Surviving a Destination Event with a Baby or Toddler: Tips, Tricks, and Essentials

Attending a destination wedding or birthday party with a baby or toddler can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can still have a jol and make it an enjoyable experience for both you and your little one. Whether or not the little ones are included in the event, having your baby in tow doesn’t have to mean missing out. Here are practical tips for managing emotions, babysitting, and packing efficiently.

Planning Ahead

Research the Venue and Location: 

Before the event, call ahead and gather as much information as you can on the venue. Does it have baby-friendly facilities like highchairs, changing stations, or quiet areas for naps? If you’re staying at a hotel, check if they offer camp-cots or baby-proofed rooms. Can your room be as close as possible to the event?

Childcare: 

Some destination weddings and events offer group babysitting or childcare services. If this is the case, it might be worth taking advantage.

Consider Bringing Help: 

If the event is longer than a day or two, you might want to bring a trusted babysitter or family member who can watch the baby during key moments of the event. Alternatively, arrange with other parents attending to take turns babysitting.

Talk to the Hosts: 

If it’s a close friend or family member hosting the event, don’t hesitate to ask about the full schedule of the day / weekend. Knowing when key moments like speeches or the first dance will take place allows you to plan baby’s mealtime or naptime around these activities, without having to miss out.

Packing can Make or Break your Experience:

Travel Cot: 

Even if your destination provides one, your baby will sleep better in something familiar.

Feeding Essentials: 

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or have a toddler eating solids, pack snacks, bottles, sippy cups, dummies, sterilising equipment, bibs, and baby-safe utensils. And always pack EXTRAS!

Nappies and Wipes: 

More than you think you’ll need, just in case.

Pram or Carrier: 

A carrier is convenient for keeping your hands free during ceremonies, while a pram can serve as a mobile sleeping spot, especially if you are not ready for leaving your little one with a sitter.

Entertainment: 

Bring a few quiet toys or books to keep your baby occupied during longer speeches or while waiting for meals.

Baby’s Comfort Items: 

Don’t forget their favourite blankets, or stuffed toys for soothing moments.

Managing Emotions: 

Moms and Dads: 

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when travelling with a baby, but it’s important to stay flexible. Know that things might not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! Accept help from family and friends, take a deep breath when things get tough, and remember to enjoy the special occasion.

Little Ones: 

Babies are highly sensitive to changes in routine and environment, so it’s natural for them to get fussy. Try to stick to their usual nap and feeding schedule as much as possible. Offer familiar items for comfort and take breaks in quiet spaces if things become too stimulating.

How to Balance Participation and Parenting

Take Turns: 

If you’re attending the event with a partner, alternate responsibilities so one of you can dance, socialise, or take photos while the other keeps an eye on the baby.

Use Down Time Wisely: 

During breaks in the festivities (such as cocktail hours or long speeches), seize the opportunity to relax with your baby or give them some playtime in a quieter area.

Bringing a little one to a destination wedding or event might take some extra planning, but with the right preparations, you can still have fun and feel like you are a part of the special occasion. The key is to try to stay calm. Relax and know that your baby being fussy is normal and take it one hour at a time. No is a complete sentence, so if you need to decline a part of the event so you can still enjoy some of it later, that is okay. Be kind to yourself, this is a new and exciting part of the parenting roller-coaster!