Traveling with a baby can sometimes mean that you are so consumed with ensuring that you have everything you need to care for the baby on the trip that you forget things you need for yourself. The best thing to do is to prepare a checklist of what you need and then check off each item as you pack it.
A sample checklist should include the following items:
- Diapers/ pampers
- Blankets
- Sleepers
- Baby wipes
- Baby lotion and soap
- Extra pacifiers
- Bottle
- Formula, food, water, and/or juice
- Resealable plastic bags
- Extra clothes – at least one or two outfits per day
- Nightlight
- Car seat
- Portable crib
- Collapsible stroller
- Sun hat and sunscreen Toys
- Plastic for use in changing the baby
- Any necessary medicines
- Extra shirt for yourself
- Burping pad
- Washable bibs
- Feeding spoons
- Kettle, if the hotel room does not have kitchen facilities
The packing for a trip involving a baby should start weeks in advance to ensure that no detail is overlooked. As you pack each item or article, check to make sure you have added extra in case of accidents.
Simply go through a sample day at home and make a list of everything the baby needs when not traveling. Add extra to the list. Bring a camera and plenty of film or if you use a digital ensure that the memory card can store lots of pictures.
Car Safety Tips
The single biggest threat to your baby’s life as documented every year by every relevant US government agency is the threat when they are traveling in the car with you, friends, or family.
Here are a few tips to make sure your baby will always be safe when traveling in a car.
Car Seats
When buying a car seat, make sure you look for;
A label that clearly states that it meets or exceeds the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
That the car seat is set up exactly and will suit a child of your weight and height
Really be that the seat you choose fits your child perfectly – Infants one year or younger and up to 20 pounds must be placed in a rear-facing seat, toddlers (older than 1 year and between 20 and 40 pounds) may use a forward-facing seat, and children who are between 40 and 80 pounds need to be placed in a booster seat.
Check recent car seat recalls before making a purchase
Be aware of the type of seat belts your car has; all car seats are not compatible with all seat belts
Consider choosing a seat that is upholstered in fabric – it may be more comfortable for your child.
