The Must-Have Tools That Make Vacationing With Baby Much Easier
Travelling with your baby naturally makes things a little tougher than they might be otherwise. If you don’t prepare properly, you can’t end up spending a lot more of your trip focused on them than you necessarily should. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be that tough. Here, we’re taking a closer look at a few of the tools that can make things much easier, from getting around to keeping them entertained and relaxed, wherever you may be going.
A Lightweight Travel Stroller
Being able to get around with ease without having to worry about how much storage space you might need can be very helpful indeed. There is a wide range of lightweight travel strollers you can choose from, so be sure to look for one that’s easy to fold, can fit into the overhead compartments of an airplane, and has good suspension to make sure that any rough terrain isn’t too bumpy for your baby. You may want to look for those with reclining seats and sun canopies that can make it a lot easier for your child to get some shuteye while you’re out walking, as well. Many also have storage baskets which can hold essentials like diapers, snacks, and toys, so you don’t constantly have to weigh your shoulders down with bags, too.
A Baby Carrier Or Sling
Having your baby on wheels isn’t always going to be the most practical way to get around, of course. When strollers are not the most practical option, be it due to hills, excessively uneven terrain, or packed crowds, then choosing the right baby carrier or sling might do you a world of good. These secure your baby to your person while also keeping your hands free so that you can navigate your destination with ease. Ergonomics should be the main feature of choice, as proper hip and back support can be vital for making sure that you don’t start to feel the strain too easily, especially on those longer walks.
A Portable Pack And Play
When you’re not able to pack a full crib or bassinet, having a portable option can be a lifesaver. A good pack and play makes sure that your little one always has a clean, safe place to sleep or play, whether you’re in a hotel room or you have to wait overnight for your flight at the airport. These are designed to be compact and quick to assemble, but they have plenty of features to choose from, as well. For instance, many come with sheets to help keep the mattress clean, mattress toppers to offer a little extra softness, and wheels to make them even easier to move around when they’re not in use.
A Portable Sound Machine
Any kind of inconsistency can be a major source of sleep disruption for your baby, and new environments can bring with them a few difficult nights. However, you can fight this with the help of a portable sound machine. These white noise-producing machines are able to drown out any unfamiliar noises that might keep the baby up, whether it’s the sound of a door closing down the hall of your hotel, noises from the street outside, or otherwise. If you are picking up a sound machine, you might want to use it for a few nights at home before you bring it with you. That way, your baby can get used to the sound, associating it with sleep, so that it doesn’t have to adapt to it while you’re out on vacation.
Baby Earplugs
No parent likes the thought of their baby being in discomfort when they’re taking off or landing in an airplane. However, there are specialised baby earplugs that you can pick up, or ear protection brands, that can reduce the pain and protect your baby’s hearing, while also reducing the stress caused by the loud cabin noise. Make sure that you choose those made from soft, hypoallergenic materials, and combine them with a pacifier or feed them during takeoff and landing to help them equalise the pressure in their ears naturally. Of course, good earplugs help for a lot more than just airplanes, as they can help you navigate noisy environments like bustling airports and city centres without worrying too much about your child.
Sterilised Bottles (And Water)
It’s important to bring new, clean feeding gear with you. You can either pack pre-sterilised bottles or, even better, a bottle sterilising kit to make sure that you’re able to keep your baby’s feed free from any extra germs. If you feed your baby with formula, then be aware that you may not always have access to sterilised water, whether it’s at the airport, on the plane, or even at your hotel, depending on where you go. To that end, having sterilised water or sealed bottled water specifically for mixing formula can make sure that you keep feeding safely and hygienically at all times. Any feeding items should be kept in a separate insulated bag to maintain their temperature and hygiene as you travel, too.
Some Sensory Videos On Your Device
While you should do what you can to keep your baby entertained while you’re on long flights, car rides, or waiting out a delay at the airport, sometimes you need a little assistance. As such, having a few great sensory baby videos on your phone, tablet, or laptop can take some of the pressure off your shoulders. Don’t expect to be able to rely on YouTube or any other streaming websites, either, as you never know when you will have reliable access to the internet. Instead, download videos in advance so that you’re never left stranded without any options. A good tablet folder can free your hands while you’re at it, too.
There are, of course, other tools that can be as helpful as those mentioned above, but many of them may depend on the type of vacation you’re planning. If you’re looking forward to your next trip, make sure that your baby’s presence is a joy, not a bother, with the must-haves mentioned above.