Tips for Traveling with Baby

Traveling with baby can be a little more complicated than before your bundle arrived. There is more planning involved and certainly more things to bring along. When taking a trip, it is helpful to know what you may encounter along the way.

Read below for some more tips on traveling with baby

Flying On an Airplane

If you’re traveling in an airplane, the change in air pressure can cause discomfort in baby’s ears. Feeding baby may help “pop” their ears the same way adults can by swallowing or yawning. To reduce the pressure, try feeding your little one during takeoff or landing.

It may also be helpful to choose a seat on the airplane that will make the flight easier for you and baby.

Many parents enjoy the bulkhead rows because they may accommodate a bassinette. Sometimes seats near the engine are also good options because the humming noise will help your little one sleep. Before booking your flight, you can call the airline company to learn more about seating options and stroller policies. Many airlines allow strollers to be checked for free.

Bring Familiar Toys and Items from Home

Does baby have a favorite toy that they usually play with? Maybe they also have a preferred blanket or comfort object. Bringing along these items will help baby feel more comfortable in a new environment whether it be on a plane, in a relative’s house, or in a hotel room.

Dress Baby for Quick and Easy Diaper Changes

That onesie may come in handy more than you thought. It will give you quick access to diaper changing when on an airplane without a changing table or in a crowded airport bathroom. To keep baby’s legs warm, try pairing it with some high socks or baby leggings. It is also best to avoid outfits that are too constricting, have too few or too many layers, or will not travel well.

Stick with Baby’s Normal Patterns and Routines

Help baby maintain their normal patterns as much as possible. Extended travel times or a change in time zone can disturb baby’s sleeping schedule, so it is best to plan your vacation activities around baby’s schedule until they are fully adjusted. For example, if baby wakes up early, you can start and end your activities earlier. Baby’s internal clock will adapt after a couple days of being in a new place. You can help the adjustment by exposing them to sunlight during daylight hours and not over scheduling during your first few days.

Make Sure Hotel Cribs Meet Safety Standards

Sometimes cribs at hotels may be older models that are no longer recommended. It is important to look up the model of the crib to determine whether it is safe for your baby. If it is not, consider bringing your own portable crib or bassinet.

Promote Baby’s Development On The Go

Traveling is a great way to introduce new language and sensory experiences to baby. While your little one is on the airplane listening to the humming noises, explain how they are coming from the jets. Once you’re at your destination, let baby smell the foods cooking in restaurants and in the home of family members. You can talk about how they are being prepared or what they taste like. There are lots of opportunities to get creative with introducing new sensory experiences on vacation and talking about them will help develop baby’s language skills.