Modern Mama Life

Traveling with a baby – Your guide to stress free adventures

I know traveling with a baby can sound really stressful and overwhelming, but it can also become a rewarding experience for your family. A lot of parents postpone travel after having a child assuming it will be too difficult. Parents also think that their baby won’t remember all of this, so why bother. Well I remember all of it. I hope that one day when he’s older he will look back at the photos from the trips we took and know how much he was loved from the very beginning.

It may be just a weekend getaway or even an international holiday, it can definitely be possible if you are well prepared. The first time I travelled with my baby, I went all out! I was afraid that I’m either packing too much or too little. As a new mom, I tend to put a lot of pressure on myself and overthink everything. What if its too hot? What if our flight gets delayed? I was so afraid I would forget to pack something.

So if you are an overthinker and are really nervous for your baby’s first trip like me, I completely understand. I hope the tips I share from my experience will be useful and will make your journey more enjoyable.

Choosing the best destination for travelling with a baby

It is very important to have proper research before traveling with a baby as not every destination is baby-friendly. You must consider:

1. Accessibility – Ensure your accommodation is baby-friendly and is nearby basic facilities like pharmacies or grocery stores in case of emergencies.
2. Weather – Destinations with extreme weather conditions, either too hot or too cold may not be the best option for your baby. Choose destinations that have moderate temperatures.
3. Travel time – Choose shorter flights rather than long-haul ones as babies tend to get restless and cranky or if its possible, work around your baby’s schedule.

The Best time to be travelling with your baby

I would say the best age to be traveling with a baby is when they’re 4-6 months. They take frequent naps, they are only on formula or breastmilk and pretty easy to carry around. We recently took a trip with our 4 month old on a 6-hour flight so here’s a quick guide in terms of packing essentials and some tips for the journey.

You can download the list below or read on for details.

Flying with the baby – What parents need to carry

Diaper Essentials:

Emergency situations can happen anytime when your with a baby. While travelling, carry extra diapers for a whole day in case of flight delays. This includes diapers, baby wipes, diaper rash cream, disposable changing mat, hand sanitizer(or you can use the wipes).

Feeding Essentials:

Now this would depend if the baby is breastfed or formula fed. My baby was breastfed and honestly, it was a real challenge trying to feed him in a full aircraft. So between my baby yelling with hunger and dinner being served, I ended up formula-feeding him. For breastfeeding moms, try getting your hands on this nursing cover, carry your breast pump in your carry-on if your on a long flight, milk storage bags, nursing pads and a cooler bag for milk storage. If your baby is formula-fed, you need to get these pre-measured formula containers! In-flight, they were a real life-saver. Carry sterilized bottles, a bottle brush with bottle cleaner and a thermos with warm water. You could carry a portable bottle sterilizer, but since the hotel I stayed at had cooking facility in-room, I just steamed the bottles in boiling water.

Baby Clothing essentials:

This would depend on the climate of your destination. All in all, you need to carry comfortable clothing for the baby, some onesies, pajamas, socks, caps, swimsuit. (if needed) Its very important to carry 2-3 extra sets in your carry on. Also carry an extra pair of clothes for both parents.

Sleeping Essentials:

I would highly recommend booking a night flight, or whatever time of day the baby is sure to sleep. This was probably the best decision we made for our travel. Carry a blanket for the baby as well.

Travel Gear:

This would be optional, based on your requirements, your destination and purpose of travel. Opt for a lightweight stroller that is aircraft friendly, if your going on a road trip, you will need a car seat. Another important item is a portable fan. Since we traveled during summer, this came in very handy.

Health & Hygiene Essentials:

Baby first aid kit is extremely important. Carry some fever medicine, a baby thermometer, nasal aspirator, bandaids, baby-safe sunscreen or any other medication prescribed. Also carry toiletries for your baby like soap, shampoo, body lotion and cream.

Entertainment Essentials:

Long journeys tend to make babies very restless. Carry their favorite soft toys, teething toys, pacifiers, books or any other comfort items.

Other Essentials:

Also remember to carry other important things like travel documents, birth certificate, vaccination records, and a portable power bank.

Common Challenges while traveling with a baby & how to handle them

1. Delayed flights – Pack extra diapers, clothes and baby formula
2. Crying in public – Stay calm and focus on your baby’s needs. Most parents are concered about what others think
3. Sun protection – Protect your baby with sunscreen and carry an umbrella or a hat for extra protection
4. Emergency Situations – Make sure to always carry a first-aid kit and any prescribed medications. Also remember to carry any insurance related documents and emergency contacts.

If your waiting for the “right time” to travel or for a time when traveling becomes easy, you will probably never travel. Of course, with a baby, things don’t always go as planned. However, years from now I won’t remember all of the diaper changes and sleepless nights. But what I do remember are the sleepy cuddles and the excitement that we had when we were exploring together.

When your prepared, traveling with a baby becomes much easier. Focus on comfort and safety. Instead of focusing on carrying everything, you must remember to carry the right things.