Have you ever gone on a pleasure trip with a baby? A vacation with a baby may sound dreadful but if you plan well and ahead of time, it may not be as bad as some of us tend to think.
There was a time when I could pack bags for a vacation in one hour. But things began to change after I became a mother. Today, my daughter gets priority over everything so naturally, packing her belongings comes first.
We have to remember to carry so many things with us - diapers, wipes, clothes, shoes, water, feeding bottles and food always comes first. Then comes the body wash, body moisturizer, toys, nasal aspirator, dish soap, bottle brush, towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, bowls, spoons, diaper-changing pad, first-aid box, etc. It's a long list.
Most of the time, I try to make a checklist days before our vacation date because it saves time. I glance over it when packing and it really helps. There were times when I forgot to make a checklist and on every single one of those trips, I left behind at home an necessary item.
If you are traveling by air, try to wear loose, comfortable clothes because your infant is going to be in your or your spouse's lap the entire time. It's therefore best to avoid clothes that get wrinkles easily.
Passing airport security checkpoints with a baby can be draining at times, so I always wear shoes that are easy to put on and take off. On a warm day, I would just wear flip-flops to the airport. If you prefer wearing jeans/trousers during your journey, you can consider taking your belt off while still waiting in queue or not wear a belt at all.
If you are traveling by air, then it is also wise to carry extra clothing with you on the plane, both for you and the baby, especially for the baby. Airplane cabins are sometimes too cold for small babies. Besides, your baby's diaper may overflow or he/she might spit up and spoil his/her clothes.
And do not forget to carry enough diapers, baby formula and food with you. It is wise to be prepared for a delayed or canceled flight. On international flights, the airplanes provide baby foods, but what if your child does not like them?
Try to reach the airport well ahead of your flight time so that you have enough time to change diaper and feed your baby before boarding. Book an aisle seat, if possible, as it will make your trips to the washroom with the baby easier. You can also leave your seat with the baby whenever you have to without disturbing your fellow passengers.
If your baby is traveling by air for the first time, talk to his/her pediatrician before the journey for tips and precautions. Take with you his/her favorite toys and books so you can soothe him/her if s/he hates being in that confined space.
Carry a stroller. A stroller comes very handy, especially if you have sightseeing on your to-do list. Consider purchasing a compact stroller for travel purpose - one that is light and folds with little effort.
Traveling with a baby by road can be difficult too, especially if your child has motion sickness. My one-and-a-half-year old has motion sickness, so on good weather days, we lower the car windows to let in fresh air, carry plastic bags, water and paper towels in the backseat, and make a stop as soon as she shows signs of discomfort.
We also try to schedule our road trips during her nap time so she can sleep during or most of her time in the car. If your child tends to get carsick, you may consider consulting a pediatrician before planning a long road trip.
A baby requires numerous life adjustments. But if we try, we can make these adjustments and still enjoy every hour of our pleasure trips.
By Wara Karim
Date of publication: May 20, 2014
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