Baby on Board
If travelling with your new-born is on the agenda this Festive Season, but you are already breaking out in a sweat because of it … no need. Yes, traveling with a baby definitely will have its’s crazy moments; it may not always be easy or vomit-free, but, in many ways, babies are surprisingly good travellers.
27 November 2022
Living Fedhealthy
Is it even safe to travel with a new-born?
Yes, it most certainly is, provided that your baby is at least two days old. If you’ll be traveling with a newborn by air, be sure that your baby is at least two days old, as this is the minimum age allowed by most airlines. When you’re baby has passed her two-day mark, you are good to go.
Babies generally make good travellers as long as they are fed, feel cuddled and secure. However, you may want to think twice before embarking on any long journeys if your baby has colic or if you’re just feeling overwhelmed by parenting this tiny little human – perhaps wait a few weeks until you’re more settled. This will also give you more time to establish a feeding and changing routine.
By three months, mom and baby are more likely to be ready to travel. Baby will no longer be as fragile, but is still small enough not to mind whether her bed is at home or in a hotel room, as long as she’s being cuddled close to you.
Tips for travel-weary parents
- Avoid too much luggage. Minimize your gear to one suitcase, one diaper bag as your only carry-on, and a stroller (plus your precious baby cargo!). If you’re traveling with more than one suitcase and more than one carry-on … you’re looking for trouble! Do some research on what is available at your destination and pack only what you need for a day or two.
- Wear your baby. Hands free is the only way to travel with an infant. Try a front carrier, if you’ve never used one at home, try it out a few times before your adventure.
- Never, never order that cappuccino an hour before boarding! Yes, it tastes good, so good … but it also creates the need for an extra trip to the loo. When nature does call, your partner or one of the friendly flight attendants can attend to baby while you use the facilities. Off course it’s safe, they’re definitely not leaving the plane and they’ll be more than willing to help with the cutest of all passengers.
- Board the plane early. To jump on a plane during final boarding call is ideal, but babies change everything! Smile and politely ask about jumping the queue … you’ll be surprised how far a gorgeous baby will get you! Stow your gear in a convenient, easy to reach, place.
- Try to reserve the seat in the front and book a bassinet for long flights. This will give you a place to tend to your baby as comfortable as possible.
- Pack more than one change of clothes for baby and off course a change of shirt for you. Spit ups and blow outs could reach far beyond your baby!
- If your infant is formula fed, bring extra feeds and bottles. You never know when or for how long delays will happen, imagine the stress of having a hungry baby and not having access to formula and water.
- Feed during take-off and landing. Offer a bottle, pacifier (or boob) to help ease the ear pressure.
- Keep your sense of humour. Babies are babies … they will get fussy, they will cry. Don’t let the stress of traveling rob you of making new memories on this adventure.
As ralph Emerson said, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” So, to all those brave new moms and dads out there: book those flights, pack those bags, strap your baby to your chest and enjoy the journey.
Happy travelling!
Source: thebuzzmagazines.com, babycentre.co.uk, cupofjo.com, scienceofmom.com, adrielbooker.com, havebabywilltravel.com, parenting.com, newkidcenter.com
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.