Travel helps broaden your views and knowledge about the world. It is good for the body and soul. They say you should start travelling when you’re young and never stop even until you grow old, most especially after having babies.
For new parents, don’t let having a baby stop you from travelling and widening your horizon. It may seem a little difficult and challenging at first, but there are ways to make travelling fun and easy.
There is no minimum age requirement for babies when it comes to airline rules. But in order to enjoy more on your trip, wait until your baby is at least 3 to 6 months old because they tend to sleep through flights instead of crying and squirming all the time.
Here are tips on what to prepare and how to travel with your baby:
Secure a passport
Get all the paperwork done before you travel. Make sure your baby has a valid passport, visa (if required by country of destination) and bring all documentation such as birth certificates; both yours and your baby’s to ensure there will be no hold up in the airport. Couples who are not married usually have this slight delay with TSA (Transportation Security Administration) especially when the mother’s last name is different from the baby’s.
Flight necessities
Before you board the plane, have a bottle or pacifier nearby. Be prepared to nurse before taking off and during landings. Babies need to suck on something during these times so that their ears can relieve pain that comes with the changes in air pressure.
Packing
Ensure that you have enough supplies for the duration of your trip, such as formula, diaper, food, wipes, extra clothes or layers for changes in weather. Just in case your flight gets delayed, pack extra until you get to your destination and do the same for the trip going back. Bring toys, books or a tablet/iPad to entertain your baby on the trip. Bring only a lightweight umbrella stroller that is easy to fold.
Baby rituals before boarding
Change your baby’s diaper so that you don’t have to do it on the plane. Before check-in ask for cots or bassinets for babies. If the flight is not full ask to block off the seat beside you. Prepare a small pack of powder formula as backup or a snack.
Pre-flight preparation
Book flight times during your baby’s nap time and hope he/she will sleep through the whole flight. Visit the doctor before the trip and ensure the baby is complete with all vaccinations. Ask for preventive medicine necessary for the trip depending on your destination.
Just as long as your baby is in good health, have complete documents and two loving parents willing to share the world with them, you are good to go. Some of the best memories of your family will be travelling with your baby. Show them the world, travel and be a happy family.
