Traveling with a baby is no easy task. Whether you’re planning to take a trip in a car or on a plane, there are certain things that you need to have with you to make the time pass as smoothly as possible. When you’re catering to the demands of another person who can’t verbalize what their needs are, it can certainly be tricky business. The only way to conquer this and make sure that everything goes OK is to plan and prepare as best as you possibly can.
Traveling by Car
This is the most common method of getting from A to B. While it can save on travel expenses there are a few things you need to be prepared for. You are confining them to a space where they get to stare at a headrest or a seat for longer than they would like to. One way to combat that boredom is to travel during nap times! If you have a shorter trip try to plan the car ride to take place during your child’s longest nap of the day. Or if it’s a long car ride, consider leaving around bedtime and driving through the night. This does require another adult so you can switch off drivers and each of you get a little sleep while traveling.
Another trick you can try is having someone sit in the backseat with the child. Babies love being talked to, even if you’re just going over random thoughts in your head. The noise coming from you and just knowing that you’re there is one of the only stimulants they will need.
Also, make sure that you have plenty of snack choices and drinks available for the journey; there are some great tips and recommendations all over the web on sites like BabyTravelMadeEasy.com , so draw your inspiration on what will tantalize your little one’s tastebuds from whatever source possible. Be sure to grab some extra diapers and wipes before you go. When Peyton was little and we traveled I always liked to take enough for what we typically went through and then some extras. When you take children out of their routine and change up the environment you never know what is going to happen. Take as many changes as clothes to cover every eventuality – think travel sickness, overeating, diaper explosions, dribble and any other bodily fluid you can bare to imagine whilst preparing.
Traveling by Plane
This is a whole different experience – not only are you responsible well-being wellbeing and comfort of your little one, but you have to consider a whole planeload of people, too. It can be stressful traveling with little ones. We may think they are super loud, when in reality they are not. One way to help keep your child quiet is to keep them occupied! When we take a plane, I pack a bag full of toys and activities that can be enjoyed in a small space. And if you can, I highly suggest upgrading to first class. Keep an eye on airfares and take into consideration how much you will be paying for luggage fees. Sometimes the amount you are paying in luggage fees is the difference in the ticket prices between coach and first class. And in first class, you don’t pay luggage fees! Don’t forget to check the TSA site to see what snacks and drink you are allowed to bring on. But if you are flying first class they have plenty of snacks and kid-friendly beverages, complimentary! Just remember to bring a sippy cup to help prevent spills.
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