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Holidaying with a baby might sound like a contradiction in terms - how can you ever relax when your little one needs round-the-clock care? However, with the right prep it is certainly possible to enjoy travel as a young family - and arguably, it’s necessary. Whether you’re heading away on an overseas holiday or visiting relatives 100 miles away, a bit of know-how certainly goes a long way. This guide seeks to cover everything you need to feel more confident about travelling with a baby - for necessity or for relaxation.
Timing is everything
It’s preferable to travel at a time that works with your baby’s schedule. This may mean planning early flights while the little one is still sleepy; at other times, it may include planning a long drive during a standard nap time. Avoid booking flights or trains around “witching hour” if at all possible. It will be immensely less stressful for everyone.
Pack like a pro
It’s tempting and understandable to take an “everything but the kitchen sink” approach, but heavy bags will quickly wear you down and make it harder both physically and mentally. Packing many bags will also give you more to keep track of, which is no fun at all. Dress in layers rather than bulky garments, and carry pre-portioned milk formula if needed. Also use ziplock bags for things like spare baby clothes, snacks, wipes, and toys. Have a blanket or comforter close to hand to ensure the baby can be soothed in unfamiliar surroundings.
Go hands-free where possible
A sling, papoose, or baby carrier can be a lifesaver, especially in bus or train stations or airports. This way you can keep your hands free while your baby is kept close, and can avoid the awkward task of pushing a pram while dragging a suitcase.
Choose travel-friendly equipment
Baby gear is not generally designed with travel in mind, so when it comes to travelling with a little one, travel-friendly alternatives are very much a benefit. A baby bag that goes easily over one shoulder is great, while a travel pram that can be folded away and stored may be a game-changer. The latter doesn’t need to be checked in nor waited for at the other end, so it can stay with you and be hugely beneficial during the waiting spell at baggage reclaim.
Plan for feeding
Whether you’re breastfeeding or going from the bottle, having everything within reach is crucial. If you’re flying, bring more formula or expressed milk than you think you’ll need, because delays can throw off plans. Have snacks with you for older babies and toddlers to ensure that calm can be restored mid-journey.
Build in buffer time
Much of the time, scheduling is an exercise in imagining how things would go in an ideal world. However, with baby in tow, things simply will take longer and it’s essential to factor in time for feeding, nappy changes and blowouts. Hopefully things will go more smoothly and you’ll just have built in some time to take a breath and relax - but allowing for hangups is essential when you can never guarantee they won’t happen.
K Elizabeth xoxox
*Collaborative Post
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