Travelling With Young Children; Useful Tips!

Traveling with young children may seem daunting, but the truth is, that early babyhood can be one of the best times to embark on an adventure. Your baby will sleep through much of the journey, making it an ideal opportunity to enjoy some relaxation and create beautiful memories with your growing family. Whether you choose a peaceful beach getaway or a cozy retreat, your baby’s laid-back attitude can help set the tone for a delightful trip.

The best part? If your baby is well-fed, gets plenty of rest, and stays close to mom and dad, they’ll be content wherever the journey takes them. So why not take advantage of this calm phase and savor a holiday that will strengthen your family bond? Just remember to pick a destination that allows for relaxation because jet-setting from one place to another can be exhausting for you and your little travel buddy. After all, traveling with a baby can feel like handling “celebrity-style” luggage due to all the essentials!

Important Considerations Before Jetting Off

Before you pack your bags and hit the road, there are a few essential things to think about when traveling with a baby.

1. Consult Your Doctor: Let your pediatrician know about your travel plans at least two months in advance, especially if you’re heading on a long holiday abroad. It’s a good idea to ensure your baby has received their first vaccinations, typically around the three-month mark.
2. Choosing a Remote Destination?: If your dream vacation involves an isolated island, it sounds thrilling, but don’t forget to check if there are medical facilities like a doctor and hospital nearby, just in case.
3. Airline Perks: Some airlines offer extra luggage allowance specifically for babies at no additional cost. This is great for bringing all your baby essentials onboard.
4. Security Restrictions: Check airline guidelines about what baby items you can bring in your carry-on, especially when it comes to liquids like formula or baby food.
5. Comfort on Board: If your baby is under 12 months old, some airlines allow you to reserve a baby bassinet. It attaches to the wall in front of you, giving your baby a comfy spot to nap during the flight.
6. Managing Ear Pressure: The shift in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort in your baby’s ears. To help ease this, breastfeeding during those times can assist with ear pressure adjustment. Alternatively, giving your baby a pacifier or bottle can also help.

Packing Smart: Your Baby Travel Checklist

When traveling with a baby, packing thoughtfully can save you from unnecessary stress. Here’s a streamlined list of must-have items:

• Lightweight Folding Pram: If your baby is over six months old, a folding pram that can lay flat for naps is a fantastic choice for your travels.
• Baby Backpack: A sturdy backpack is perfect for carrying washcloths, diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials while keeping your hands free for maximum flexibility.
• Don’t Overpack: You don’t need to bring everything from home. If you’re not heading to a deserted island, pack only for the first couple of days, as you can often purchase baby supplies locally once you arrive.

Essentials for Your Carry-On

For the flight itself, make sure your carry-on is well-stocked with:

• Pre-mixed baby food (or snacks for older children)
• Infant formula and bottles (essential for staying hydrated in dry cabin air)
• A bib, plate, and cutlery for older babies
• An extra set of clothes for those inevitable little mishaps
• Diapers, wipes, and baby-safe medicine for emergencies
• Beloved toys or soothing comfort items to help keep your baby engaged and relaxed.

Bring enough supplies to last for 24 hours in case of flight delays or missing luggage. Babies under 12 months typically fly for free if they share a seat with a parent, making travel more affordable.

Keeping Baby Safe and Comfortable on Arrival

Once you reach your destination, your focus will shift to keeping your little one safe and comfortable. Here are a few tips:

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen is not suitable for babies under 12 months, so ensure they’re protected with cover-up clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and by staying in the shade. Don’t forget to shield them from reflected sunlight off water or sand.
• Stay Hydrated: Whether you’re in a warm or cold climate, it’s crucial to keep fluids readily available to prevent dehydration in your baby.
• Check the Crib: Many hotels offer cribs, but it’s worth inspecting the safety of the crib provided, as standards can vary depending on your location.
• Avoid Overheating: Don’t leave your pram parked in direct sunlight. Babies have difficulty regulating their body temperature, and a hot stroller can lead to overheating.

Preventing Tummy Troubles

Caring for a sick baby or falling ill yourself can add extra challenges to your travel experience. Here are some precautionary steps to avoid any stomach upsets while away:

• Stick to Bottled Water: In certain destinations, it’s wise to avoid tap water and opt for bottled water to mix formula or drink.
• Maintain Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands and avoid using shared towels. Disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer will come in handy for those moments when a proper hand-wash isn’t possible.
• Be Careful with Food Choices: It’s best to avoid raw or undercooked food, especially fish, shellfish, and chicken if you’re unsure about food hygiene standards. Opt for freshly cooked meals whenever possible and avoid long-standing buffets.
• Watch Out for Contaminated Surfaces: Germs lurk on commonly touched surfaces like money, handrails, door handles, and buttons. In shared toilets, flush handles or buttons are particularly bacteria-ridden. Be mindful of these and wash or sanitize your hands frequently.

Make Every Moment Count

While traveling with a baby may require more planning, it’s an opportunity to create cherished memories and strengthen your family’s bond. From savoring new environments to watching your little one experience the world with fresh eyes, these adventures will undoubtedly be worth the extra effort. So, pack smart, stay calm, and enjoy your travels with your precious companion by your side.

And remember, a happy and healthy baby means a great holiday for everyone. Happy travels!