Many parents dread the feeling of travelling with a baby. Some would even say it is an impossible thing to do, which is probably due to the fact they have not yet found the approaches that work for them. Travelling with an infant is not only doable but it can also be a whole lot of fun! For easy travelling with your baby, consider these baby travel tips for your next trip.
1. Play and sleep on the go
A well-rested baby is a happy baby. Hence, do try to maintain your baby's napping and bedtime schedules as they normally would, starting from the journey itself. This does not mean driving all night when your baby is asleep, because then mommy and daddy would have to stay up late and be unhappy. Instead, plan to travel (drive or flight) during the day without distracting your baby's schedule.
When your baby is awake, ensure your baby has enough toys to play with. It is also helpful if one person could accompany the baby in the backseat during playtime (if travelling by car). When it's time for a nap, stow away all the toys and put on soothing music or turn off the radio until your baby falls asleep.
2. Book a suite/connecting rooms/vacation rentals
Imagine everyone is gathered in the same room, you would probably have to go to sleep when your baby sleeps. Also, having a separate room for the baby helps them to fall asleep easily as they would at home and it makes it easier if you want to watch a movie or have a conversation while your baby is sleeping. You will definitely have to pay more for this convenience, but a good night's sleep is worth it, especially if your itinerary is packed!
3. Request for a crib
Sure you can bring your own foldable and portable crib, but it could take so much space in the car's trunk and can lead to extra baggage fees when flying. Prior to booking a hotel or a vacation rental, do request/check if they have a crib available. Some hotels would provide free of charge, and some would charge at affordable rates. Most babies will sleep more soundly in a full-sized crib, too.
4. Pack light and follow a checklist
A packing checklist is essential when travelling with a baby. With so many things to remember and pack, a checklist makes the process so much easier and less stressful. It also ensures that you do not overpack by bringing the whole house with you!
And just like a portable crib, diapers can too take up so much space in the baggage. Pack what you need for your journey and consider buying/shipping the rest of the diapers that you need at your vacation destination.
5. Think safety first
While a vacation is all about relaxation and fun, it is best to be prepared for sickness or injury. Be sure to bring health insurance cards, prescriptions or over-the-counter medications that you think you might need. If you are going overseas, you might want to purchase travel insurance for the whole family, too.
You will also want to ensure all of the high-touch surfaces such as hotel room remotes and door handles as well as armrests and trays are all sanitized with antibacterial wipes. Keep your baby's hands clean with baby wipes, too.
And more importantly, do check on all of your baby's gears - car seats, strollers, and carriers if they are all working perfectly fine. Double-check and test all the harnesses and clips attached ahead of time.
