Bon Voyage! Travel Tips for New Parents

The thought of traveling with a little one can be daunting for new parents. Packing for a baby to just go out for the day can cause crazy anxiety. Plus, they use A LOT of stuff that you then need to carry with you everywhere! But fear not, adventurous spirits! With a little planning and these handy tips, you can embark on a memorable journey with your entire crew.

Choosing Your Destination:

Baby-Friendly First Steps: 

Opt for destinations with amenities catering to families. Look for resorts or hotels that can provide a cot / changing area, suitable play areas, and babysitting services. Consider destinations with familiar cuisines if your baby is starting solids or has a sensitive tummy. If you have an allergy baby, call ahead to ask what arrangements can be made to cater for a dairy / gluten free diet for you (if breastfeeding) or your little one. 

Proximity Matters: 

For your first family trip, consider shorter distances or familiar locations. This minimises travel time and potential disruptions to your baby. Before trying your hand at a 7-hour coastal drive or a long overseas flight, start small with a short trip to gauge how you and baby cope in the car and with the change in space and routine. 

Packing Like a Pro:

Essentials for Every Journey: 

Pack enough nappies, wipes, and formula (or breastmilk supplies) to last the entire trip, plus a little extra for unexpected delays or illnesses. Bring plenty change of clothes for both you and your baby for any spills or messes. Pack familiar comfort items like a favourite stuffed animal or blanket, as well as your creature comforts to keep up your home routine, whether it is your night light or white noise machine.

Gear Up for Adventure: 

Don’t forget essentials like a pram and a portable changing mat. Pack a first-aid kit with basic supplies like baby pain relievers, a thermometer, antihistamine and saline nasal spray. A baby carrier is essential so you and your little family can still adventure around, whether it is a hike or a lazy lunch overlooking the sea. You are on holiday so deserve some hands free time to have that much needed glass of wine!

Keeping Your Little One Comfortable:

Planning for Take-off: 

Book a bulkhead seat with extra legroom if possible. This provides more space for your baby and allows for easier diaper changes. Bring plenty of distractions for the flight – chew toys, crinkly books, and age-appropriate snacks. LOTS of snacks! Try to book a flight that coincides with nap time, so you can feed at take-off / landing to prevent sore ears, and hopefully have a sleeping baby for the remainder of the flight.

Hitting the Road: 

Plan your road trip around your baby’s feeding and sleep schedule. Factor in frequent stops for nappy changes, feedings, and stretching breaks. It is often easier to drive very early morning when they tend to nap more, making the trip easier on everyone!

Embrace the Adventure:

Be Flexible: 

Remember, things might not always go according to plan. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on your baby’s needs. Pack your patience and a sense of humour – unexpected meltdowns are a possibility!

Focus on Quality Time: 

While sightseeing is fun, prioritise quality time with your family. Pack light activities like playing at the park, picnics and hikes, exploring local markets, or simply relaxing by the pool.

While some say that going on holiday with babies and toddlers is just parenting and managing the chaos at a different location, try to just embrace the stage of life you are in. Calm, lazy, stress-free holidays away from home do us all a world of good, your baby included!

Websites like https://www.lekkeslaap.co.za/ and https://upandgo.co.za/ offer fantastic resources for finding family-friendly destinations and travel inspiration. So, pack your bags, grab your little one, and get ready to explore the world together!