Packing Like a Pro

Having enough clothes is essential for anyone who is traveling – young or old. For a baby, pack the same number of items that you would typically use at home in the same amount of time (e.g. 3 outfits per day). Check the forecast for your vacation and make sure to pack accordingly. Also, call ahead to your hotel or destination spot and check if they have laundry facilities. Purex 3-in-1 sheets are great for vacationing and can mean lighter suitcases to lug around if you can recycle a few outfits.

As for baby staples such as diapers, wipes, formula, Tylenol, etc., you should only pack enough for your flight or drive. You can buy the rest of the items you need once you arrive – just remember to pack a few extras in case of flight delays or “Daddy’s directions.” Your baby’s shampoo, lotions, diaper cream, etc. can be brought with you, along with any prescribed medications. If you’re flying, remember to check to latest TSA regulations. Items not needed in the airport should go in your luggage. Formula, breast milk, or juice that will be in your carry-on are allowed, but must be declared at the security checkpoint and will be subject to additional screening. All other liquids must follow the 3-1-1 rule: 3.5 oz. (100mL) or smaller in a 1 quart bag with a limit of 1 bag per person.

For the flight or car ride pack enough toys to keep your child happy, although avoid noisy toys that talk, squeak, or jingle – your fellow passengers will appreciate it.

Addressing Flight Complications

Infants must be at least 7 days old to fly, however, check with your airline as some allow younger infants with a doctor’s note, while others require a stricter 14-day minimum. Babies under the age of 2 may fly free on domestic flights if they ride in a parent’s lap. This is a money-saver, but keep in mind that your child will be safest in a car seat. Many airlines will discount your child’s seat though, if they are under age 2, so research your options before deciding.

Invest in multipurpose items, such as the gogo Kidz Travelmate, which accommodates your car seat and transforms it into a stroller ($89, www.gogobabyz.com). If you’re not taking your stroller or car seat on the plane, wrap the items in plastic for protection before checking the item. If you are, ensure that your baby’s car seat is FAA approved for air travel. Another convenience is gate checking, which allows you to leave the stroller at the gate before you board the plane and will be waiting for you when you arrive. This is very handy if you have a layover.

Baby slings or vests are another great alternative for easy transportation around the airport and during layovers. Some airlines even allow you to wear your sling during the flight (except for take-off and landing) in case you choose not to buy  a separate seat for your child. Try the Cozy Rider Infant Carrier by Infantino ($23, www.babyant.com).

Remember that you don’t have to board early when they call for travelers with children. It might be smarter to board later and enjoy the extra leg space in the waiting room. If you haven’t purchased a ticket for your infant, your arms will also appreciate the few extra minutes.

Making Your Hotel Baby-Friendly

Verify what your hotel offers in terms of cribs, high chairs, and baby-proofing items. If you’re not driving or cannot take these items with you, consider renting these items from a Baby Equipment Rental company such as Baby’s Away. Just be sure to ask if the equipment is checked in between rentals, how it is cleaned, and if there are any delivery, set-up, late fees or cancellation fees. If your hotel does not offer a baby-proofing option, pack ribbon or pipe cleaners to close cupboards or tie up loose cords and masking tape to cover outlets.

Since you’ll be on vacation and may not have a large sink or dishwasher in your room, consider disposal feeding options such as baby bottles, sippy cups, and bibs for easy clean-up while out and about. These items can even be delivered to your destination by Babies Travel Lite , an innovative company making infant travel easier, or purchased once you’ve reached your destination.

Enjoying Your Vacation

Traveling can affect anyone’s daily routine, especially a young child’s. For babies, the new sound of a train passing by your hotel window or the crowds at a theme park can result in an unwelcome meltdown. Even toddlers and young children can have a tantrum if introduced to too many new things too soon. Instead, set realistic expectations, be prepared to slow down, and follow some of the following tips to make your baby’s first vacation enjoyable for everyone:

Choose a Family-Friendly Destination: Picking a location that is familiar with young travelers is of the utmost importance. Times Square on New Year’s Eve or Daytona Beach at Spring Break are not the best vacation spots. Instead, consider beach retreats, small towns with lots of charm (Staunton, VA), family camps, or even Grandma’s house for the first vacation. Club Med has Baby Club Med programs at nine of their worldwide locations for babies four months or older to help Mom and Dad enjoy their vacation just as much as baby.

Establish a Routine and Keep It: If possible, try to adhere to a schedule on vacation that is similar to your child’s schedule at home. While your vacation may not allow for this, establishing a modified routine that you keep throughout the vacation will be helpful to your little one. Eating meals and taking naps at the same time each day will help your baby feel more comfortable and relaxed. Also, young children have a different inner clock than most adults and are not prone to sleeping in and staying up late. Consider doing most of your activities in the morning, and then heading back to the hotel in the afternoon for restful play at the pool or in the room.

Bring a Favorite Toy from Home: Babies or toddlers will appreciate having their favorite blanket, stuffed giraffe, or pacifier at the new place. Plan ahead, and try to bring a replacement in case the original gets lost.

Take Lots of Photos: Don’t forget the camera, film, and extra batteries. The memories you create during baby’s first vacation will be something you’ll want to cherish for a lifetime.