How To Take A Long Trip With A Baby

Traveling with a baby is stressful for parents. Here are the top tips for making your trip a success!

Thinking about taking a long trip with a baby is something that at first glance generates fear and anxiety in parents. And it’s not for nothing: whether by car or plane, traveling with a baby is not easy. But it’s not impossible either!

Here are the top tips for making your family trip with your baby a real success. Take a deep breath, put your nervousness aside and discover our advice!

Planning a long trip with a baby

In order for your adventure with your child to be as enjoyable as possible, it is necessary that you are prepared. The key is in the preparation and planning. Don’t leave anything to chance, at least within the limits of what you can control (we know that with children there are things that we cannot have under control).

When planning your trip, there are two main factors to consider: the age of the baby and the mode of transportation. Strangely enough, these are the two pillars that will guide the planning.

Long trip with a baby by plane!

Flying with a baby is not impossible or crazy. There are just a few things you need to consider.

1. Where will the baby sleep?

Depending on the age of the child, you will be able to request a cot or not. If you are traveling with your newborn or a baby under 8 months old, remember that on transatlantic flights you can request a cot.

Remember to do this in advance, as they won’t give it to you if you ask for it on the plane. Check the airline’s website for the maximum age and weight to request a cot.

If you are not entitled to a cot, he will have to sleep with you. Unless you are prepared to pay more (50-100% of the ticket price) to travel in your own seat. If you choose to carry it in your arms, we recommend that you wear an ergonomic pillow for your neck. This will allow you to rest a bit.

2. Baby’s meals

Breastfed babies are the easiest cases because you don’t have anything to pack. If you are bottle-feeding your baby, remember to bring the powdered milk and ask the hostesses for water if needed or liquid milk in small presentations. Small jars are allowed, so take several with you.

3. The baby’s purse and bag

In the baby’s bag, you should carry enough diapers for the entire flight… and an extra pair. Add a blanket for the little one and at least two changes of clothes.

Don’t forget the wet wipes and of course it is essential that you have an antipyretic and a thermometer in case of a fever. Food, a bottle of water and a toy or entertainment for the child should also be on hand.

In the purse, take one more change of clothes for the baby and one for yourself! You never know if you won’t need it. A word of advice: keep at least two large plastic bags in your suitcase in case your clothes get stained and you should put them away until you reach your destination.

4. Travel clothing

When you go on a long trip with a baby, it is important that you are both comfortable. Forget about stylish clothes and take your child on a journey in comfortable pajamas. Remember not to overdress your child to keep them from sweating, and bring a blanket in case it gets too cold on the plane.

5. If he cries, nothing serious!

Babies cry. Nothing happens if your child does too. Stay calm, take a deep breath, and try to calm him down. Focus on your child and try to shelter him to calm him down.

6. Suction to prevent earaches

During take off and landing, it is recommended that the baby breastfeed to avoid ear pain. If you are breast-feeding, offer the breast either way. If you are bottle-feeding, have one ready for these two times. And if your baby uses a pacifier, don’t forget!

Long trip with a baby in the car!

The great advantage of traveling by car is that you can regulate the pace of the trip, take breaks and control the temperature. You have many more possibilities to seek the comfort of your child and yours.

1. Pick the best time of day

It is best to travel by car when the baby is taking a nap. So you can travel without worrying about your baby’s discomfort. In case you don’t mind driving at night, this might be another good option.

2. Make sure you have a comfortable and suitable car seat

The car seat must be suitable for the age and size of the baby. Before leaving, check that it is correctly positioned and that the child feels comfortable in it, with the three-point belt correctly positioned.

3. Take regular breaks

Calculate when your child will be hungry and try to organize breaks to allow them to get up from their seat, eat and have a little contact with you. Remember that the car seat is not recommended for long periods of time.

4. Don’t forget to take changes

As with air travel, it is imperative to have enough spare clothes and diapers on hand. While it’s easiest to stop and buy when needed, it’s not the most comfortable.

5. Choose comfortable clothes

Comfortable and appropriate clothing for travel is essential to ensure that the baby does not experience discomfort. Avoid wool, coats and clothes that are too light. Keep in mind that the child may be exposed to heat or cold and may even be embarrassed by the stress exerted by the seat on their skin.

Taking a long trip with a baby takes patience, before and during the trip. Take a deep breath and enjoy the adventure – with positive thinking and planning, it will be easier than you think!