Baby Friendly Vacation - How, When and Where....

The world is a big place and there is no reason for all of you to not be able to enjoy it. New experiences and great for babies and it helps them learn and be more flexible as they get older. Travel is also a good break from the normal for parents and gives the whole family a chance to bond and share new experiences.

The downside: it does require some advance planning so let us guide you with these travel tips for the best baby friendly vacation:

1. Location, Location, Location

Choose your baby friendly vacation location well. It can be possible to travel with your baby just about anywhere but every parent will be more secure knowing what is available at the location and to be prepared. Travel to third world countries should be left only for the most travel hardy. Choose locations that are used to seeing and accommodating young ones and you will have it made.

A cruise, beach vacations, family resorts, family camps and such are recommended. Theme parks should be left until your child is about 4 or 5. Also avoid high tourist areas; demanding trips, long stays with friends and hotels and inns with limited facilities. Baby and toddler friendly resorts and hotels that cater to families are a big plus. Confirm when you book that they will have a crib, highchairs etc to make your life on the road easier.

3. Bring along anything you (or your baby) can’t live without

That favourite blanket won’t do Jr. much good left behind on the chair back home. Don’t assume you will be able to find a replacement for things on the road. If your child has reactions to different diapers for example, make sure you bring plenty of the ones you use along.

Words of caution though, babies do require a lot of "stuff" and even with the essentials, you may need a pack mule for your luggage. We recommend you let Babies Travel Lite do the packing and lugging for you. This online service will ship anything his little heart desires (or sensitive tush needs) to destinations nationwide.

4. Work in some down time for you and the baby

Babies can become over-stimulated and fussy during travel. Try to plan longer flights and car trips during times they might be naturally sleeping to allow them that much needed rest. Try to rest when the baby is resting so that you also do not become overtired.

5. Be flexible

You are not at home, your child is not at home and some routines will need to be adjusted. It helps to keep some sense of continuity but you will need to relax and go with the flow more often than not. Plan for the unexpected and give yourself plenty of time. Arrive at the airport early, schedule in longer time for driving and don’t leave yourself rushed or stressed.

6. Check to see if a passport or other documents are required

Most countries now require that all children, even babies require passports when travelling outside of the country. Depending on the country you are traveling to, additional documents may be required.

Need a Passport, Travel Visa or Birth Certificate?Click Here

7. Take the first few days to help your baby adjust.

Bring along a favourite blanket or toy. Set a routine, eat familiar food and help them feel “at home”. Try not to overdo it the especially the first few days to give them a time to settle in and relax with the newness of everything. Babies take their cues from their parents so if you are relaxed, they will be too.

8. Travel in Off Peak Times

If you are able, especially if there are no older children to pull out of school, travel during off peak times. The busy season for travel is always when kids are out of school – Christmas break, Spring Break, Summer holidays etc. You will find the prices usually lower for a baby friendly vacation during off peak periods and there are less crowds to contend with so it is easier for you and baby to get around.

8. Enjoy

It’s a vacation remember! Worry less and enjoy more, your baby will too.

Baby and Toddler Friendly Resorts and Hotels
See our recommended resorts and hotels that cater to babies and toddlers with kid clubs and some even have personal nannies!

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Travel and Breastfeeding
Information on travel and breastfeeding from the La Leche League

JetSetBabies
JetSetBabies ships everything from diapers to food and formula and many other baby and toddler consumables to your travel destination. Relax - we'll have it waiting for you when you get there!