With summer here and the holidays right around the corner, I thought it would be a good idea to share some of the things I’ve learned to help make traveling with babies and toddlers a bit more bearable!
Here are some tips to consider/remember the next time you are heading off for the weekend or for longer.
Don’t Forget…
Don’t forget that baby and children need lots of things when they travel. These are some must-have items, as well as items that may make traveling less stressful.
• Dress the kids in layers. It could easily be hot outside, but if the air conditioning is on while traveling, the kids could get cold very quickly. Also keep at least one change of clothes for each child handy.
• Diapers. Make sure you pack enough (or more!) to get you at least to your destination, and don’t forget to bring wet wipes, a changing mat, and diaper rash cream just in case.
• Formula and/or milk, as well as a small cooler to keep everything at the proper temperature.
• Baby food if your child is still eating it.
• Any necessary medication, and you may also want to pack medicines to reduce fever and an antihistamine in case of an allergies.
• Any medication or device that the baby may use on a regular basis must be carried.
• A portable crib, car seat, and stroller if you have room for it.
Traveling By Car
This is probably the easiest way to travel with kids. They are still comfortable and in their element (the car), and you have control of when you leave, how often you stop, and have no restrictions on what you can take with you. Bring along favorite blankies or other security items, as well as snacks and things to keep them busy.
Make sure to stop often to feed the kids and let them out to stretch. Make sure the seatbelts are on comfortably and not too tight.
Traveling By Plane
Some airlines do not allow passengers to bring liquid formula on to the plane, so make sure to bring powdered formula instead and buy bottled water after you’ve passed security.
When the plane takes off and lands, remember that there will be a noticeable change in the pressure and that may bother the baby. Breast feed or give the baby a bottle to help ease the discomfort.
Check to see if the airline will allow a carseat on the plane, and don’t forget to pack all of baby’s essentials in your carry on.
At The Hotel
Make sure to ask for a room with a refrigerator or a room that can accommodate one to store milk or formula. You can even ask the hotel for the name and contact information of a local pediatrician in case of emergency. Hotels are required to provide cribs that meet FDA safety standards, so make sure to let them know you need one when you check in.
What other travel tips can you offer?
