The holiday season is here! And indeed it is the ‘most wonderful time of the year,’ as many parents prepare for their holiday vacation to relax and detox, that end of year burnout while enjoying some quality time with family and friends.
However, traveling during the holiday season with a baby no matter how old they are, is not always easy, especially as a first time parent. Although they may sleep for a long period of time which is amazing.
That said, it’s surprising how much gear you will need to keep the baby comfortable and happy, which can be daunting on the parent as many questions may be running through your head such as:
Have I packed everything I need? What if I haven’t, is there somewhere to stock up? What if the baby doesn’t like the trip? These and other questions fill your mind to such an extent that you even consider staying home as a better option.
However, according to Mario Correia, brand manager for baby brands Milton and Karvol, tells parents not to worry when traveling with a baby and advises parents to pack days in advance.
“Don’t worry mom and dad, you’ve got this. A way to avoid the packing jitters, is to make a list a few days before so that you can see what you use on a daily basis and add to the list, she said.
Mario Correia adds that when travelling with a baby, you will need to pack two bags – one for the trip and one for while you are away, as there will be an overlap of some items, but only pack enough for while you are travelling in a smaller bag to aid in easy access.
Although travelling with kids can sometimes bring along with stress due to the many challenges one may face. The experience does not have to be daunting if you follow these simple guidelines provided by Mario Correia.
While travelling, you will need the following:
- If you are flying, don’t forget your baby’s passport, unabridged birth certificate, and if you need it, a consent letter from their other parent. Also, keep these documents within easy reach so that you don’t get flustered while looking for everything.
- Whether you are travelling by air or on the road, be sure to pack an easy-to-get-to baby bag.
Items in this bag should be everything you need for the trip such as:
- Nappies, bum cream,
- Plastic bags for the soiled nappies,
- Toys,
- Blankets (more than one in case something messes on one),
- Bottles and formula (enough for the trip)
- Food (enough for the trip)
- If travelling by car, be sure to have your car seat installed.
It is super important to always pack more items than you need just in case there is an unforeseen delay at the airport, or a traffic jam.
More items you may need while on holiday include:
- Find out if you need to bring along a camp cot or if the place you are staying provides one. You need to make the baby feel as comfortable as possible while away.
- Babies can get congested when moving from one place to another, especially if they are susceptible to allergies. Karvol capsules help to clear babies’ nose when they are feeling blocked up. A simple drop onto a blanket will help them breathe easier.
- Check the weather before going to ensure that you have packed the right clothes for the weather. Being too hot or too cold will leave the baby feeling uncomfortable and miserable.
- Don’t forget to sterilise your baby’s bottles and plastic toys while away. Your Milton fluid or tablets need to be packed along with everything else. You don’t want the baby to get sick. If you are unsure about the drinking water where you are, Milton can also be used to sterilise water to make it safe for drinking.
- Baby’s skin is very sensitive, and baby sunscreen needs to be packed and applied at all times. Everysun has a sunscreen range developed specifically for babies to protect even the most sensitive skin. When out in the sun, please ensure that the baby is covered up and placed in the shade or under an umbrella. A hat should also always be worn.
- If you have a lightweight pram, use it instead of the bigger pram to save packing space.
- If baby is going to be sleeping in a separate room, be sure to pack your monitor.
Also see: Tips for travelling with children during the holiday seasons
