General Tips for Travel with Babies/Toddlers pt. 2
I want to discuss what you need to have handy during the actual 'travel to destination' portion of a trip. And really while you're out and about on the trip too. We'll also talk general strategies for once you've arrived.
For travel to destination by any mode, dress your baby for quick and easy diaper changes. Loose and comfy clothes, in layers for changes in temperature.
Dress comfortably yourself. Think about breastfeeding in confined spaces and what to wear to best accommodate that if applicable.
Have an extra shirt for mom and dad (regardless of wee one's age) not packed in the suitcase.
Diaper Bag
I still use a diaper bag for Little E when we travel, even though day to day I don't use one any more. So for older toddlers, pack them a bag or backpack. We'll talk toys later.
Snacks!
Not too many years ago, this wouldn't have mattered. And for some it still doesn't. Many people like to unplug. That often requires at least some pre-planning. Usually the only thing Andrew and I plan before a trip with baby is where we're sleeping each night and how to get there. It means we may miss out on something, but the freedom works for us. So, one of the first things we do in a new country is buy a SIM card with data. I especially like it for the maps while walking around and for public transit routes. We also "need" one for Andrew if he's at a conference without WiFi (crazy it happens, I know).
A Vacation of Balance
I've heard people say that having kids means you can't do what you want or would have done before having them. And for some people the cost of having a child is prohibitive to travel. Fair. But for me, the baby itself shouldn't stop you from doing most things, just introduces new things.
So planning vacation time means staying balanced. Kid activities versus adult activities. Even the smallest of babes can enjoy splash pads, kids museums or science centers. Balance that with the art galleries, museums and fancy restaurants the adults want to visit. Opportunity for fun and play should make quiet, good behaviour easier during adult-chosen activities.
Also keep an eye on balancing time spent indoors and time outdoors. Both over the whole vacation and each day. Fresh air will help with napping and bedtime.
Napping Smarts
Have realistic expectations. Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take turns nap-sitting with your partner sometimes.
Plan for naps most days. But also consider the occasional quiet restful time instead of one nap. Could be a drive or a peaceful walk in a stroller or carrier.
Easier Bedtimes
When you plan to put your child to bed the first time (if they're not already passed out), go into the bedroom 1 hour before the designated sleep time. Spend 30 minutes exploring the room with your child and play in it. Baby proof it and blackout the windows. This should help the excitement of a new room wear off. At the 30 minute mark, start your bed time routine. If you want to do bath time, you need to decide if it's before play in bedroom or part way thru, in which case you'd need to go into the bedroom even earlier.
I really like the deep breathing trick which can even be done while singing sleepy songs. I also need to remind myself and Andrew that as soon as the 30 minute countdown begins, it's no more fun and games or giggles, just quiet relaxing happy time. It can easily take 3 nights to get back to a normal routine in a new place.
If wee one wakes up earlier than usual the first morning, take that time for snuggles. If possible, hydrate but wait on food (without being mean, and for breastfeeding this goes out the window).
I've always found it harder for the adults to fully adjust than for the babes. Here are some tips. Get plenty of light early in the morning and during the day, avoid bright lights at night. Don't take naps yourself while you're adjusting your internal clock. Stay hydrated.
Bad Behaviour at Bed Time (Toddlers)
It can be expected that with a new environment, possible time change, over excitement, boredom and confinement during travel that some bad behaviour might arise. Remember that going to bed is not a punishment, so don't use it as a threat. Follow the introduction to the room and bed time routine (prolonged for max. relaxation). If bad behaviour continues past night one, continue with the pre-bed play in the room and the prolonged routine and shift the "goal time" for bed 15-20 minutes earlier since it's taking longer to get to sleep. Also start "quiet relaxing happy time" at the 60 minute countdown.
There are definitely times when parents hit their patience limit. If this happens, I believe it's better to leave a child screaming for a few minutes (3-10) than to become angry or agitated when you're trying to calm them down. Remember the deep breath exercise.
Evening Attitude
The one thing I miss the most about travelling before baby is the evening time. Once baby no longer sleeps in public, I kept to bed time pretty strictly. To make the most of this time, brainstorm a few ideas ahead of time with your partner. Andrew and I usually have about 4 hours of adult time each evening. Adjusting your attitude can make all the difference. Really enjoy the relaxation time!
Expect your child to require more attention when travelling. Try to anticipate meltdowns by staying on top of their need for food, drink, a clean diaper, some time to play, some special attention, and sleep. I've always found that pumping Little E full of food he likes keeps the edge off, even when he's far passed the over-tired mark.
Enjoy the happy moments and try to roll through the challenging ones.
Things to Have Handy During Travel to Destination
The OutfitFor travel to destination by any mode, dress your baby for quick and easy diaper changes. Loose and comfy clothes, in layers for changes in temperature.
Dress comfortably yourself. Think about breastfeeding in confined spaces and what to wear to best accommodate that if applicable.
Have an extra shirt for mom and dad (regardless of wee one's age) not packed in the suitcase.
Diaper Bag
I still use a diaper bag for Little E when we travel, even though day to day I don't use one any more. So for older toddlers, pack them a bag or backpack. We'll talk toys later.- Bring way more diapers and wipes than necessary (even if you have more in a suitcase somewhere)
- Bring sanitizing wipes, and wipe down germy areas while en route and at destination
- Roll of dog poop bags for wet outfits and diaper changes (can get at dollar store)
- Have an extra outfit (down to the socks) for babe and a sleeper/pjs
- At least two bibs, along with a tiny spoon or fork
Snacks!
As soon as baby starts eating/testing/playing with solids, you'll want to bring some with you.
The only time we used squeeze pouches was while travelling. Once they're opened you have to use them pretty quick, though you can keep them chilled in a cooler. I like that you can spoon a few mouthfuls into a young baby and put the lid back on, or you can give an entire one to a toddler and it takes a major edge off the hunger beast. I also like Mum-mums (for babe) and fish crackers and raisins (for toddler).
Basically, you can't have too much food. I carry a cooler for baby, separate from the diaper bag with all the goodies in it. If nothing needs to be chilled you can just use a plastic bag which takes up no room when empty.
The only time we used squeeze pouches was while travelling. Once they're opened you have to use them pretty quick, though you can keep them chilled in a cooler. I like that you can spoon a few mouthfuls into a young baby and put the lid back on, or you can give an entire one to a toddler and it takes a major edge off the hunger beast. I also like Mum-mums (for babe) and fish crackers and raisins (for toddler).Basically, you can't have too much food. I carry a cooler for baby, separate from the diaper bag with all the goodies in it. If nothing needs to be chilled you can just use a plastic bag which takes up no room when empty.
Once you've arrived
Cell Phones with InternetNot too many years ago, this wouldn't have mattered. And for some it still doesn't. Many people like to unplug. That often requires at least some pre-planning. Usually the only thing Andrew and I plan before a trip with baby is where we're sleeping each night and how to get there. It means we may miss out on something, but the freedom works for us. So, one of the first things we do in a new country is buy a SIM card with data. I especially like it for the maps while walking around and for public transit routes. We also "need" one for Andrew if he's at a conference without WiFi (crazy it happens, I know).
A Vacation of Balance
I've heard people say that having kids means you can't do what you want or would have done before having them. And for some people the cost of having a child is prohibitive to travel. Fair. But for me, the baby itself shouldn't stop you from doing most things, just introduces new things.
And I'm like... Had a baby, what country am I going to next?
Also keep an eye on balancing time spent indoors and time outdoors. Both over the whole vacation and each day. Fresh air will help with napping and bedtime.
 |
| The sheet underneath should be snug |
Have realistic expectations. Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take turns nap-sitting with your partner sometimes.
Plan for naps most days. But also consider the occasional quiet restful time instead of one nap. Could be a drive or a peaceful walk in a stroller or carrier.
Easier Bedtimes
- Trial run a pack 'n play before hand if possible or even a mattress on the floor of another bedroom
- Book the right rooms
- Black out windows
(He didn't actually sleep with blankets at this age)
When you plan to put your child to bed the first time (if they're not already passed out), go into the bedroom 1 hour before the designated sleep time. Spend 30 minutes exploring the room with your child and play in it. Baby proof it and blackout the windows. This should help the excitement of a new room wear off. At the 30 minute mark, start your bed time routine. If you want to do bath time, you need to decide if it's before play in bedroom or part way thru, in which case you'd need to go into the bedroom even earlier.
- Stick to the routine (this is ours)
- Bath
- Diaper
- Pajamas
- Teeth Brushed
- Books
- (Bottle or Nursing Here)
- Songs and snuggles
- Kisses
- Night night and tucking in
- Give it a few days
I really like the deep breathing trick which can even be done while singing sleepy songs. I also need to remind myself and Andrew that as soon as the 30 minute countdown begins, it's no more fun and games or giggles, just quiet relaxing happy time. It can easily take 3 nights to get back to a normal routine in a new place.
Time Change 
The number one thing is to stay up until bed time in the new time zone (period, no "if possible"). And don't plan on letting baby nap more than they would at home during the day (wake up your sleeping child - eek!). However, if you're travelling for 20+ hours than one extra nap is completely acceptable. Don't have the last nap ending much closer to bedtime than it would at home. (Ex. if they sleep 1-4pm at home and go to bed at 7:30pm, don't let them have a nap ending much after 4:30pm in the new time zone.
If wee one wakes up earlier than usual the first morning, take that time for snuggles. If possible, hydrate but wait on food (without being mean, and for breastfeeding this goes out the window).
I've always found it harder for the adults to fully adjust than for the babes. Here are some tips. Get plenty of light early in the morning and during the day, avoid bright lights at night. Don't take naps yourself while you're adjusting your internal clock. Stay hydrated.
Bad Behaviour at Bed Time (Toddlers)
There are definitely times when parents hit their patience limit. If this happens, I believe it's better to leave a child screaming for a few minutes (3-10) than to become angry or agitated when you're trying to calm them down. Remember the deep breath exercise.
Evening Attitude
The one thing I miss the most about travelling before baby is the evening time. Once baby no longer sleeps in public, I kept to bed time pretty strictly. To make the most of this time, brainstorm a few ideas ahead of time with your partner. Andrew and I usually have about 4 hours of adult time each evening. Adjusting your attitude can make all the difference. Really enjoy the relaxation time!
- Cards, small board or computer games
- Taking turns hitting the local music scene
- Plan for the next day's adventure
- Intentionally read a specific book (maybe with your partner)
- Listen to music or watch a movie with popcorn
- Upload and edit photos
- Sit on a balcony or in the backyard (have a campfire)
- If it's a work trip, know ahead of time how much evening work and partying is expected
A cranky babe has an unmet need
Enjoy the happy moments and try to roll through the challenging ones.
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