Traveling With Your Baby: Some Essential Dos And Don’ts
The prospect of traveling with a baby is always a stressful one. So many things have to go right for everything to fall into place, it can make your head spin.
Even so, some parents manage it and even have a good time while traveling with an infant. But what are their secrets?
That’s what you’re about to find out. This guide lists some dos and don’ts if you want to turn your baby into a month-old tourist.
In this post you'll find:
Do Pack Intelligently
First, you’ll want to pack intelligently. Packing everything you need like wipes, diapers, food, bottles, blankets, and clothes is essential if you know you will be on the road for a long time.
You’d be surprised just how many things babies need to keep them going. Children require all sorts of little things that you will forget if you rush it, so always take the time to create a careful list and figure out exactly what it is that you want.
Do Bring Entertainment
If traveling with a baby, it is also a good idea to bring some entertainment with you. Your child needs something to do!
Your best bet here is to bring quiet toys with you, especially if you’re going to go on an airplane. These keep your child amused during the journey without disturbing anyone else.
You can also pack things like books and apps if you want. These are ideal for slightly older babies or those looking to take their first steps. Reading or playing games can be soothing.
Do Take Breaks
Another tactic is to take regular breaks along your trip to prevent everyone from getting too tired, including you. Stopping off keeps your baby calm and gives you a chance to feed and pat them.
Taking breaks on long trips is great for feeling more comfortable. But that isn’t the only perk. You can also stop for coffee if you feel tired or check out the local food scene if you have time.
Do Bring Something For Your Baby To Sleep In
It’s also a good idea to bring something for your baby to sleep in. Portable bassinets are excellent options, since these work with most forms of transport, including airplanes.
Look for lightweight designs that fold away easily. Also, pick models that you can clean easily if your baby likes to dribble or bring up bile from time to time.
Do Ensure Safety
You also want to ensure safety when traveling with your baby. Make sure you’re doing whatever you can to keep them safe.
Most babies need an approved car seat for travel in the majority of countries. Therefore, double-check check you have all the right equipment for their needs.
If you need to buy a regulation car seat, do so. These are mandatory in some countries, so always check before you travel to be on the safe side.
Don’t Overpack
When traveling with a baby, be careful not to overpack, however tempting it might feel. Bringing too many things with you can weigh you down and prevent you from having a good time. There’s nothing worse than lugging ten bags through an airport on a trolley, trying to keep an eye on everything as well as your child.
Where possible, pare back what you need and think carefully about what you can do to cut back. For example, do you need to bring thick blankets for your child if you’re going somewhere warm?
Don’t Ignore Your Baby’s Signals
Just because you’re traveling, you shouldn’t ignore your baby’s signals. They don’t know what’s going on, so they’ll continue to do what they’ve always done.
For example, if you know your baby is hungry, go ahead and feed them on the trip with formula or breast. Bring a cloth with you if you’re in a public place.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
It’s also okay to ask for help when traveling with a baby. Airline staff and other transport crews will be more than happy to find ways to make your experience better if they can.
For example, the airline crew will usually allow you to board first with your baby and set everything up, including your bassinet. They will also bring you things you need, like warm bottles of milk from the kitchen, even before it is officially mealtime.
Don’t Skip Hygiene Essentials
Finally, it’s a bad idea to skip hygiene essentials while traveling, especially since your baby will be exposed to a new bacterial environment. Keep the basics, like Dettol and sanitary wipes nearby, just in case you need to disinfect anything or clean up a mess.
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