It’s not unusual for couples with a baby to shy away from the thought of going on a vacation, especially overseas. Many tend to think that it’s best to wait until their child gets a little older. Well, we’re here to convince you that you do NOT have to wait and the time to travel is now!
The most ‘portable’ window of time
Firstly, it never fails to surprise us why people assume that vacationing with a baby is a complicated affair. Believe us, it’s not. First and foremost, your little bundle happens to be ‘portable’ at the moment, but this won’t last very long! Babies tend to not move around much on their own yet — for they can’t — so they won’t be testing your patience by running around at the airport or attempting to stroll down airplane aisles when the “fasten seatbelt” sign is on. If you can’t yet imagine what that’s like, just ask any parents of slightly older children if they have it that easy travelling with their kids and you’ll know what we mean.
Babies aren’t very verbal either, so they won’t be causing a stir just yet with their impossible-to-entertain requests.
In turn, though, they might present some other (easier to handle) issues such as crying when they’re uncomfortable or in need of attention, and of course, they need to be fed and have their diaper changed a few times during the days and nights. You may have to also face the affects of their routines being disrupted if they’re accustomed to a regular eating and sleeping schedule at home. Still, we promised earlier on that it’s no big deal and we’re about to give away some important tips for holidaying with a baby.
There are, of course, some crucial things that have to be seen to before taking off, so that your trip will be well-planned and you’ll be prepared for anything.
Extra special tip:
Keep some main baby items in all your bags
If you should lose a piece of luggage, which is not that uncommon, can you imagine what it’ll be like if all of baby’s things are in that one bag? Well, just in case… pack some extra baby essentials in as much luggage as possible, just so you can get by till your lost bag is found.
Let the doc know where you’re going
Your little one is more vulnerable to germs than you are, so before you head off anywhere, a visit to your pediatrician’s office for a complete check-up is essential for your peace of mind. The doctor needs to know where you’re travelling to so that he can see to it that all baby’s vaccines are up-to-date. While you’re there, you could also obtain your doctor’s advice on medicines to take with you on your trip in case of fevers, flu, or coughs during your vacation.
Stock up that diaper bag!
Unprecedented incidents such delays at the airport and messy accidents in the plane, for instance, are not that uncommon. So, it won’t hurt to think ahead and be prepared for anything. Think extra diapers, bottles baby wipes. When it comes to a baby, anything that you can bring extra of might just come in handy, and this includes baby food and formula, plus changes of clothes for both baby and you — you’ll never know when you might need it.
Absolute necessity:
Changing mat
Never underestimate the convenience of this item! With this little mat rolled out, just about any surface can become a clean and safe nappy-changing station. If you do not own a changing mat yet, pick one which is compact when rolled up or folded so it will not take up much space. Some good diaper bags include this item as a set.
Painter’s tape for baby-proofing purposes
Before you even wonder why, it’s just to cover electrical outlets, tape up loose wires, and secure any drawers or areas that you don’t want a baby to explore. Clever, isn’t it? Bring along some binder clips too, for securing baby’s blanket to the stroller for wind and sun protection.
Toys for distraction
Clip-on toys can easily connect to a baby’s outfit, making it easy to keep infants distracted while waiting in line or sitting at the gate. Bring along a couple of new toys that your baby has never seen before — these may help distract your little one a little longer.
What to expect at airport security
If you are travelling with a baby or infant you’re generally allowed to carry a reasonable amount of liquid and liquidised food for your journey. To assist security screening though, it’s best not to carry them in flasks. Spare supplies must be packed in your hand luggage. You can carry the liquids as part of your liquid bag allowance, in which case the standard liquid rules apply. Following x-ray screening, security officers may need to carry out routine checks on these items.
Note too that there may be limitations on medicines, lotions, or any other products in liquid form that you may typically carry for your baby, so to be safe, get these and any personal care liquid products you may need for yourself, in travel sizes.
Minimising ear pressure
The changes in air pressure during the take-off and landing of an airplane may cause pressure in its passengers’ ears, and babies are no exception. Let baby suck on a bottle or pacifier during these times. Both will help him to swallow continuously, which helps to clear the ears. A bottle or pacifier will also help keep baby quiet during the flight.
Remember, it doesn’t hurt to…
…keep other passengers in mind! Babies may get fussy during a long flight. Keep the peace with other passengers by offering them earplugs to drown out the sound of crying. Or, you can even offer to buy them drink or snacks when the flight attendant comes around, as a gesture to indicate your appreciation for their patience in putting up with the sounds of a fussy baby.
Book a seat for the baby
Yes, we’re well-aware that children younger than two years can be “lap babies” on airplanes for free, but did you know that it may be safer to have your little bundle strapped to a baby car seat during take-off, landing, and turbulence? Baby car seats are just as safe in airplanes as they are in a ground vehicle. Having a seat for a baby also means that your hands are fully free for most of the flight. So, if you can afford it, book one!
Bring the stroller!
Trust us, you’ll need it to ease your burden while you make your way through the airport with your bags and all. Apart from not having to carry a baby all the way, you can also make use of the extra storage space, just as you would on any outing with baby. Most airlines allow strollers to be gate-checked, so you’ll have it up until you depart and immediately upon landing.
No need to rush out
With all of baby’s toys, snacks, and other necessities, you don’t want to risk leaving something behind. So, instead of trying to rush out with your baby, use the time to gather all of your belongings. When you’re done, there will be more room to make it off the plane quickly and easily with a baby.
At your destination
Accommodation. Depending on your budget and preferences, you might choose to book a regular hotel room, a suite, or connecting rooms. While a regular room should do nicely for a small family, a suite may offer the convenience of a kitchen area, where else connecting rooms may afford more space at a cheaper price.
Stick to the routine
If your baby’s bedtime ritual at home includes a bath, lullabies, and a bottle, do the same on vacation to lessen the effects of the change in location.
Travel cot: If you can, why not? If a better night’s sleep for your baby means a lot to you, you can’t go wrong with a travel cot. These clever portable cots are becoming a popular item these days as a convenient item if you’re travelling with a baby. They’re quite competitively priced, are exceptionally lightweight, and fold up easily. Best of all, they tend to come in their own travel case for easy portability.
Designate a diaper-changing station. Once you’re settled in, the first thing you might want to do is to spare a spot in the room for diaper changing. Try placing a disposable changing pad on top of a towel and place all the necessary items on it such as diapers, baby’s clothes, dry towels, wipes, etc. With everything already set up and in place, there will be no rummaging through suitcases in search of essential stuff.
Mind your baby’s nap times. A well-rested baby means a less cranky one, so, while it’s tempting to go sightseeing as much as possible (or enjoy your shopping sprees), do let your baby get his rest. You probably need your rest too, so take a breather while baby snoozes.
Why homestays are popular
Standard hotel rooms might be alright for a night or two, but for vacations that are week-long or more, a condominium or vacation home rental would be a better choice. This way, you’ll have the convenience of a full kitchen for cooking and storing snacks and drinks; a dining table for mealtimes as well as a washer/dryer, etc.
Baby travelling and holiday essentials
If you’ve got a vacation or any sort of travelling with your baby on the menu, it’s safe to say that the little one will be needing a whole lot of stuff to be comfortable and happy. You can choose to go as basic as you can for your own needs, but with a baby, there’s no telling what you’ll be in want of while on the go.
Here, we’ve put together a checklist of items you’ll find indispensable while travelling with a little one.
Car seat. A securely-fitted seat is essential for a baby’s safety while travelling by car. You’ll find it useful also while travelling by plane, train or bus.
Stroller. When it comes to this indispensable item, an all-terrain infant stroller or pushchair is ideal for off-road and bumpy walks, while a lightweight collapsible one is better suited to town and city locations.
Baby carrier. Not all babies are going to be content being pushed for long in a stroller. This is where a baby carrier should come in handy. It is invaluable for keeping a fussy baby close to you and calmer too when you’re in a busy airport, train station, or city.
Baby blanket. Not only will this be useful on the journey for comfort, shade, and warmth, but if it smells of home it may also help to comfort your baby.
Information card
This can even be a folded up piece of paper, as long as it has all useful phone numbers in it, such as emergency contact numbers, insurance helplines and the number for your accommodation. Keep it with you all the time.
Diaper bag. A must-have for a travelling mom to place all essential baby supplies in. If you haven’t got one yet, chose a diaper bag with lots of compartments for easy storage and organising. You may also want to get one that comes with a changing mat so you won’t have to purchase one separately. Some diaper bags also come with a built-in insulator for keeping milk bottles warm.
Baby wipes. Never leave home without a few packs of these to help keep little hands (and face) clean and grime-free at all times!
Passports
Everyone travelling will need a valid passport, including your baby. You should also check whether you need a visa to enter the country you are visiting. If your baby doesn’t share your surname, you may also need some extra documents. Check with our Malaysian Registration Department for advice on this matter.
Baby’s clothing
Plenty of outfits. If possible, find out whether there are laundry facilities available where you’re staying. If so, you’ll only need to bring a few outfits, but otherwise, try to pack two complete sets for each day.
Pack some long-sleeved tops, and long trousers or dresses to keep the sun off your baby. If you are going somewhere cool, bring clothes that are easy to layer so that your baby will always be comfortable. Some hot countries are known to lose heat and can get quite cold at night.
Baby hat. To keep the sun off, pack a hat with a wide brim that covers your baby’s face and neck. If it will be chilly, pack a woollen or fleece hat for warmth.
Diapers and supplies. Pack lots of diapers for the journey. If you’re worried about not being able to buy a certain brand of diapers at your destination, you may want to take enough for the whole trip. Diaper supplies to pack include nappy rash cream, nappy bags, and wipes.
Bedtime and bathtime
Foldable travel bassinet. This item is getting quite popular — it’s a foldable bassinet and diaper bag in one! It opens up to a bassinet with lots of compartments for diapers, bottles, toiletries, wipes, etc, and folds up into a large diaper bag.
Baby pyjamas. Pack a few of these to keep your little one comfortable at night.
Baby sleeping bag. It helps to keep a baby warm, cozy, and comfortable for a good night’s sleep.
Bath plug. A universal travel bath plug fits any plughole and is useful for turning any basin into a baby bath.
Baby’s toiletries. Pack baby’s sponge, baby wash, shampoo, and lotion in a toiletry bag for easy and quick access when needed.
Baby sunscreen. Pack sunscreen to protect your little one against UVA and UVB. Use and reapply as indicated on the tube or bottle.
Plug-in night-light. This can be useful for night-time feeds and nappy changes.
First-aid kit. Be sure to take all the important first-aid supplies for your baby and you.
Feeding essentials
Nursing cover or poncho. Take this with you for some privacy while breastfeeding in public places and also on the flight.
Breast pump. Pack it if you think you’ll be needing it.
Nursing cream. It’s always good to have this handy for relief from sore or cracked nipples.
Disposable breast pads. Include a pack of these to avoid wet spots from leaky breasts showing up on your blouse.
Baby formula. If you’re not breastfeeding, do bring enough formula for your baby. You’ll also need a few feeding bottles, bottle brushes, sterilizing tablets, and a bottle warmer too.
Meals
Baby food. Bring more baby food than you think you’ll need just to be on the safe side. In any case, you should be able to purchase more at your destination.
Snacks. Bring generous amounts to keep your little one suitably contented and happy.
Travel first-aid checklist
A first-aid kit is an essential item to pack for you’ll never know when you’ll be needing emergency supplies. You can purchase ready-packed kits or put one together on your own. Either way, ensure that the following are included:
- Prescription medicines If your baby is taking them
- A digital thermometer
- Infant painkillers — Ask your doctor for a recommendation
- Antiseptic cream or spray
- Plasters, bandages, and scissors
- Mosquito repellent
- Calamine lotion
Optional travel items
Baby monitor. This will be particularly useful if your baby is sleeping indoors while you enjoy the evening on the terrace.
Travel blackout blinds. A useful item to bring along if you want to put your baby down for a nap during the day. It will help in blocking out the sunlight.
Travel safety gate. This will give you peace of mind if you’re worried about doors to balconies or pools.
Plug adapter. If you’re going abroad, you’ll need at least one of these so you can use your baby monitor or night-light, and also to charge your phone.
Baby foldable bathtub. This clever, portable tub is handy for babies who just love their baths and those who don’t take too easily to unfamiliar bathtubs.
Camera. To capture all those fine memories of a holiday with baby! Don’t forget your charger and an extra memory card too.
Have a grand time with your baby and happy holidays!
Featured image source: www.medibank.com.au
