Smart Moms are Savvy Travelers

Originally published in the Tuscany Sun November 2007

Traveling with your new baby is exciting! New experiences, new places, new faces…it can all be a little overwhelming too. Smart moms know that for a stress free trip with baby you will need some extra planning and preparation.

Don’t let the trials of traveling with your baby stop that adventurous spirit that you had before baby was in your life.   

 Now is the time to start planning for your baby’s first trip. Here are a few mom-tested tips to make your trip a success:

• Try to arrange your departure flight for a time of day when baby likes to nap. The odds will be in your favor that your little one will be quiet and content during the flight if they are drifting off to sleep just as the flight is taking off.
• A soft carrier, like the Baby Bjorn is essential for quick connections through the airport. It will keep baby comfortable and close to you. Baby can stay cuddled up next to you through security and onto the plane. Once onboard, safety regulations require you to take all straps off along with the carrier- that’s when it turns into a padded pod for baby to sleep on your lap.
• Bring a little extra of the essentials in your carry on- diapers, formula and an extra receiving blanket. Don’t panic if your flight is delayed. Carry a few extra diapers in your bag and some pre-measured formula that can be mixed up quickly if you are delayed. That receiving blanket can double as a clean up cloth, cover for breastfeeding moms or rolled up as a pillow if you get the chance to catch a few zzzzzzz’s yourself.
• Keep pieces of luggage to a minimum. Extra onesies and baby’s favorite blanket are essentials but car seats, strollers and pack n plays can really slow you down. Plan ahead and arrange for baby equipment rentals at your destination. Most major cities have companies that will supply you with all the comforts of home for baby while you are away. And, because most of these companies are run by moms- you can expect spotless equipment and strict safety standards.

Most importantly, try to relax and go with the flow. If baby decides not to sleep, entertain her with her favorite toy. If your flight gets delayed make the most of your extra time and take a walk through the airport. She will take her cues from you; the more relaxed you are the happier all of you will be on your first trip!

(Stacey Corbett is a mother of twins and the owner of One Tiny Suitcase, Calgary’s premier baby equipment rental company.