Newborns need a surprising amount of stuff! But who doesn’t love the idea of showing their child the world? Seeing your long-distance grandparents is magical. But these little travelers come with a lot of baggage, and that can be overwhelming, as can needing something desperately and not having it.
Here’s our checklist of items to make trips with your baby less stressful and more fun.
1. Diapers
You must carry more than enough diapers. Disposable diapers are easier to use when traveling. If your baby is younger than 3 months old, carry a diaper for every hour of the journey, else you may carry a diaper for every two hours of the journey plus a few extra.
2. Baby First Aid Kit
By being exposed to new places, germs could cause your baby to get sick. Be sure to pack a first aid kit for your baby and include your pediatrician’s phone number, as well as the after-hours nurse line, in case your baby gets sick while you’re away from home. Your first aid kit should include things like nail clippers (if you aren’t flying), baby Tylenol, nasal aspirator, diaper cream, baby thermometer, and gas drops in case of an upset tummy.
3. Travel crib
Having his/her crib can help the baby sleep so much better and makes travel less stressful. Most of the time hotels have cribs available, but this is never guaranteed and the quality can be questionable especially if you are traveling internationally. If you are going in a car you can easily take a pack-n-play, but for plane travel, the size of these tends not to be practical and a dedicated travel crib works better.
4. Car Seat
One of the most important things to take on your trip with the baby is a good car seat. Airplane seat belts are designed to restrain passengers, taxis rarely offer car seats, and rental car companies are notorious for providing the wrong type of car seat. Therefore, your best option is to bring a car seat that you trust with your child’s life.
5. Stroller
One of the most essential items for your baby’s first trip is a stroller. It should be light, portable, easy to use, and folds away very quickly while providing sufficient support for a child over a few months old. You would be able to transport your baby around the airport easily and quickly, with the minimum of effort.