Summer is here! Just because you have a baby doesn’t mean you have to stop traveling. Or, perhaps that’s exactly why you want to travel - to take the new arrival to see friends and family they haven’t been able to meet yet.
Traveling can be stressful and uncomfortable, even without a baby in tow. So if you are ready to hit the road (or airport) this summer, take a quick peek at these tips for summer travel with a baby.
Plan for Extra Time
I’m sure you’ve noticed by now that it takes you longer to get out the door post-baby. But the delays don’t stop at the door. Loading and unloading all the extra baby luggage, getting everything through security, extra stops on the road to feed, all these things will add extra time to your travels.
Packing Secrets
Of course you know to bring all of the baby essentials. But what else might you need on the go? Gallon ziplock bags for starters, in case of diaper blowouts and soiled clothes. A foldable changing mat can also be a lifesaver when changing stations are scarce.
You’ll also want extra blankets, burp cloths and pacifiers (and binky clips!). Things get dirty quickly while traveling.
Noisy toys can be great for distracting your baby, but not so great for your fellow plane passengers. Make sure to bring some of your little one’s favorite quiet toys in your carry-on to keep them occupied.
Keep them Hydrated and Dry
If you are headed to the beach or another sunny destination, don’t forget to give your little one more milk, formula and / or water than you normally would at home.
Whenever you’re done splashing around in the waves or kiddie pool, change that swim diaper ASAP. Salt, sand and chlorine are harsh on baby’s sensitive skin, and you don’t want them to end up with diaper rash.
Be Strategic with Feeding Time
Want your tiny tot to sleep on the road or plane? Schedule their feeding time right before, and try to keep them from napping before departure. With these tricks (and a little luck) they’ll be ready to snooze.
Get a Multi-use Cover
Restaurant high chairs, rented car seats, airport benches. There’s no telling where you’ll have to put your baby while traveling, and there’s also no telling how clean any of those spaces are. That’s why our multi-use covers are great for providing a protective layer between your little one and germy surfaces. They also serve as a stretchy and secure nursing cover, or a car seat cover to shade baby from the sun.
Get that Sitter, You Deserve It
A vacation with kids is still a vacation for you and your spouse. While it may be pricier than at home, it’s worth it to pay for a little time with the sitter or resort child care. Even if it’s just for one night out together, or two hours to snag a relaxing couples massage, you will feel so much more rested, refreshed and connected when the trip ends.
Book Close Accommodations
You might be able to stay out all day, but your little one may not be. The last thing you want to do is spend half your vacation driving back and forth between your hotel and the attractions, or dragging all your gear from one side of the resort to the other. Booking a place close to the action will likely be more expensive, but it will also be worth it.
Don’t Forget…ENJOY!
Although it may seem stressful at times, don’t forget to be present and enjoy the moment. With the right planning and tools, you can make memories with your loved ones to last a lifetime!
