Newborn Baby Care: The Complete Guide When You Travel with Newborn

Travelling is fun and exciting, especially when you have been looking for that trip for a long time. But with this pandemic ruining most of the plans, it has become difficult to travel. Even with precautions and following all guidelines, traveling during this pandemic is a risky decision. Planning a trip with a baby is a great experience but it brings along lots of responsibilities. While we return back to normal lives, it is essential to take special care of our newborns during the trip. 

Some simple yet important tips to make travel easier and safe for your baby.

1. Getting vaccinated
   Currently, there are numerous approved vaccinations available globally, but in most cases are not approved for newborns. There have been some reported cases of mild infections among children. And while the parents and older kids would be vaccinated, the newborns might be at risk. So, it is important to take necessary precautions and doctor-recommended medication for your baby.

1. Research the infection trends and guidelines of your destination
   Traveling to a location with increasing or high infection rates would be putting your baby at high risk. Follow the official releases and news about the area you are traveling to. Do your research and keep a close eye on the numbers. Read about the Covid safety guidelines and policies of your locale. Unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid traveling to hotspots with your baby.
2. Prefer car or private vehicle over public transport
   Road trips are definitely more enjoyable and a memorable experience. And in the current situation, avoiding too much public contact or shared spaces would be a smart move. While you would still have to stop for refueling and bathroom breaks, you can minimize exposure to your baby.
   
   Pack the food and other supplies you need for the trip to make it convenient and safe. While the airlines and transport companies are trying their best to make it safe, avoiding any excess external contact is better for the baby. If you are flying, try and find direct flights and shortest durations to avoid long exposure. Overall, traveling by car or a private hire would be safer and convenient. 
3. Disinfecting wipes and sanitizers are an essential commodity
   In these tough times, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizers are your weapons. While you are cautious and mindful in touching the surfaces, you can’t avoid them altogether. Carry a bunch of disinfectant wipes and use them to sanitize any high-touch surface you plan on using. You cannot risk the safety of your child. Also, while traveling, use hand sanitizers frequently, especially if you are touching a lot of external surfaces.
   
   Carry an extra supply of wipes and hand sanitizers, along with a small dispenser for refills and easy use.
4. Consult your doctor/pediatrician
   While it would be a new experience for your baby, you should consult your doctor before this adventure. Newborn babies are still adapting to their surroundings and need special attention for the first few months. There are lots of vaccinations and checkups that babies need. Also, you need to be extra cautious about the baby’s schedule and keep it consistent. Ask about the vaccinations, dietary needs, and any other important things you should know as a parent.
   
   Moreover, if the baby is healthy and ready for this journey. Talk to your doctor and get their advice on things you should be prepared for on the trip.
5. Plan your itinerary carefully
   
   In these trying times, traveling is already pretty exhausting and things can change unexpectedly. So, while you are traveling with your baby, you cannot take any risks or just go with the wind. Know your lodging needs and travel arrangements. Pay close attention to things like if the hotel can provide a crib for the baby. Or will you be charged extra for a stroller on the flights? You can check for such details on the website or contact the helpdesk for these. Also, make sure you aren’t planning long travel hours or activities. Baby’s sleep cycles might be disturbed due to this and they would be fussy during the trip. If you are traveling by car, you could consider buying Inflatable seat extensions, so your baby could sleep peacefully.
6. Pack the baby essentials
   While you are away from home, you would want your baby to be comfortable and relaxed. And nothing is more horrifying that you forgot your baby’s soft pillow or bibs. Make a checklist of all the items your baby needs every day and pack them. Moreover, you need to be mindful about keeping all infant items sterilized, be it the pacifier or the milk bottle. Packing a portable travel sterilizer or a travel kettle would be a smart idea for sterilizing bottles and other things.
   
   Also, pack some extra clothes, baby blankets, and other accessories. You could also bring baby essentials that you would be using as a mother. If you’re breastfeeding, you can bring Majka lactation cookie bites to maintain a healthy milk supply while traveling.
7. Carry medical supplies and medicines
   While traveling, it is always useful to carry some medicines for flu, cough, and infections. Hopefully, you don’t have to use them, but it is better to be prepared. Do consult your doctor about the medicines you should pack for your baby. Some essentials like mosquito patches, baby lotion, wet wipes, and bandages should be in your medical kit.
   
   You don’t have to be stressed out about traveling with your baby. That little angel is stronger than it looks. Just keep your baby happy and comfortable and pack up for your adventure. It is time to have a good family time and head out with your little one.