Top 10 Tips for Traveling With Baby This Summer

June 4, 2009 by Baby Chums
Filed under: Tips

Summer is here and just because you now have a baby doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a weekend away. Follow these ten tips for a successful trip.

Lather on the Sunblock. Yes, it’s nearly impossible to get complete sunblock coverage on a baby who just discovered how to crawl (or roll over, or walk), but it’s easier than consoling a sunburned baby. Trust me.
Limit Sun for Babies Under 6 Months. The best sun protection for babies under 6 months old is loose fitting cotton clothing and a wide brimmed hat. Try to limit sun exposure for very young babies by keeping them in the shade. You can do this by directing the stroller away from the sun or using a blanket to shield the direct rays.
Offer Lots to Drink. Offer extra breastmilk or formula to make sure baby stays well hydrated during hot summer days. For babies already on solid food, have a sippy cup of water on hand.
Keep the Metal Cool. Throw a blanket or burp cloth over the metal buckles of your car seat so when you return to the car baby doesn’t get burned.
Avoid Traffic. Summer traffic is unavoidable but you’ll be better off if you start your trip at night or very early in the morning when there are fewer cars on the road.
Stock the Car. If you aren’t traveling during baby’s nap or sleep time, make sure you stock the car with music, safe car toys (no choking hazards), and lots of snacks. I’ve reluctantly given up on keeping my car clean if it means less screaming kids during long drives.
Let the Schedule Slip a Little. It’s ok to let baby’s schedule slip a bit when you are on vacation. Even if your baby gets off schedule a little bit, it usually doesn’t take longer than a day or two to get back to his normal schedule.
Pack Appropriate Gear. The type of trip you are taking will determine which gear you’ll bring. Consider bringing your jogger stroller or bugaboo to the beach because you can push them over sand. Bring a backpack carrier to a lake house where there is hiking. Take just your umbrella stroller for a day at the zoo.
Don’t Forget the Baby Powder. Baby powder is a must have for the beach. It is the most effective way of cleaning sand out of baby’s hands, face, tush, legs, toes, and belly rolls. Pour a generous amount (more than you think you need) wherever you see sand and rub it in a little, and voila, no more sand.
Have Fun! This may be the most important tip of all. Traveling with a baby can be stressful at times, and most certainly requires more planning than traveling alone, but don’t get so worried about being away from your normal routine where it takes away from your fun.

This article was written by Adrienne Shulman. Adrienne takes frequent trips during the summer to the Jersey shore from her home in Westchester, NY with her 2 young daughters. She is the founder of TinyPlayground.com, a website devoted to helping new moms everywhere.