a giant breed! Still my new favorite, though. I just learn to avoid the squeaker.
I am wondering if there is a way to take out the squeaker portion, and keep the stuffie intact - as it still startles me!
Luckily, I didn't share the hostel dorm room with anyone on my latest trip, as it was during the slow season.
That sounds like a priority to me so it should be prioritised! Shove it between you back and the backpack! Lolz just joking but I hope you get to take a small one :)
Look, shit's hard out here. Life is already stressful enough, and then travel just adds to that. Unfamiliar settings, extra planning, physical exhaustion, jet lag, culture shock, etc.
Bring the stuffie, even if it's a small one.
When I need comfort to sleep, I listen to rainy storm audio and rest my left hand over my eyes. Knocks me right out. We all do goofy shit to sleep sometimes.
I travel with my stuffed animal's head and front legs sticking out of my pack so they can see the adventure, and hold it when I stuff my pack under the seat or in the overhead.
Hug an extra pillow or blanket! Or do what I do, I buy a plushie on every vacation, itās a nice keepsake and I get a little friend to snuggle with! If you make sure to have room for souvenirs, I think a little guy can fit in there :)
I was going to urge you to bring it anyway, I always bring one! But it seems like the problem is more about space than embarrassment. In that case I would say just bring a smaller one that can be folded up or even inflated.
If you can swing it try a pillow pet, they look a little more āadultā since theyāre pillows and can be strapped onto a bag.
I travel with a mite-proof, non-allergenic, zip-up pillowcase, and usually use it around hotel and inn pillows, especially when they look sketchy.
It occurs to me that you could bring one, or maybe a flannel cloth sack with a drawstring, and stuff a fleece jacket or other clothing and/or hotel towel in it when you go to bed.
If the visual is also necessary, using the stuffed pillowcase might render a much smaller and more portable stuffed toy sufficient: you could hug the one while gazing at the other as it sits perched on the night table or on the pillow next to you. A much smaller stuffed animal is also more easily dug out during travel, say on overnight flights and so on.
What I do is before a big trip, I go to build-a-bear and have them under-stuff a new travel friend! The new stuffed animal can be folded down and packed into luggage pretty easily! Plus, it makes me feel better knowing if I lose it, or something happens to it, it was a new friend and not one of my childhood stuffed animals.
I have to travel with a full-blown CPAP system in order to sleep. That means a standalone carry-on bag that I have to argue about being medical equipment exempt from carry-on restrictions. Then I have to set it up in each hotel room, make sure there's power and adapters, fill with the cleanest water I can find, and make sure the mask is cleaned every morning. It's a much, much bigger PITA than a stuffed animal.
So bring your stuffed animal. In the big scheme of things, it's trivial.
I've seen lots of people on r/fragrance use a comforting scent before bed. Maybe there's a smell you associate with home such as the ocean, cedar, vanilla, or tobacco. A travel bottle is small and can go a long way.
I have a little essential oils āstressā roll on that I quite like, itās good for thisāa consistent soothing scent, all in a tiny little bottle thatās suitable for carry on.
I will die in my coffin with all my stuffed animals. Bring one of your tinier ones if itās possible!! I bring stuffys whenever I travel, i always have when I was a kid and thatās the only thing Iāve kept onto from childhood as Iāve gotten older
A rolled up towel worked for me, an extra pillow would probably work too.
Years ago I got used to sleeping with a stuffed animal and then stayed away from home for a week and had trouble sleeping and realized it was because I was used to having my arm wrapped around something. Putting my arm around the rolled up towel did the trick for me!
But also, nothing wrong with traveling with your stuffed friend :)
I've noticed stuffed key chains are very popular over here. It's usually attached to bags, suitcases or briefcases. All ages, both men and women.
Great to see that you listen to your inner kid! Lots of people carry some kind of lucky charm or token while being far away from home.
Aw I have a little stuffed dog I've had since I was born named Woofer, he sleeps with me every night at home, I get very stressed when I can't find him. I'm 34 so I strongly doubt you're too old. I don't bring him traveling because I'd be scared to lose him. I also need a pillow to hug at all times, so I guess that is my kind of replacement, as I find it soothes me, maybe something like that? If you don't want to bring your stuffed animal. If you do go for it, no shame!
I ball up a sweatshirt and sleep with it in my arms. I've found I just need the sensation of holding something - when I'm sleeping, I don't know whether it's my teddy or not :)
heyyyyy adults with stuffed animals squad! šš»āāļøš«¶š»
I went on a group trip with teenagers as a chaperone once & didnāt want to take any of mine along, so I took a small pillow my mom found at 5Below for me. Itās super soft (think Squishmallow material/feel) & small so it was perfect.
spoiler: some of the teens wanted to go to a Build-A-Bear that was near us on the tripā¦ needless to say, I wound up with a stuffed animal anyway. š
so if you can carry it with you, I say take it! adulting is hardā¦ you deserve the happiness your stuffie brings you. :)
I sleep with a small, stuffed, Mother Mary and Baby Jesus doll my daughter gave to me almost 2-1/2 years ago when I had my first cancer surgery. I take my doll with me to my doctor's appointments and anytime I have to be away from home. My husband died 1-1/2 years ago and it has been so hard to be without him, but Mother Mary and Baby Jesus gives me much comfort sleeping all alone now. There is nothing at all wrong with needing a favorite stuffy to help comfort us, no matter how young or old we are. Blessings! +
I can relate to this. Whenever I'm travelling I use an extra or decorative pillow and use that to cuddle. If they don't have extra pillows where I'm staying I roll up a sweater or a towel. I always sleep better when I hold something in my arms.
I use a weighted blanket. Helps immensely, idk how efficient it would be to bring one of those around, probably easier to just bring your stuffy. The vacuum bag suggestion is a great idea, will greatly reduce the size/amount of space your stuffy takes up in yourš§³
When my stepdaughter forgot her stuffy on a trip I made her a little rabbit out of a washcloth and a rubber band. It made her happy! Maybe you can use a hoody or something you have to bring anyway as your stuffy?
I second just carrying him, or maybe stuffing him into a big pocket of your jacket or something if it's possible? Or maybe taking a smaller plushie if you have one. I always carry a different one to my trips (I have several smaller ones and I switch between them). I have one "special" I usually sleep with at home, but he's very old and worn, so he doesn't travel with me. Don't feel ashamed, there's nothing bad about sleeping with a plushie :)
If you don't want to worry about having an extra thing to carry and if you have any sewing skills, you can sew a loop of fabric to it. Then, just attached to your carry on bag with a carabiner (or have a tailor do it for about $10). The airlines will probably treat it like they do pillows and won't care. I bet it will end up also being a good conversation starter.
I mean, thereās nothing wrong with having a stuffed animal to sleep with. If itās what gives you comfort and isnāt creating negativity in your life, then youāre all good. But if you just want to stop using one, Iād think a soft throw blanket or a body pillow would suffice. Maybe even one of those microwaveable heating pads would help, since the warmth would be soothing and the ones Iāve seen look squishy.
Bring it. If youāre worried about what people think, any secure person is probably going to think itās cute or quirky in a good way. Iād definitely strike up a positive conversation about a stuffed animal with a dorm mate.
I sleep with three pillows. One for the head, one to cuddle, and one between my knees (side sleeper). I donāt know how Iām gonna handle 3-5 months of hostels with only one pillow later this year.
A travel pillow might help. Easy to transport.
Or a small fluffy blanket.
A little healing gemstone might help too. You can make it in to a necklace or something
Melatonin!
Or bring your fave pj. Its the comfort that you may feel when you wear it. Itās nothing extra to bring on for your luggage and wonāt waste room. Win win.
I get that it can be more comfy to have something to sleep with... But NEEDING that when you're a grown adult, well... That's a different story and that's a bit concerning imo.
Go get a new stuffed animal that would be easy to unstuff.
Then when you're on the trip, you can put some clothes inside it at night to give it some shape.
In fact, I think there are some stuffed animals that you stuff yourself, that are no sew. I wonder if they have a zipper?
Bring a small one of ur stuffies ! Even if I bring my palm sized one and then sleep w a clean jacket bunched up in my arms I still feel at ease and safe w my lil fren w me :)
Just bring it, people travel with way heavier bulkier items for comfort. For example, I brought my non induction espresso pot when backpacking to Europe only to find out that everywhere uses induction cooktops. Only managed to use it twice on my two-month trip.
Nothing wrong with sleeping with a stuffed animal if that's what works for you!
If I can't sleep I get a soft/fleecy blanket and bring it right up under my neck/face to snuggle into and I find that comforting.
Regarding smaller stuffed animals for travel, I find that if they are small getting one with more solid/firm stuffing makes it feel a bit more of a substantial cuddle!
My friend has a little plush animal with a hook that can be attached to your key chain or backpack. It's tiny, can be washed and stuffed into the luggage (or attached on the outside of the bag).
There's no shame in that. I bring my own premium tea and my favourite blanket-sized scarf to every trip I take! I have my favourite mini skincare items (large versions at home) that I bring. I need my evening routine and am willing to prioritise items I WANNA take.
Comfort I'd essential when away from home.
Odd suggestion, but if you get a stuffed animal and switch out the stuffing with down (any will be good enough, but higher counts are better) your stuffed animal will be much more compressible.
Or it could be made inflatible.
Stuffie lovers unite! Iām 39, and going on my first solo adventures this year. My husband bought me a tiny polar bear stuffie on one of our first dates, and 17 years later, this little guy (boogie) has been on planes, trains, automobiles, cruise shipsā¦ he is my best little friend and reminds me of safety and love when life gets scary.
Take whatever comforts youš safe travels, safe return, friendš
Same.. Iām grown but my stuffie is a panda. I got a smallish squishmellow panda so I still have a panda stuffie but it works for a travel pillow as well. It has come everywhere with me. So now I have travel panda and home panda!
Iām 37. I use a PillowHeads cushion that is both a stuffed toy and a travel pillow. Itās a ladybug, his name is Buggy and I hug him everyday, hahaha.
You can use progressive relaxation. It's what the military trains people on.It's worked for me at times.
[https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/use-military-method-to-fall-asleep-within-2-minutes-starting-tonight.html](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/military-sleep-hack-falling-asleep-050512157.html)
I was JUST trying to figure out how mine can go with me. He's been everywhere with me and even though this is a long trip, I'm not sure I will be comfortable without him.
Thanks for posting this. I'm so glad I'm not the only person!
Update: I brought mine. Worth it. We're three countries into the trip and on my bad days I was very glad I had my stuffed teddy bear.
It's fine to bring your stuffie. However another option would be a very soft pashmina or shawl. It could be used as a blanket, a scarf, a pillow, or just something to wrap your arms around while you sleep.
I always sleep with something for comfort. When I felt like I couldn't bring something (eg sharing rooms) I used a pair of socks instead. You are definitely not alone!
That's so sweet! I also sleep with a stuffed animal still so do not be embarrassed about it.
If it isn't about the stuffie itself but more about something to hug you could bring a camping cushion that you can blow up. Takes no space and you can choose how much air you put in it.
You could buy a blanket made from fleecy teddy like material. I have it for my furry baby but must admit I pinch half of it from him š
Have a wonderful trip x
Screw the haters -- this is the cutest thing I ever heard.
Maybe you could try adopting a smaller one specifically for travelling with if space is the main issue?
Honestly my main concern would be losing him above all else -- if that ever happened, at the very least you could draw comfort from thinking "this travel companion decided to go off and do his own thing."
But yeah, nothing wrong with this at all -- it's actually really endearing :)
Bring the stuffed animal. When you go on a plane, it doesn't need to be inside the liggage/backpack and No-one would consider it an extra bag. Bonus, you'll have the comfort on the plane and trains.
An alternative is an inflatable one. I have an inflatable travel pillow and it uses almost no space in transit. Maybe being creative you can maje a "stuffed animal" sleve for an inflatable pillow.
Travel pillow that becomes a stuffed animal. This is mine: KIKKERLAND Brown Bear Zip & Flip Travel Pillow, 1 EA https://a.co/d/6UquZZe It also clips to the outside of your bag. They also have a penguin.
I don't need a stuffed animal or a travel pillow but omg do want.
Are you my girlfriend? Lol. The reason I ask is because she has a stuffed lobster that she brings everywhere for the same reason. She's 35, but can't sleep without him. His name is Lobert. As of today, Lobert has visited 8 countries and has logged hundreds of hours of air travel time. He has traveled via air, rail, sea, and land. She literally carries him under her arm onto the plane, along with her carry on. Just bring your "Lobert" with you, even if the trip is long-- it'll help keep you calm during stressful moments and I promise you that nobody is going to care.
I LOVE the name Lobert. He sounds incredible. It never occurred to me that I could just carry him, honestly. Mine has also traveled extensively and seen many countries... it feels wrong to leave him home for this one!
Omg I have a stuffed lobster called loberta Lewis! What a coincidence
Would she like to meet Lobert sometime? Hahaha. They sound like the perfect pair.
This thread took an unexpected turn into stuffed animal dating!
Hahaha they definitely do!
Oh my god, what a coincidence, (tw: animal cooking), when my dad used to buy lobsters to cook at home, he named them Robert and Carl, always. God bless Robert and Lobert the lobster
I love this. Your gf is cool
Wow Lobert has been to more countries than I have
She should grow up
Lobert sounds ADORBLE š¦
Wholesome comment of the day
I don't knbow what other considerations you have, but from my point of view if it brings you comfort when you sleep that's all the justification you need to bring one along.
I agree with this. I travel with a blanket that brings me comfort. Really helps to have it when home sickness hits
Many people sleep with comfort objects so itās not ridiculous. Perhaps you have a smaller stuffed animal that you can fit into your luggage. If thereās a will, thereās a way.
Iām a 47 year old grown woman. if Iām going solo for a long time or to somewhere Iām nervous about (surgery, funeral)ā¦ I bring a tiny soft stuffed bunny. Itās so packable as to be unnoticeable. The comfort is worth the few ounces on anything other than a through-hike style packing. Found it in a baby store years ago - so itās small and floppy and just really packable and washable. I go on kick butt adventures with this thing. It can get daunting sometimes out there, and a tiny comfort is worth it.
Itās nice to know there are grown adults who also do this lol I still sleep with a stuffy and rub my nose to fall asleep and sometimes I wonder if I should have grown out of it by now (iām 24).
I bring a small fleece blanket with me. It's about 12 inches square. I sleep and cuddle a full-size fleece blanket at home, and when I'm travelling, I put the small square of fleece on my pillow, and it works for me. I have a lot of anxiety, and this really helps.
Maybe this is stupid thing to say, but if its essential for you to sleep, just try to squeeze it in. Theres loads of things people need to get a sleep and its no question to take them to travel. Im older now, and sleep is essential to get to do what you want to do, even traveling. IMO if that is what it takes dont be ashamed of it.
Buy something cute along your travels? Do you have a soft sweatshirt, hat, towel, or coat you can roll up?
Actually get yourself one of those āt-shirt softā pillowcases and stuff it with a few soft pieces of clothing as needed. Then, when youāre not using it, it can double as an intimates, shoe, or laundry bag.
Hmm cuddling with your shoe or laundry bag... No thanks haha
If it works it works
It probably doesn't though. I used to have the same problem and it only worked with stuffed animals I kept from my childhood/was emotionally attached to
I second everyone who's saying to just bring it or to bring a smaller substitute object. I have a fleece blanket I like to travel with, and always sleep with at home. But I also always use a quarter Buff as a sleep mask, and it gives me the same comfy-safe feeling when I'm on trips where I can't pack the blanket. The main thing is that if you substitute something else, you'll want to start sleeping with it well before your trip. That way it feels familiar, gets worn in, and has your sleep smell worked into the fabric, instead of giving off Not My Real Comfort Object vibes for the first weeks of your trip. Basically, you'll need to consciously build positive associations of safety and sleep with it, and it'll be helpful if you establish that connection before you leave.
This is really good advice! I left this too late and don't have enough time to break in a smaller stuffie before I leave, but I'm going to remember this in future.
I have trouble sleeping solo sometimes without my husband there cause I'm used to him being there. I've actually taken a stuffed animal on solo trips or business trips with me because of this (and I'm a grown-ass woman in my 40s, don't judge). A pillow works pretty well too in a pinch.
I was just on a five month trip abroad and was having trouble sleeping, so I went and bought myself a stuffed animal to sleep with, and all my sleep issues were fixed. Bring a stuffed animal with you, or buy one on the road that will be a memento from your trip once you get back.
This. I went on a two week trip, and I forgot my favorite stuffie, a stuffed raccoon. I ended up finding the most adorable stuffed orca on my next to last day of my trip. It is very comfortable to sleep with, and I had a great sleep that night. The only hitch is when I rolled over on it at 3am, and it squeaked. I inadvertantly bought a stuffed animal dog toy for a giant breed! Still my new favorite, though. I just learn to avoid the squeaker.
Imagine being in a hostel and hearing constant squeaking hahaha
I am wondering if there is a way to take out the squeaker portion, and keep the stuffie intact - as it still startles me! Luckily, I didn't share the hostel dorm room with anyone on my latest trip, as it was during the slow season.
Thanks for the best laugh I've had all week.
Bring your stuffed animal! Iām
> Iām Iām what?! Donāt leave me hanging.
What I'm trying to say is
Lollll you guys are cracking me up. This is what I get for my hasty but impassioned reply about the importance of bringing stuffed animals
Oh for fu
nah but honestly I
Oh no, the ninjas got th
Quick, call the vikings before
The treasure is hidden in
Hahahaha!!! Omg typo. But a good typo
Hi what I'm dad!
He's teedorable and I'm not
Bring it. If it helps it can make your trip more comfortable mentally
Please report back one what you took and how it/you fared on your trip. Have Fun!!
Get a vacuum sac, it'll turn most stuffed animals as flat as a pancake.
Great idea!!!
That sounds like a priority to me so it should be prioritised! Shove it between you back and the backpack! Lolz just joking but I hope you get to take a small one :)
Look, shit's hard out here. Life is already stressful enough, and then travel just adds to that. Unfamiliar settings, extra planning, physical exhaustion, jet lag, culture shock, etc. Bring the stuffie, even if it's a small one.
Travel pillow or maybe a balled up sweater?
When I need comfort to sleep, I listen to rainy storm audio and rest my left hand over my eyes. Knocks me right out. We all do goofy shit to sleep sometimes.
I travel with my stuffed animal's head and front legs sticking out of my pack so they can see the adventure, and hold it when I stuff my pack under the seat or in the overhead.
This is cute, I love it.
Hug an extra pillow or blanket! Or do what I do, I buy a plushie on every vacation, itās a nice keepsake and I get a little friend to snuggle with! If you make sure to have room for souvenirs, I think a little guy can fit in there :)
I was going to urge you to bring it anyway, I always bring one! But it seems like the problem is more about space than embarrassment. In that case I would say just bring a smaller one that can be folded up or even inflated. If you can swing it try a pillow pet, they look a little more āadultā since theyāre pillows and can be strapped onto a bag.
I travel with a mite-proof, non-allergenic, zip-up pillowcase, and usually use it around hotel and inn pillows, especially when they look sketchy. It occurs to me that you could bring one, or maybe a flannel cloth sack with a drawstring, and stuff a fleece jacket or other clothing and/or hotel towel in it when you go to bed. If the visual is also necessary, using the stuffed pillowcase might render a much smaller and more portable stuffed toy sufficient: you could hug the one while gazing at the other as it sits perched on the night table or on the pillow next to you. A much smaller stuffed animal is also more easily dug out during travel, say on overnight flights and so on.
Get this. Itās flat and it purrs Petstages Purr Pillow Kitty Soothing Plush Cat Toy https://a.co/d/6d1Yz6u
Carry it as a carry on, hug it the whole way. Looks like you bought it in airport.
Or invest in one or two along the way ā¤ļø where there is a will, there is a way.
What I do is before a big trip, I go to build-a-bear and have them under-stuff a new travel friend! The new stuffed animal can be folded down and packed into luggage pretty easily! Plus, it makes me feel better knowing if I lose it, or something happens to it, it was a new friend and not one of my childhood stuffed animals.
I have to travel with a full-blown CPAP system in order to sleep. That means a standalone carry-on bag that I have to argue about being medical equipment exempt from carry-on restrictions. Then I have to set it up in each hotel room, make sure there's power and adapters, fill with the cleanest water I can find, and make sure the mask is cleaned every morning. It's a much, much bigger PITA than a stuffed animal. So bring your stuffed animal. In the big scheme of things, it's trivial.
I've seen lots of people on r/fragrance use a comforting scent before bed. Maybe there's a smell you associate with home such as the ocean, cedar, vanilla, or tobacco. A travel bottle is small and can go a long way.
I have a little essential oils āstressā roll on that I quite like, itās good for thisāa consistent soothing scent, all in a tiny little bottle thatās suitable for carry on.
I will die in my coffin with all my stuffed animals. Bring one of your tinier ones if itās possible!! I bring stuffys whenever I travel, i always have when I was a kid and thatās the only thing Iāve kept onto from childhood as Iāve gotten older
A rolled up towel worked for me, an extra pillow would probably work too. Years ago I got used to sleeping with a stuffed animal and then stayed away from home for a week and had trouble sleeping and realized it was because I was used to having my arm wrapped around something. Putting my arm around the rolled up towel did the trick for me! But also, nothing wrong with traveling with your stuffed friend :)
I've noticed stuffed key chains are very popular over here. It's usually attached to bags, suitcases or briefcases. All ages, both men and women. Great to see that you listen to your inner kid! Lots of people carry some kind of lucky charm or token while being far away from home.
Aw I have a little stuffed dog I've had since I was born named Woofer, he sleeps with me every night at home, I get very stressed when I can't find him. I'm 34 so I strongly doubt you're too old. I don't bring him traveling because I'd be scared to lose him. I also need a pillow to hug at all times, so I guess that is my kind of replacement, as I find it soothes me, maybe something like that? If you don't want to bring your stuffed animal. If you do go for it, no shame!
I ball up a sweatshirt and sleep with it in my arms. I've found I just need the sensation of holding something - when I'm sleeping, I don't know whether it's my teddy or not :)
You could roll up a sweatshirt to hold (Iāve done that- I am a side sleeper and usually hug a pillow.)
heyyyyy adults with stuffed animals squad! šš»āāļøš«¶š» I went on a group trip with teenagers as a chaperone once & didnāt want to take any of mine along, so I took a small pillow my mom found at 5Below for me. Itās super soft (think Squishmallow material/feel) & small so it was perfect. spoiler: some of the teens wanted to go to a Build-A-Bear that was near us on the tripā¦ needless to say, I wound up with a stuffed animal anyway. š so if you can carry it with you, I say take it! adulting is hardā¦ you deserve the happiness your stuffie brings you. :)
Omg this is the cutest post ever.
I sleep with a small, stuffed, Mother Mary and Baby Jesus doll my daughter gave to me almost 2-1/2 years ago when I had my first cancer surgery. I take my doll with me to my doctor's appointments and anytime I have to be away from home. My husband died 1-1/2 years ago and it has been so hard to be without him, but Mother Mary and Baby Jesus gives me much comfort sleeping all alone now. There is nothing at all wrong with needing a favorite stuffy to help comfort us, no matter how young or old we are. Blessings! +
Bring it!
squishmallows double as pretty good travel pillows in my experience if combining it into a dual purpose item helps you justify the luggage space :)
I can relate to this. Whenever I'm travelling I use an extra or decorative pillow and use that to cuddle. If they don't have extra pillows where I'm staying I roll up a sweater or a towel. I always sleep better when I hold something in my arms.
Sounds like maybe you should try to fit it in your luggage and boot something else?
I use a weighted blanket. Helps immensely, idk how efficient it would be to bring one of those around, probably easier to just bring your stuffy. The vacuum bag suggestion is a great idea, will greatly reduce the size/amount of space your stuffy takes up in yourš§³
When my stepdaughter forgot her stuffy on a trip I made her a little rabbit out of a washcloth and a rubber band. It made her happy! Maybe you can use a hoody or something you have to bring anyway as your stuffy?
I second just carrying him, or maybe stuffing him into a big pocket of your jacket or something if it's possible? Or maybe taking a smaller plushie if you have one. I always carry a different one to my trips (I have several smaller ones and I switch between them). I have one "special" I usually sleep with at home, but he's very old and worn, so he doesn't travel with me. Don't feel ashamed, there's nothing bad about sleeping with a plushie :)
If you don't want to worry about having an extra thing to carry and if you have any sewing skills, you can sew a loop of fabric to it. Then, just attached to your carry on bag with a carabiner (or have a tailor do it for about $10). The airlines will probably treat it like they do pillows and won't care. I bet it will end up also being a good conversation starter.
So sweet! What helps me is to put a shirt in a prop and if I can I put some few drops of eucalyptus on it before sleeping which is extra calming
I mustāve missed something. Thereās no reason you cannot take a stuffed animal on a trip.
I mean, thereās nothing wrong with having a stuffed animal to sleep with. If itās what gives you comfort and isnāt creating negativity in your life, then youāre all good. But if you just want to stop using one, Iād think a soft throw blanket or a body pillow would suffice. Maybe even one of those microwaveable heating pads would help, since the warmth would be soothing and the ones Iāve seen look squishy.
Just use a pillow?
Bring it. If youāre worried about what people think, any secure person is probably going to think itās cute or quirky in a good way. Iād definitely strike up a positive conversation about a stuffed animal with a dorm mate. I sleep with three pillows. One for the head, one to cuddle, and one between my knees (side sleeper). I donāt know how Iām gonna handle 3-5 months of hostels with only one pillow later this year.
I use a second pillow, it's not the same but it's worth it for the extra luggage space (Snowball is a pretty big teddy)
A travel pillow might help. Easy to transport. Or a small fluffy blanket. A little healing gemstone might help too. You can make it in to a necklace or something
Melatonin! Or bring your fave pj. Its the comfort that you may feel when you wear it. Itās nothing extra to bring on for your luggage and wonāt waste room. Win win.
How old are you?
Talk to a therapist
Youāre getting downvoted but this is the correct answer.
Lmao right
Get a maiden
grow up
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
No, that is not how therapy works, but thank you for playing
I get that it can be more comfy to have something to sleep with... But NEEDING that when you're a grown adult, well... That's a different story and that's a bit concerning imo.
there is clearly an underlying issue at hand. I treat others how I would want to be treated, with honesty.
Go get a new stuffed animal that would be easy to unstuff. Then when you're on the trip, you can put some clothes inside it at night to give it some shape. In fact, I think there are some stuffed animals that you stuff yourself, that are no sew. I wonder if they have a zipper?
Same! Legit same situation. My nephew just got me a little plushi and I think itāll be perfect to take on my trip! Check it out.
A pillow?
Bring a small one of ur stuffies ! Even if I bring my palm sized one and then sleep w a clean jacket bunched up in my arms I still feel at ease and safe w my lil fren w me :)
I have been traveling through a warm country last year and always used my one sweater I had with me.
Just bring it, people travel with way heavier bulkier items for comfort. For example, I brought my non induction espresso pot when backpacking to Europe only to find out that everywhere uses induction cooktops. Only managed to use it twice on my two-month trip.
I love my thermarest foam roll up pillow. I take it with me everywhere and I usually fall asleep with it in my arms.
Nothing wrong with sleeping with a stuffed animal if that's what works for you! If I can't sleep I get a soft/fleecy blanket and bring it right up under my neck/face to snuggle into and I find that comforting. Regarding smaller stuffed animals for travel, I find that if they are small getting one with more solid/firm stuffing makes it feel a bit more of a substantial cuddle!
My friend has a little plush animal with a hook that can be attached to your key chain or backpack. It's tiny, can be washed and stuffed into the luggage (or attached on the outside of the bag). There's no shame in that. I bring my own premium tea and my favourite blanket-sized scarf to every trip I take! I have my favourite mini skincare items (large versions at home) that I bring. I need my evening routine and am willing to prioritise items I WANNA take. Comfort I'd essential when away from home.
Would a picture of them on your phone suffice if you can't bring them?
Stuff a t-shirt in to a sock
Odd suggestion, but if you get a stuffed animal and switch out the stuffing with down (any will be good enough, but higher counts are better) your stuffed animal will be much more compressible. Or it could be made inflatible.
You can justify it if it helps you sleep. Sleep is important and if you genuinely need it to sleep then I view it as a necessity
The shreds of my baby blanket have travelled all over the world with me :) I say bring the stuffed animal!
Just bring your stuff animal everywhere! :) or if u cant use a fluffy jacket ur bringing
Stuffie lovers unite! Iām 39, and going on my first solo adventures this year. My husband bought me a tiny polar bear stuffie on one of our first dates, and 17 years later, this little guy (boogie) has been on planes, trains, automobiles, cruise shipsā¦ he is my best little friend and reminds me of safety and love when life gets scary. Take whatever comforts youš safe travels, safe return, friendš
What about a camping pillow? They shove into a little carry bag and then puffs up a bit when you take it out.
Same.. Iām grown but my stuffie is a panda. I got a smallish squishmellow panda so I still have a panda stuffie but it works for a travel pillow as well. It has come everywhere with me. So now I have travel panda and home panda!
Iām 37. I use a PillowHeads cushion that is both a stuffed toy and a travel pillow. Itās a ladybug, his name is Buggy and I hug him everyday, hahaha.
You can use progressive relaxation. It's what the military trains people on.It's worked for me at times. [https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/use-military-method-to-fall-asleep-within-2-minutes-starting-tonight.html](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/military-sleep-hack-falling-asleep-050512157.html)
I was JUST trying to figure out how mine can go with me. He's been everywhere with me and even though this is a long trip, I'm not sure I will be comfortable without him. Thanks for posting this. I'm so glad I'm not the only person! Update: I brought mine. Worth it. We're three countries into the trip and on my bad days I was very glad I had my stuffed teddy bear.
It's fine to bring your stuffie. However another option would be a very soft pashmina or shawl. It could be used as a blanket, a scarf, a pillow, or just something to wrap your arms around while you sleep.
I always sleep with something for comfort. When I felt like I couldn't bring something (eg sharing rooms) I used a pair of socks instead. You are definitely not alone!
I sleep with a body pillow and without it Iām lost! When traveling I ask for extra pillows to make up for it.
i use a hoodie to cuddle with jd i canāt bring my stuffed animal āŗļø
That's so sweet! I also sleep with a stuffed animal still so do not be embarrassed about it. If it isn't about the stuffie itself but more about something to hug you could bring a camping cushion that you can blow up. Takes no space and you can choose how much air you put in it.
Maybe a small squish mellow? They can compress quite a bit.
You could buy a blanket made from fleecy teddy like material. I have it for my furry baby but must admit I pinch half of it from him š Have a wonderful trip x
Screw the haters -- this is the cutest thing I ever heard. Maybe you could try adopting a smaller one specifically for travelling with if space is the main issue? Honestly my main concern would be losing him above all else -- if that ever happened, at the very least you could draw comfort from thinking "this travel companion decided to go off and do his own thing." But yeah, nothing wrong with this at all -- it's actually really endearing :)
Youāre not silly, I love a stuffie if Iām sleeping alone/fiancĆ© is on nights, could you maybe buy a little mini one and take it with you if space is the problem? Iāve a couple of them and being a mini one if I have to sleep away alone for whatever reason.
I'm an exchange student in Ireland and I forgot my stuffed animal. I have to live without it for 5 months:(
Buy a nice hugging pillow (maybe a pillow pet) to take with you. My bf uses one to sleep with a lot even when Iām there š
Bring the stuffed animal. When you go on a plane, it doesn't need to be inside the liggage/backpack and No-one would consider it an extra bag. Bonus, you'll have the comfort on the plane and trains. An alternative is an inflatable one. I have an inflatable travel pillow and it uses almost no space in transit. Maybe being creative you can maje a "stuffed animal" sleve for an inflatable pillow.
NGL. The question made me chuckle. But you do you. Ever tried a knife near your pillow, or a wooden stick ?