Traveling with Baby

Traveling when you have kids can be tricky, but traveling with a baby is even trickier! A road trip of only a couple hours can easily turn into double that when you consider diaper changes, feedings, etc.

Thankfully, over the years I have gotten better at traveling with baby. The most recent trip we took with my youngest was almost a breeze compared to years before. Make it easier on yourself and check out my traveling with baby tips for ways to keep your sanity and enjoy your trip!

Don’t rush. One of the worst things you can do for your travel plans and for baby is to rush. You need to be able to pace yourself and consider the drive there just as exciting as reaching the destination. You want to be able to pull off at a rest area or stop for a snack if the mood calls for it. Remember that traveling with a baby calls for more travel time.

Come prepared. You know your baby’s routine better than anyone. Do your best to bring familiar items, such as a blanket, stuffy, etc. The necessities are a must, such as diapers, wipes, change of clothes and so forth. Also, if baby is eating solids, make sure you have a food bag ready for his/her snack time/feeding. Keep these within easy reach and at the ready.

Provide a comfortable environment. When traveling, baby can quickly feel out of his/her comfort zone. Do your best to make sure the environment is calm, which means don’t crank the radio. Make sure baby has a familiar toy on hand as well as play soothing music if that is something he/she responds to. Also, it doesn’t hurt to sing lullabies on the drive there.

Change diapers. It can be very easy to forget to check for soiled diapers when the baby is in a car seat. It is a good idea to stop every couple of hours to check. There is nothing more uncomfortable than sitting in a car seat with a messy diaper. Plus, it is a meltdown just waiting to happen.

Get out of the car. If you are traveling a fairly long distance, you are going to want to make periodic stops to stretch your legs and give baby some time away from the car seat. This could mean a walk around the rest area or a shopping trip.

Focus on family-friendly locations. When booking hotels, choosing activities, etc. you want to remember baby. A family-friendly establishment allows you to enjoy your trip as well as recognize baby’s needs.

Traveling with baby shouldn’t be a headache. Enjoy the trip, follow my tips and be ready for some baby-time adventure!