Tips for Traveling with Your Baby or Toddler
It’s time for a vacation! You’ve certainly earned a little R&R, and you want to make it unforgettable. So today we’re sharing our favorite tips for your first trip with baby.
- Preparation is the name of the game
Prepare, prepare, prepare (and then maybe prepare a *little* bit more!). That’s the main secret to having baby’s first vacay go as smoothly as possible for everyone involved. Once you’ve selected a destination, research your transportation and accommodation options thoroughly. For instance: What is the airline’s policy on babies needing their own seat or being able to sit on your lap? Do any local hotels cater specifically to families? (And remember, if you’re traveling overseas, baby needs a passport, and possibly vaccines.)
- Pack like a pro
Of course you’ll want to make a list (and check it twice!) of the essentials needed for baby while you’re away–diapers, bibs, changes of clothes, etc. But, depending on how long you’ll be gone, the amount of luggage you seem to need might feel daunting. If this is the case, you might want to inquire as to whether you can ship supplies directly to your hotel, condo, or local friends or family.
- Don’t forget baby’s faves
In order to keep some sense of routine for baby while out of town, be sure to pack some of his/her favorite beloved objects—like books, toys, and blankets. And try to stick to normal sleep and nap times if possible (if you’re worried about baby falling asleep in a strange place, you might bring our oval lounge mat or round play mat which packs up into our easy travel bag. Does your baby need a new-favorite blanket or toy? Our Finn + Emma blankets are wonderfully soft and made of organic cotton, and our toys are nontoxic, whimsical, and ethically made!
- Be ready to baby-proof
Be aware that you may need to baby-proof your hotel room/condo when you arrive. Some resorts will do this for you ahead of time, but it’s good to be prepared either way, with some electrical-outlet caps and painters’ tape (useful for securing cabinet doors, drawers, etc. shut).
- Make time for yourself
Don't forget about you! After all your careful planning, you can look forward to
kicking back and enjoying! And, if you’re so inclined, many hotels and resorts offer babysitting services, or the concierge can recommend vetted sitters. Plan time to catch up on your reading, check out a great restaurant, take a swim, or whatever your heart desires.
We’ll walk through each of these tips:
- Book direct flights
- Keep baby as happy as possible in-flight
- Pack an easily accessible change of clothes for both you and baby
- Bring the essentials—and leave your stroller behind
- Keep germ-free with the help of a few simple items
Book direct flights
If you’re looking to fly somewhere, by all means look for direct flights. This will save you a lot of hassle and headaches associated with rushing from one plane to another, with baby and possibly luggage in tow. If direct flights are not possible, or they are cost-prohibitive, try to build in a longer layover. This may sound counterintuitive, but it’s less stressful. Also remember, if you’re traveling overseas: babies need passports. Oh, and airport pro tip: hit the restroom before boarding!
Keep baby as happy as possible in-flight
This probably comes as no surprise, but most babies don’t love flying, especially if it’s their first time. It’s a completely new experience but can also come with discomfort, particularly ear pain from the changes in air pressure. In the same way you might suck on a hard candy or drink a ginger ale to help with your own ear-popping issues, the same type of tricks will help baby. You can try giving them a breast, small bottle, or sippy cup, during take-off and landing. Chewing a cookie or other snack can help toddlers.
Pack an easily accessible change of clothes for both you and baby
You may already be in the habit of doing this, but…especially when you’re traveling, a change of clothes is something you want to have handy! For both you and baby. If you’re flying, put the extra clothes in your carry-on so that they are readily available.
Bring the essentials—and leave your stroller behind
We know…it sounds crazy to leave your stroller at home, but just think how much more freedom you will have, not having to check or otherwise stow it when you’re on various types of transportation! Bring your favorite carrier or baby wrap, and you’re good to go. And if you’ll be renting a car at your destination, look into renting a car seat for baby (rather than trying to bring one with you).
Keep baby germ-free with the help of a few simple items
Whenever you’ll be out and about with baby this summer, it’s a great idea to bring a pacifier holder that you can easily clip onto baby’s clothing, so the pacifier stays clean, rather than end up on the ground (we’ve all been there!). Ours are washable and feature small knitted friends that your little one will love. Also, once you try our stroller toys that can attach to a stroller or car seat, you won’t go back. They are made from natural untreated wood and/or organic cotton, and they’re as cute as can be.
We wish you safe and happy travels this summer, wherever you may be headed!
