Cape Town - The holidays are almost here and this year you have a little addition to your family who you love more than life itself. You are planning on going away for the holidays to see friends and family and also to introduce them to your new baby, but when looking at your little bundle you are not too sure about how to make the trip as comfortable for baby as for you.
Travelling with your baby should be exciting and seen as family time. Planning ahead of time will allow you to be prepared for most situations.
If you are travelling in a car, don’t forget your car seat. Taking your pram with you may help if you would like to walk with your newborn during stops.
Take a blanket that’s right for the weather on the day. One of the wonderful benefits of breastfeeding is that your milk is always readily available.
If bottle-feeding, make sure you have a number of sterilised bottles to make up a feed while you are out. In your bag you will need nappies, wipes, breast pads if you are breastfeeding, a changing mat, hand sanitiser and disposable bags for dirty nappies. (If your baby still has its umbilical cord, then don’t forget your cleaning regime.)
It is also a good idea to have an extra set of clothes for you and baby, a pacifier or some other comfort item, which can make a difference to both of your travelling experiences. It is also good to have a first aid kit in your car with basic items such as plasters, cotton wool and tweezers.
Don’t forget to bring along baby’s favourite rattle and soft toys to keep him/her busy whilst on the road. An assortment of hats and sunscreen to protect baby from the harsh sun’s rays especially if you’re going down to the coast. Baby’s skin is very delicate and soft and keeping it hydrated and healthy could help in preventing skin disease in the future.
If your baby is in a routine, try and map your travelling time accordingly. It is also suggested that you travel along main routes where you know there will be plenty of restrooms and restaurants along the way in case your little one needs an unforeseen nappy change or feed. It is easier if mom or dad sits in the back with baby to be able to assist baby at all times.
When travelling with your baby by airplane, it is advisable to feed your baby before the plane takes off as you will not only feed baby, but you will also alleviate the pressure on your baby’s ears.
Alternatively you can use your clean fingertip/pacifier for baby to suck on. Having a baby carrier or sling to walk baby up and down the isle/s is also recommended for when baby starts getting restless.
The older your newborn gets the more awake they will be and in order to stimulate them accordingly you can have some soft toys and dangling toys with which to entertain them.
Enjoy travel time with your little one and even in unexpected situations your little one will be able to receive the most precious gift from you, a mother’s hug.
Adapted from a press release for IOL