- Tips for Travel with Kids
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- Travel with Infants
Two fathers on a hike with young children
Photo by Ann LoCicero
Tell anyone you are going on a trip with your baby and you’ll get responses from “you’re brave” to “you’re crazy!” Taking your infant on holiday can be great fun, as long as you accept that your plans will need to be constantly adapted…to please the baby.
The key to a successful, low-stress trip is flexibility. So, forget about over planning. Your baby will need frequent breaks for feeding, changing and resting.
When to Travel
The younger they are the easier it is. As several parents commenting on the Berkley Parents Network point out, traveling with a child under 3 months has its advantages. They sleep anywhere you put them and if you are breastfeeding, you do not need to carry any special food or feeding paraphernalia. Between three and seven months of age most babies begin to follow a routine. And because they do not crawl or walk, they can spend hours on an airplane, in a car seat or in a stroller. At about seven months of age, your child's need for movement will increase your need to compromise. They will demand frequent breaks and require time to explore.
- Make sure your baby is up to date on her standard immunizations.
- Prepare a list of local emergency services and doctors. Don't forget to include the telephone number of each.
- Sunscreen is generally not recommended for babies under six months; so try to keep your baby out of the sun as much as possible.
- Use bottled water and sterilize bottles and nipples.
- Trips to some developing countries and remote destinations require special precautions; speak with your travel doctor before you book.
- Don’t over pack. Bring nappies to last the first few days, buy the rest when you arrive.
- Plan to dress your baby in practical clothes.
- Take one or two toys that are engaging and stimulating.
- If your child uses a pacifier, bring several of the same type.
- Include a thermometer and bulb syringe in your first aid kit.
- You’ll need a stroller, but bring one that’s as lightweight as possible.
- If you are hiring a car, make sure you rent a car seat.
