Summer is at our doorstep, which means if you’re like many families, you’re planning your children’s camps, playdates, and the family’s summer vacations.
Whether you’re headed to the Caribbean or keeping things domestic this summer, if you have a new baby, there are certain items you don’t want to leave home without.
Planning a vacation can be stressful when you’re childless, but when you have a newborn, whether your first child or your fifth, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed remembering everything.
Let’s take a look at the must-haves you’ll need no matter where you’re headed.
A White Noise Machine
Sleep is a time of significant restoration, no matter your age. Without enough sleep, we become irritable, and it can even affect our health and immune system.
Since babies can’t communicate with us the same way an older child can, ensuring they get enough sleep to stay in a great mood is essential while traveling.
After all, the baby is tagging along on all your excursions, too, they may not be walking, but it’s still exhausting!
Make sure your little one is catching plenty of z’s by bringing along a portable white noise machine.
Fed Is Best
Whether you formula feed or you’re nursing your child, you know that fed is best. Don’t leave any room for your child to be hungry.
Be sure to pack plenty of formula mix, bottles, and ways to sterilize them.
If you’re a nursing mother, one nursing bra won’t do – you want to bring one for each day you’ll be gone at a minimum.
You may get milk on the bras and don’t want to be left with sour intimates because you don’t have a way to launder them.
Breastfeeding in public has thankfully been normalized, but if you prefer a coverup while feeding your child, pack several of those.
Safe Sleeping Arrangements
While virtually all hotels and resorts offer cribs for families traveling with small children, you may not trust a used crib for your newborn as the mother of a newborn.
Make sure you bring along safe co-sleeping arrangements for your baby.
There are plenty of products on the market that keep your baby safe while napping or through the night while in the same bed as you.
A Sturdy Carrier
One of the most exciting things about traveling is exploring new cities and their culture.
Make sure you pack a way to carry your baby that leaves your hands free and your baby feeling safe and secure close to you.
You’ll also want to be able to enjoy the local food and drinks while you’re walking around and going on excursions, so making sure your baby is safely tucked against you is paramount for not just the baby but you too!
Whether you’re a fan of a baby wrap, a dad t-shirt, or a sturdier, more structured carrier, go with what works best for your family.
You’ll also want to consider what fits easily into your luggage.
Protective Items
Just like the sun can damage an adult’s skin, your baby’s skin can be affected and is more delicate than yours.
You want to make sure you have plenty of gear to shade your baby, especially if you’re traveling to a warm and sunny destination.
All-natural SPF for your baby is a must, and some form of tent, umbrella or something to allow them to sit on a beach and not be burnt by the sun’s rays.
If your baby can sit or even crawl or walk, it’s a good idea to have a protective hat for them to wear to shield their eyes and protect their delicate facial skin from potential sunburns.
Extras Of Everything
Even those who always travel as a minimalist know that if you’re traveling with a small baby, you’ll need extras for everything.
While plenty of hotels offer laundry on-site, you may not have time to worry about that while enjoying the vacation with your family.
Ensure you have extras of the necessities like diapers, formula, and clothing.
Sure, you could buy something in a pinch if you needed it, but luck favors the prepared!
While your child may not remember your summer getaway, it’s still incredibly fun to travel as a new parent – travel eases stress, reduces your risk of mental and physical health problems, and helps you reconnect with your partner. Happy Trails!