Our beta testers, sleep consultant affiliates, and customers shared the following advice:
Set up the pod at home before your trip.
Put the SlumberPod in the living room for your kid(s) to explore.
If possible, have your child sleep in their playard and SlumberPod at home before traveling. Sleep consultants recommend first use at night-time sleep, as your little one will be more tired.
If your baby or toddler is nervous about zipping the main zipper closed, try letting them sleep the first time or two with the zipper open or partially open -- then they may be more comfortable zipping it later. (Note: for babies under a year old, we recommend opening the vents after the baby falls asleep and leaving the main window at least partially open.)
And/or let your baby fall asleep with the zipper open or partially open, then zip it up after he/she falls asleep
More tips and best practices are available on our blog dedicated to first use.