How to make holidays smooth sailing with a baby

The dilemma a lot of parents face is taking a pram on holiday with you, especially when you are travelling by plane. It can be a daunting prospect if you are a first-time parent, but if you are well prepared, it is much easier. Versatile 3 in 1 prams are a great option when travelling as you won’t have to compromise your child’s safety and comfort.

Travelling by car

This is the easiest way to go on holiday with your child as you are not limited as to what you can take. You will have enough space to take a pram as well as any extra accessories your baby might need. In addition, it can be a leisurely journey, not restricted to time scales which is less stressful. You don’t have to worry about weight restrictions or overpacking, as long as everything fits into your car and you don’t take everything but the kitchen sink!

Travelling by plane

Flying can be a little more of a challenge, especially if you haven’t travelled with a baby before. This is usually because you are more likely to be stressed and anxious as you have an extra person to be responsible for when going through the various stages of flying: security, passport control, and boarding. Taking a pram is extra luggage to take with you so before booking flights, you should check to see if you would be additionally charged; most airlines will let you put a pram and travel seat in the hold at no extra cost. You should consider taking a baby carrier/sling to the airport as it would provide your baby with extra comfort as airport lounges tend to be noisy. Furthermore, it will free up your hands which makes going through security and handing over passports and tickets when boarding, making it a lot easier when you will also need to carry luggage with you.

Best time to travel and destination

When looking at booking a holiday, whether it is a staycation or a vacation, you should consider the type of terrain you will be in. You can then adjust what you are packing to suit the right climate and terrain which will make it much more comfortable for you and your child. In will also help you to decide if somewhere is pushchair friendly as it could become an issue if all the street is cobbles or the destination is rather rocky. Time is an important factor to consider, especially if you are flying as you need to stick to a schedule. Try to book a flight when its usually your child’s nap time. It is a lot easier if you are travelling by car as you are not restricted to leaving at a set time. No matter how you are travelling, leaving your home or the airport when your child has got a full tummy will create a happier baby for a longer period of time.

Keep your baby happy

It doesn’t matter what mode of transport you take to go on holiday but you do need to keep your little one amused. Packing plenty of easily accessible toys will provide entertainment so that they don’t get bored. Pack a baby blanket that has your home scent on which your baby will recognise. This will provide comfort and security to help settle them, especially when there is a lot of noise. Taking plenty of snacks, drink and baby milk/food will help keep both you and your baby hydrated and full which will help your baby not to become unsettled. Even if you changed your baby’s nappy an hour before leaving the house, you should change it again just before leaving as trying to change a baby when travelling can be stressful; especially in airports as they are so busy. When you are travelling, try to keep to the same routine your child is used to as they would be more settled if they are fed, have naps, and sleep at a similar time they are used to.

Wherever you decide to holiday, shorter journeys are more suitable when travelling with a child. If you are wanting to go abroad but find the process daunting, consider looking at holidays in Europe. These short-haul flights are ideal when travelling with children as they don’t need to be entertained for as long. Furthermore, if your baby needs anything, there will be familiar brands available to you, not to mention access to healthcare, if it is needed.

Remember, the less stressed you are, the less stressed your baby will be!