Baby Basics : Vacations and Trips

by

One of the greatest things about new babies is that
they are very portable, and many new parents like to take advantage of
maternity and paternity leaves to go a little farther afield. Start
preparing before you pack by making a list of all the things you need to
take, including the items here.

  • Your usual diaper bag,
    including a fold-up changing mat and a safe interior pocket for your
    purse and travel documents, so that you only need to carry one bag

  • A travel crib, with your baby’s usual bedding

  • Your baby’s usual blanket for sleep or swaddling, for comfort and reassurance if in an unfamiliar bed

  • A night light for nighttime feeding and diaper changes; a converter if the power supply and outlets at your destination are different

  • A baby carrier or sling, for an easy way to transport your baby when out

  • A light, foldable stroller that reclines, to ensure that your baby’s back is protected, and that he is comfortable; don’t forget the rain cover

  • A car seat for trains, buses, planes, cars, and taxis at your destination

  • Diapers—allow
    one for each hour you are in transit, plus a few extra for emergencies
    and delays; you can usually buy more for the rest of your stay at your
    destination, but pack enough for two days, to be on the safe side

  • Wipes, diaper cream, and any other baby toiletries you use


  • Tissues


  • 3–4 spare pacifiers

  • Clothing:
    one or two outfits per day; cotton layers are ideal for traveling—socks
    and sweaters or jackets may be useful, depending on the temperature at
    your destination


  • Washable or disposable bibs


  • Plastic bags for dirty diapers, clothes, and bibs

  • A small bottle of baby’s usual laundry detergent, for emergency washes


  • Sunscreen and a sunhat

  • 2–3 hooded towels, for bathing and fun in the sun (very young babies should not go into swimming pools or be in strong sun)

  • If you are bottle-feeding,
    bring along a full supply of your baby’s usual formula, since many
    babies react poorly to changes in their formula; don’t forget bottles, a
    bottle brush, nipples, and cleaning supplies

  • If you are breastfeeding you may wish to take your breast pump and some spare bottles

  • Pack an extra shirt for yourself in your hand luggage, in the event of breast or diaper leaks


  • Baby painkillers or remedies

  • One or two small toys and books to help you keep your baby entertained

  • A copy of your list so you can check that everything returns





Clip it on

You may find it useful to take along some elasticated clips to attach extra equipment to your bag or the stroller for days out.