Hi everyone! As a mom of two little girls, ages 4 and 8, I know how exciting – and sometimes, a little scary – it can be to travel with a baby. It is an adventure. With some good planning, you can have a great trip.
Flying with Baby? What You Need to Know About TSA
If you're flying, it's good to know the rules about baby gear. Here's the scoop on TSA guidelines:
Babywearing
You can totally wear your baby in a sling or carrier through the metal detector. It's a great way to keep them close and calm!
Strollers and Car Seats
These need to be checked by X-ray. If they're too big, the TSA officers will check them by hand. It is easy
Food and Drinks
Good news! Things like formula, breast milk, drinks for toddlers, and baby food are allowed. Even if they're more than 3.4 ounces, You don't have to squeeze them into those little quart-sized bags. They are special liquids that are okay to bring.
Just tell the TSA officer that you have them. It is easier to put formula and breast milk in see-through bottles. It helps things go faster!
Keeping Things Cool
Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs for keeping your baby's food and milk cold are allowed. Liquid-filled teethers are good too.
Medicines
You can bring baby food and medicine in your carry-on. They may also need to be checked.
TSA PreCheck
If you have TSA PreCheck, your kids can go with you through the faster lane. It makes things a lot easier!
Airline Fees
Most airlines are pretty cool about strollers and car seats. They usually don't count them as extra bags, so you don't have to pay more.
Screening for Kids
Kids 12 and under don't have to take off their shoes, light jackets, or hats. And don't worry, they won't be separated from you.
Dealing with Jet Lag
Jet lag can be tough on little ones. It's all about helping your baby get used to the new time zone. Here are some things that have worked for me:
Flight Times
If you can, try to book a flight that gets you there around your baby's bedtime. If not, that's okay, just work with what you have.
Sleep on the Flight
If you arrive in the evening, try to keep your little one awake a bit longer. If you arrive in the morning, let them sleep as much as they can on the plane. Use a blanket to make a cozy, dark space.
Bedtime Routine
Once you get to where you're staying, do the same bedtime routine you do at home. It helps them feel safe and know it's time to sleep.
My 4 years old always needs her favorite stuffed animal!
Eating Well
Make sure your baby eats enough during the day. Give them snacks, water, and milk every few hours. It keeps their energy up!
Sunshine!
It's tempting to stay inside, but try to go out and get some sunlight. Natural light helps reset everyone's body clocks, even yours!
Finding the Perfect Place to Stay
Where you stay can make a big difference. Here's what I look for:
Space and Stuff
I like rooms or suites that have separate sleeping areas. It is very helpful to have things like a small kitchen, microwave, and fridge. Hotels or apartments that are made for longer stays are great because they have more space and things you need.
Baby Gear
Ask if they have cribs, high chairs, and other baby stuff. Some places give them to you for free, others might charge a little. You can also check and bring your own.
Safety
Make sure the place is safe for babies. Things like covered outlets and safe balconies are important.
Noise
Try to get a room away from elevators and busy streets. It helps your baby sleep better.
Reviews
Read what other families say about the place. It gives you a good idea if it's good for babies.
Airbnb
If you're looking at Airbnb, choose the ones that say “kid-friendly”. And look for ones that have cribs.
Different options for baby-friendly accomodations
Here are some examples of accomodation to think about
- Regular hotel with baby stuff: It's familiar and usually has staff to help.
- Family hotel: Made for kids, so they have everything you need. Other guests will understand if your baby is noisy.
- Package holiday: Everything is booked together, so it's easy.
- Renting a place like Airbnb or VRBO: More space and a kitchen.
- Home exchange: A cheaper option, and you might get all the baby gear you need.
- Staying with family or friends: They might help with the baby, and it's the cheapest option.
Packing Smart for Your Trip
Packing can seem like a lot, but it doesn't have to be! Here's a list to help you remember everything:
- Diapering: Diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, changing pad, diaper disposal bags.
- Feeding: Bottles, formula or breast milk, bibs, burp cloths, baby food, snacks, sippy cup.
- Sleep: Sleep sack or swaddle, pacifiers, white noise machine, portable blackout curtains, travel crib.
- Clothing: Onesies, sleepers, outfits for different weather, socks, hats, swimsuit (if you need it).
- Bath and Hygiene: Baby wash, baby lotion, baby shampoo, washcloths, baby nail clippers, baby toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Health: Thermometer, baby pain reliever (ask your doctor about the right amount), saline drops, nasal aspirator, first-aid kit.
- Entertainment: Small, lightweight toys and books.
- Other: Baby carrier or sling, stroller, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent.
This is just my way to do it, I am sure you will find yours.
Remember, you can change this list depending on how old your baby is, how long you're going for, and where you're going. The most important thing is to enjoy your trip and make memories with your little one!
What are your favorite travel tips? Share them in the comments below!
