The essential guide to traveling with a newborn
Parenthood makes many things seem impossible, but traveling with a newborn doesn’t have to be one of them.
With a little extra preparation, you can make the experience much smoother for you and your baby. As a new mom, you’re likely feeling a range of emotions: happiness, love, exhaustion, and maybe even some anxiety. And if you’re planning to travel with your newborn, you might feel all those things and a bit of extra stress.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help. This article will share some of our best travel tips for moms with newborns. From what to pack to how to deal with jet lag, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your trip successful.
1) Choose your destination wisely
The first step in planning a trip with a newborn is to choose your destination wisely. Suppose you’re looking for a relaxing vacation somewhere with plenty of amenities and plenty of help on hand. In that case, a baby-friendly resort or hotel is probably your best bet. But if you’re up for some adventure, then a more remote destination might be just what you desire.
Tennessee is a particularly great state to visit with a newborn. Not only is it home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, but it also has plenty of baby-friendly attractions. From the world-famous Dollywood theme park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s something for everyone in Tennessee.
The Smoky Mountain cabin rentals are great for families with small children. You can find plenty of cabins that offer all the amenities you need, like kitchens and laundry facilities, close to all the best attractions.
2) Timing is everything
When you’re traveling with a newborn, timing is everything. The best time to travel is usually when your baby is between two weeks and four months. At this age, babies are generally more content and less fussy than they are at any other time. They’re also small enough to be easily portable but not so young that they need constant care. As a parent, you must prepare for anything.
No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance that your baby will get sick or have a meltdown during your trip. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place. If possible, try to travel with another adult who can help care for the baby if you need a break. And be sure to pack plenty of diapers, wipes, and other essential supplies.
3) Pack light
One of the best advice for traveling with a newborn is to pack light. You’ll likely be carrying enough gear, so there’s no need to add to the load by filling unnecessary items. When it comes to clothes, pack just what you need and leave the rest home. You can always do laundry while you’re on vacation if necessary.
The same goes for baby gear. If you’re renting a car, bring along only the essentials, like a travel crib, car seat, and stroller. And if you’re flying, consider shipping some of your gear ahead so you don’t have to lug it through the airport.
4) Be prepared for anything
As a new mom, you know that babies are unpredictable. They can get sick at the drop of a hat, have a meltdown in the middle of the night, or refuse to sleep when you need them to. Newborns are super fragile, so parents must prepare for anything when traveling with them.
Make sure you pack enough diapers, wipes, and clothes to last the entire trip. And don’t forget to carry essential items like a thermometer, Tylenol, and an attachment parenting book. You should also have a plan for what to do if your baby gets sick while you’re on vacation.
5) Don’t forget about yourself
It’s easy to get so caught up in taking care of a newborn that you forget to take care of yourself. But it’s important to remember that you need some time to relax and recharge, too. When planning a trip with a newborn, be sure to schedule some time for yourself.
Whether a few hours at the spa or a night out, you deserve some time to relax and enjoy. After all, you can’t take care of your baby if you’re not taking care of yourself.
6) Try a new destination
If you’re looking for a truly unique vacation experience, consider traveling to a new destination. There are plenty of great places to visit, from the beaches of Hawaii to the mountains of Colorado. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take your baby on a safari in Africa.
No matter where you go, remember to research the destination before you go. Make sure it’s baby-friendly and that you have a solid plan in place for how to care for your little one while you’re away from home.
7) Have realistic expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations when you’re traveling with a newborn. No matter how well you plan, there’s a good chance that something will go wrong. And that’s okay.
If your baby gets sick or won’t sleep, try not to stress too much. These things happen, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Just remember that you’re on vacation, and try to enjoy yourself as much as possible.
8) Have fun
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun. Traveling with a newborn can be challenging but also an amazing experience. Soak up all the new sights and sounds with your little one and create memories that will last a lifetime. Also, don’t forget to take plenty of pictures. You’ll want to look back on this time fondly for years to come.
You need an open mind to travel with a newborn
The one thing you should always bring when traveling with a newborn is an open mind. You never know what might happen, and it’s best to be prepared for anything! Make sure you pack enough supplies, have a solid plan, and try to relax and enjoy yourself.
Also, don’t forget to have fun and take plenty of pictures. These tips will help you make the most of your vacation, no matter where you go.
