Do you love travel and adventure? If you’re planning family travel with your little one, it can be daunting to think about everything you’ll need to bring with you – not only all of the baby supplies but also all of the things that they might need while traveling, such as food and clothes. Here are five travel tips to help make traveling with your baby easier and more comfortable for everyone. You’ll be cruising in no time!
1) Arrive Early at the Airport
This is an important one. Though you may have done it in the past, arriving early to the airport when traveling with your baby will help alleviate some of that stress and make your experience go much more smoothly on your family holiday. Doing so will ensure that you're able to check in, get through security, and find your gate all before your toddler realises there's a new toy at the end of the terminal or starts getting restless from sitting down too long. Just as we recommend with toddlers, keep them busy while waiting by having toys and snacks handy. My top tip would be to invest in a baby carrier, this was a much easier way to navigate security at the airport as they allowed me to keep "H" strapped to my chest and helped to free up my hands for luggage, etc. I would recommend a 4-in-1 carrier as they are great from newborn up to toddler age.
2) Pack Snacks
Pack snacks, wipes, and toys. Toddlers are always hungry and need to stay occupied when traveling. Snacks will keep them happy and wipes will keep them clean. Pack some of their favorite toys in the bag to make the trip more fun for both of you! Plan ahead because toddlers get very cranky when they're hungry, tired, or bored. As soon as your toddler starts whining, ask if they want a snack, diaper change, or toy. Stay calm and don't get frustrated. Your toddler is testing you but most likely just needs to be soothed by something familiar like food or a favorite toy or book. "H" always loved a finger puppet book to keep her engaged. Always remember that it's not personal; your child doesn't know how else to communicate with you yet!
3) Find Quiet Areas in Airports
Airports can be challenging when you have a baby. There is usually lots of noise, limited seating, and people everywhere. But there are some things you can do to make it more enjoyable, like visiting the play area or grabbing something to eat in the food court. Depending on your child's age, we have found that downloading "H's" favourite Peppa Pig to our tablet is always a good lifeline! Amazon does a great tablet for kids that comes with a "kid-proof case" and they will replace free of charge if it is damaged in the first 2 years!
4) Consider Going at Off-Peak Times
Sometimes the best time to travel is when there is less demand, which means you could get better prices on flights and hotels, or less traffic and crowds. This may not be possible every time for family travel, but if you are able to plan ahead, it can be very beneficial. Keep in mind that babies need sleep too! Try to keep your baby's sleep schedule as close as possible while traveling by waking them up or putting them down to bed at the same times they would typically do so at home. Milk bottles on take-off are great for helping to stop those little ears from popping.
5) Take Lots of Pictures
Saving pictures is the best way to remember all of the great moments of your family holiday. You'll have them to look back on in years to come when you're old and grey! It also helps if you want to post about your experiences on social media like Instagram or Facebook, which can be a fun thing for friends and family who are unable to travel with you. I have found our GoPro a great investment to capture those "candid" moments of the family. I like to keep separate folders on my phone of different holiday destinations we have been to, it's a great and easy way to look back at specific memories.
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