We recently met my newest nephew on a little family trip about midway between us in Leesburg VA and them on Long Island. Other people were probably there too but I was so focused on this cutie patootie. Look at these cheeks!
Anyway. I had completely forgotten how intimidating it can be learning how to travel with a baby for the first time!
As a first-time parent, the thought of taking your precious newborn on their first trip can seem incredibly daunting. It’s like traveling to the moon but with priceless and unpredictable cargo. Learning how to travel with a baby requires more preparation, planning, and patience compared to the carefree days of pre-baby getaways. But with some thoughtful planning and these pro tips for smooth travels with babe in tow, your first family vacation can be memorable and enjoyable.
Table of Contents
Packing and Essentials
Babies might be small, but they require an impressive amount of stuff. Start with the essentials:
- Diapers (lots of them)
- Wipes
- Extra clothes (for both baby and you!)
- Bottles, formula, or breastfeeding supplies
- Favorite toys or comfort items
- Portable changing pad
- First-aid kit with baby essentials like infant Tylenol
Resist the urge to overpack “just in case”. Traveling with a baby requires a lot of supplies, so simplicity and multipurpose items are key.
How To Fly With a Baby
Air travel with a baby can feel intimidating, but with a little preparation, it’s really fine. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Book Smart
Opt for flights that align with your baby’s nap schedule. Early morning flights can also be a good choice since babies are often happiest in the morning. When booking, consider requesting a bassinet seat if available—some airlines offer these for long-haul flights.
2. Pack Strategically
Your carry-on should be a treasure trove of baby essentials. Pack:
- Diapers and wipes (enough for the flight and then some)
- Snacks or formula
- A change of clothes for baby and you
- A lightweight blanket
- Pacifiers or teething toys
3. Takeoff and Landing Tricks
Babies’ ears are sensitive to pressure changes, so help them equalize during takeoff and landing. Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or offering a pacifier can do the trick.
4. Go with the Flow
Expect the unexpected! Babies cry, and that’s okay. Deep breaths. I’ve found most fellow passengers are very understanding and sometimes, even helpful. We all had to learn how to travel with a baby by plane at some point!
How To Road Trip With a Baby
If your travel plans involve a car like ours usually did, these tips will help keep everyone happy and safe:
1. Prioritize Car Seat Safety
Make sure your car seat is installed correctly. If you’re unsure, many fire stations or hospitals offer free car seat checks.
2. Plan Regular Stops
Babies can only handle so much car time. Plan stops every 2-3 hours to feed, change, and let your baby stretch (and you too!)
3. Keep Essentials Within Reach
Pack a small bag with must-haves like:
- Diapers and wipes
- Snacks or bottles
- A variety of favorite toys
4. Entertain Your Little Passenger
Babies love stimulation. A car seat mirror, soft toys, or baby-friendly playlists can work wonders to keep them entertained.
Sleeping and Feeding on the Go
I know one of my biggest concerns for traveling was (still is, lol) making sure my baby eats and sleeps well. Here are my tips:
1. Help Baby Sleep Anywhere
Bring familiar items like your baby’s favorite blanket or sound machine to recreate their usual sleep environment. If they’ll be in a bassinet while traveling, practice at home first.
2. Master Feeding on the Move
For bottle-feeding, consider portable bottle warmers and pre-measured formula dispensers to simplify the process. If you’re breastfeeding, you’ve probably already mastered this!
Adjusting to a New Time Zone
To help baby adjust to a new time zone, start shifting their schedule in the days leading up to travel. If traveling east, gradually push bedtime 15 minutes earlier every few nights. For westward travel, shift bedtime 15 minutes later. Upon arrival, get lots of bright daylight during the day. Blackout curtains at night help signal bedtime. Adjusting may take a few days but stick with your little one’s routine the best you can. Remember this adjustment can be tough on the best of us.
Other Family Travel Tips
– Scout accessibility and baby facilities like playgrounds, changing areas, nursing rooms.
– Prioritize downtime in accommodations, limiting long daytime excursions until you’ve settled in.
– Pack familiar items like loveys to provide comfort.
– Keep the same bedtime routine as home.
– Expect meltdowns and challenges with disrupted routine. For you, the baby, and your partner — ha! Deep breaths.
– Capture lots of photos and enjoy those baby firsts on the trip!
– Click here for the best in baby travel gear.
What tips would you add for someone figuring out how to travel with a baby for the first time? Let me know in the comments!
Traveling with a baby is an adventure, and like all great adventures, it comes with its own set of surprises. With thoughtful prep and flexibility, your baby’s first trip can be an amazing experience.
Blaire Ring from Second Ave Photography is an award-winning photographer in Northern Virginia. Her work has been featured in magazines and online blogs worldwide. She specializes in newborn, family, and maternity photography with a fun and laid-back vibe.
