Travelling with a baby is not as nightmarish as some people might imagine, provided you have planned ahead and prepared a checklist of things to carry. Travelling and being away from home is a big change in your baby’s routine, to make your holiday successful you’ll have to anticipate the problems in advance.

Tips for travelling with a baby

After deciding on your holiday location, consult your doctor about the vaccinations that your baby will require before the holiday.

Journey is the most difficult part of a holiday for a baby. If you are flying to your destination book your tickets in advance and try to avoid full flights. Inquire whether the airplane has approved car seats for babies or else take your own and inform the airline ahead of time that you’ll be getting one.

Book meals for your child in advance and ask if he\she can be served before you are served.

Baby’s ears can plug up or hurt on take-off or landing due to change in cabin pressure. Feeding your baby at this time can help keep your baby’s ears clear.

If you are travelling by car carry a car seat along for your baby.

Take toys along so your baby keeps busy and doesn’t get bored on the way.

It’s definitely easier to travel if you are breast-feeding, because you don’t need to carry formula feed, bottles, sterilizers and other paraphernalia. However, if you feel awkward feeding your baby in public places like planes or trains, you can express milk before you leave.

There can be delays in your journey, therefore carry liberal quantity of snacks and drinks with you.

Carry a first-aid kit along containing infant pain relief, assorted size sticky plasters and antiseptic cream, mosquito repellent, nappy rash cream, sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and tweezers for splinters.

Baby sling or back carrier that occupies less space is extremely useful to carry the baby around.

Ensure that you have full health insurance when travelling with baby so you can get the medical attention you need during emergencies.