As soon as I discovered I was pregnant, my mind buzzed with excitement. My husband and I have shared a love for travel for years, and I could already picture our future adventures with little ones. However, when our baby, Jack, arrived, the idea of traveling felt a bit overwhelming—like trying to fit a lion in a small car! But as daunting as it seemed, I embraced the change. Here’s how I've been relearning how to travel with a baby.
The Mindset Shift
Before Jack joined our family, last-minute trips were a breeze for me. Now, I know I need to approach travel more thoughtfully. It’s no longer just about tossing things into a bag and hopping on a plane; I must consider all the needs of my little one.
Changing my mindset was the first step. Instead of viewing travel with a baby as a burden, I now see it as a chance for us to bond, explore, and experience new things together. For instance, a simple walk through a new city becomes about Jack’s wonder. He marvels at statues and large trees, and I get to experience that joy through his eyes. This shift has transformed the travel experience into something far more fulfilling.
Preparing for the Journey
Preparation is vital when travelling with a baby. I discovered that making a detailed checklist cuts down on stress. Here's what I generally include:
Diapers, wipes, and changing items
Formula, water and bottles (more than you think you'll need!)
Forms of entertainment
Extra clothes to handle inevitable blowouts
A stroller or/and carrier for comfort
Having everything prepared makes tasks like flying with a baby much less intimidating.
By the time we reach the airport, I feel confident rather than stressed.
One Flight at a Time
Flying with a baby is manageable with the right strategies. I make it a point to arrive early at the airport (as much as my husband would rather arrive just before the flight takes off). This gives us enough time to check-in, go through security, and deal with anything that may come up, such as the baby needing to be changed, fed, or maybe even squeeze in a quick nap. With a baby, there’s no need for hurry! Take your time and set yourself up for the flight.
Before I started travelling with Jack, I had been advised to perfectly time naps and book flights that align with nap schedules. However, I haven't found this practical, particularly since we prefer budget travel. Additionally, I was advised to feed the baby during take-off and landing to alleviate pressure. While this is excellent advice in ideal circumstances, due to flight delays and extended periods on the tarmac, it hasn't been effective for us so far.
My advice is to take it one flight at a time. Develop a plan around naps and feeding that could work for that day and that flight. And then embrace the chaos. There will be tears at some point, a nap or a feed that doesn't go to plan, and that its 100% fine! Don't worry about the people around you and just do what is best for your baby and your family.
Appreciating the Journey
Now, I've come to see every trip as more than just a destination. Whether navigating an airport with a stroller or spotting a colourful flower on a walk, every detail holds immense value. I treasure these small moments, knowing they're instrumental in Jack’s growth and in building our family bond.
Every experience, challenge, and breathtaking view adds to our story as a family exploring this world together. Relearning how to travel is a journey, and with each outing, I feel more equipped and confident.
Embracing the New Adventure
Reflecting on our experiences travelling with Jack, I see both challenges and joys. The crowded airports and cheerful beach days remind us that we are learning and enjoying every moment.
Travelling with a baby can be a new adventure rather than a daunting task. So pack your bags, bring your little one, and prepare to make beautiful memories—because adventure is calling!
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