Travel Essentials with a Baby
In Tokyo with my 1 month old son.
We took our son on his first trip when he was only a couple of weeks old. Traveling with an infant can be challenging, but I've gathered some essential tips to help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable for your family.
Heavy-duty Diaper Bag
First and foremost, investing in a quality diaper bag is a game changer. We chose one with a dedicated diaper-changing compartment, which proved invaluable during our travels—whether at the airport, on the plane, or when we were out and about. Many public restrooms lack family-style bathrooms or designated changing areas, so having this feature at your fingertips is incredibly convenient, especially when creating a makeshift diaper-changing space. Also, it's important to bring extra clothes—lots of them—especially when flying, as well as extra diapers. My son had at least two accidents during our flights, so having extra clothes on hand was very helpful.
Breastfeeding Drape
We found that a breastfeeding drape can be incredibly useful. It was a lifesaver during flights and when we were out in public. If you're traveling to a warm destination, make sure to select one that is suitable for hot weather. I recommend a drape that has a sheer covering for airflow and a back tie to keep it secure, especially if you have an active baby. This made breastfeeding much easier and more comfortable for me.
Formula Tablets
We used formula tablets when transitioning my son off of breast milk, and it was incredibly convenient. The tablets are non-liquid and have a long shelf life, making them easy to prepare on the go. This was especially helpful during travel, whether flying or taking the train. We prepared bottles for him during takeoff and landing, so if he was awake and not sleeping, he had something to suck on to help prevent his ears from popping.
Ditch the Stroller
I recommend skipping the stroller and opting for a baby carrier instead. A carrier is especially great for infants, as it allows you to easily transport your baby while walking. Although they can be a bit warm, choosing an open-style carrier makes it easy to take your child in and out as needed, avoiding the complications that come with using a stroller. If you decide to use a stroller, select a lightweight model. This will make it easier to maneuver through tight streets and navigate steps.
Sticker Repellent
We used sticker mosquito repellent, which were little stickers designed for children. They worked great for my son. While my husband and I both got bitten, the stickers protected him quite well, especially in Indonesia, where it's typically hot and humid—ideal conditions for mosquitoes. The stickers are a fantastic alternative for kids because they don't require any spraying, so there's no risk of them inhaling anything. We just had to be careful to place the stickers in areas where our child couldn't reach them and put them in his mouth.
Stay Cool
If you're going somewhere hot, sunscreen is definitely helpful. I recommend using sunscreen along with a skin cooler roll-on stick. It works wonders for keeping your child calm during extreme heat. Applying the cooling stick helps regulate their body temperature better since they are still developing.
Fly with Space
If you are going overseas, look at your airline's accommodation for families flying with infants. For example, we flew to Indonesia and Thailand with Singapore Airlines, which is excellent for accommodating passengers with infants or children by ensuring they are seated in spacious seats at no extra charge. So, make sure that if you are flying that you are okay with the amount of space that you have for you and your child.
Check the Regs
Another tip I recommend is to make sure that you comply with the travel regulations and look over it before you travel. One thing that I did was I looked at how much milk you could store in containers and if there were any icepack restrictions. So be sure to check the airlines regulations before you travel.
I hope these tips enhance your travel experience with your little ones!
