Can I Travel with a Newborn Baby?
A newborn baby is an awesome gift, but they’re certainly a ton of work. Many first-time parents, find the first few months are a big transition. Your baby will require nonstop attention and need constant feeding and diaper changes. Staying close to home for the first few months is probably a good idea. You’ll want to spend all your time bonding with your baby and will no doubt feel quite exhausted.
By the age of three or four months, your baby is actually much less fragile and can make a pretty good traveller. At this age, your child is young enough that they aren’t walking, which at least means they can’t access things they shouldn’t or run away when you’re not looking.
What Essentials Should I Bring When Travelling with My Baby?
Although travelling with a baby can seem daunting, with the right preparation it is very doable. Here are some essentials you’ll want to include when travelling with your little one.
Car Seat
In a vehicle, your child should be in a rear-facing car seat. It’s important to keep your little one out of the front seat, where there is an airbag. Also, if you’ll be travelling by public transportation (taxi, bus or train) at your destination, make sure to always bring a car seat to transport your baby. Even if public transportation doesn’t allow you to secure the seat in place, it still provides greater security for your child. Prior to your trip, ensure the car seat is correctly installed and the harness is adjusted to guarantee your baby’s comfort and security.
Sunscreen
Before taking your baby outdoors for any activities it’s important that he or she is properly protected from the sun. Young babies have delicate skin and should be protected from the sun’s strong rays.
When choosing a sunscreen, ensure it has both UVA and UVB protection. Use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 but one with SPF 30 is even better–especially if your baby has fair skin.
Lightweight Strollers
Lightweight strollers, also known as umbrella strollers, aren’t as comfy as larger options; however, their lightweight, compact design makes them great for travelling. It’s recommended to check your airline policy, prior to departing to see if your stroller can be checked and waiting for you at your destination.
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