Traveling with your infant can be an exciting time, but also it is not unheard of for some parents to show up at the airport or cruise ship carrying a one-week-old and wondering for their lives. With infants, you have to remember about things like diaper danger (they leak), cabin fever (it can be too much for them!), and even if you plan on breastfeeding your infant, then remember to bring along the necessary medical supplies. Plan ahead, do seasonal research and prepare for every worst-case scenario – this blog post shares helpful information to get you started!
What to Know Before Traveling With Your Infant
1. Make sure your child is well rested before you leave. Infants require a lot of rest and should not be kept up for more than two hours at a time. Try to schedule a nap for your infant before you leave.
2. Pack enough diapers and wipes. If your infant is going to be away from home for an extended period of time, make sure they have plenty of diapers and wipes. You may also want to bring along a pack n’ play or bassinet if possible.
3. Bring along toys that can keep your infant’s attention span engaged. It is important for them to have something fun to do while you are away so they don’t get bored. Some favorite toys to bring along include puzzles, rattles, blocks, and stuffed animals.
4. Make sure your infant is safe and comfortable while you are away from home. Keep them safe by keeping them far from dangerous environments such as water sources and cliffsides. Also make sure they are wearing proper clothing and shoes when visiting crowded places or going on long walks outside.
What Equipment to Bring and How Much?
When traveling with an infant, there are a few things you’ll need to bring along. In addition to your regular diaper bag and clothes, you’ll need to pack a crib, portable high chair, car seat, and other necessary baby gear. And surprisingly enough, all of this can fit into a small backpack or messenger bag. Here are the things you’ll want to consider when packing for your infant:
1. Crib: A crib should be sturdy and able to secure to the wall or floor securely. Make sure it has safety gates that can be closed if your infant is unsettled.
2. Portable High Chair: This is a crucial piece of baby gear that will allow your infant to sit upright while eating and playing. Look for one that attaches easily to your stroller or car seat and has good padding for babies’ backsides.
3. Car Seat: A car seat should be able to hold your infant securely in their own seat and should meet the specific legal requirements for your destination. Infants aged between 6 and 12 months can ride in a rear-facing car seat up to 40 pounds, while those aged from 1 year old or older can ride in a forward-facing car seat up to 50 pounds.
Risks of Traveling With an Infant
If you are considering traveling with an infant, it is important to be aware of the risks. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Travelling with an infant can be a fun and exciting experience, but it also poses a number of risks. Be sure to talk to your pediatrician about any potential risks before traveling.
2. Infants are vulnerable to sickness and infection, so take precautions against catching infections while you are traveling. For example, wash your hands frequently and make sure to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
3. Make sure that your infant is properly fitted for a travel crib or bassinet, as these devices can be dangerous if not used properly. Infants can suffocate if not placed in a secure location and restrained from moving around by straps or bars.
4. If you plan on traveling with your infant while you are breastfeeding, be aware that certain countries may not allow nursing in public. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting before leaving to ensure that breastfeeding will be allowed.
Best Practices for A Safe & Successful Trip
Following these tips will help keep both you and your infant safe while on your travels.
1. Plan Ahead: Before departure, make sure to gather all the information you need about the destination and the travel arrangements you’ve made. This includes prenatal vitamins, medication guides, and airline tickets. Remember to also bring a copy of your child’s passport and visa if required by the destination.
2. Pack Safely: When packing for your trip, be sure to pack items that can double as instructional tools. This includes a travel crib, car seat, and toddler travel bed. In addition, make sure to include supplies such as water bottles, snacks, blankets, and clothes appropriate for the climate and locale you are visiting. And don’t forget a first-aid kit for yourself and your child!
3. Arrive Prepared: It is especially important to arrive well-prepared when traveling with an infant. Make sure to have all of the relevant documents handy (passport, visa if applicable), know in advance the location of long-term foreign medical care facilities, and plan mountain climbs or kayaking adventures into your itinerary. You should also be prepared for other unexpected problems that may arise, such as an electrical storm, severe winter weather, or an emergency border closure.
