Having children shouldn’t mean your travel life has to end. From flying to eating on the go, here’s how to travel with a baby or toddler.
15 August 2022
Choose Your Hotel Wisely
First things first. Choosing a baby or child-friendly hotel can make for a genuine holiday. Treading on egg-shells in grown-up restaurants or ferociously scrubbing spilled milk off expensive velvet sofas is not ideal. Opt for services or residences that truly accommodate the needs of families traveling with infants and toddlers. Look for accommodations that provide amenities like sterilizers and blackout blinds; some terrific examples include various family-friendly hotels across popular vacation destinations.
Invest in a Travel Pram
Unbeknownst to many new parents, prams that fail to fold to a precise measurement will often be summoned to the hold by most airlines. This can complicate boarding and exiting the plane substantially. The Babyzen Yoyo is a popular choice among parents for its compact design. Designed for navigating tight spaces, this pram easily folds into a flat shape ideal for transport and storage.
Reserve a Bassinet in Advance for Long Flights
This is territory that tests your planning skills. Long-haul flights require meticulous preparation with babies and young children. The most pressing task at hand is securing a bassinet—often something you can only reserve over the phone after purchasing your tickets. Check the bassinet measurements beforehand as they differ among airlines.
Pack Your Hand Luggage with Precision
With flight times increasingly unreliable, it’s prudent to choose the right flight bag and pack enough food, milk powder, diapers, and clothing for the journey. Having a well-stocked bag can prevent stressful situations on the go. It’s advisable to always travel with ample baby food pouches, fruit pouches, clean spoons, and enough formula for two days. Stay prepared for unexpected delays!
Time Feedings Around Takeoff and Landing
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to feed infants at takeoff and landing. Breastfeeding or giving a bottle can help alleviate ear discomfort caused by air pressure changes. It’s also worth investing in zip-up bottle insulators to maintain milk temperature.
Portable Blackout Blinds for Better Sleep
Bringing portable blackout blinds can significantly improve sleep quality while traveling. Babies and young children’s sleep patterns can make or break a holiday. These suction blinds are easy to install and can help create a dark environment conducive to sleep, even in unfamiliar hotel rooms.
Consider a Portable Bath If Your Hotel Lacks One
Some hotels lack bathtubs. In such cases, investing in a portable baby bath can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing a safe and comfortable bathing option for infants. Inflatable and foldable options are available, making them easy to pack.
Take a Foldable High Chair
A foldable travel high chair is one of the smartest investments for traveling with a baby. These boosters can attach to most chairs and offer a safe space for mealtime, making it easier for parents to dine out without discomfort.
Skip Waterproof Diapers for Swimwear
Consider opting for swimwear like ‘Happy Nappies’ instead of bulky waterproof diapers. These swimwear options fit snugly and can prevent accidents in the water, saving space in your suitcase.
Utilize a Snoozeshade During Summer Holidays
Snoozeshades are fantastic for keeping babies cool and providing necessary shade in warmer climates. They can be attached to strollers, allowing your child to nap comfortably while protecting them from the sun’s harmful rays.
