The first holiday with a baby is an exciting but also challenging time for many parents. Whereas in the past you might have been able to spontaneously decide on a destination, you now will want to give extra thought to ensure that the holiday is enjoyable and stress-free for the whole family. In this blog post, we will explain what parents can look out for when planning their first holiday with their baby.
Choosing the destination
Before you even start packing, the choice of destination is crucial. When planning a holiday with a baby, parents can consider the following criteria, for example:
Family friendliness
Is the destination child-friendly? Are there enough facilities for families with babies, such as safe cots, pram-friendly paths and restaurants with highchairs?
Climate and weather
The weather plays an important role, especially if the baby is still very young. Extremely hot or cold temperatures can be uncomfortable for the baby. A mild climate is therefore often the best choice.
Travelling time and distance
Long plane or car journeys can be exhausting, especially for a small baby (and the new parents 😅). It is advisable to choose a destination that is not too far away so that the journey does not take too long.
Health and safety
Is the destination safe for babies? Are there good medical facilities nearby in case the baby gets sick? Is it in a region for which your baby’s existing immunisation is sufficient?
Once the destination has been decided, it’s time to start preparing for the actual holiday.
Packing
When packing for a holiday with a baby, parents want to think about everything their child might need during the holiday. Here are some important things that should not be missing:
Clothes
Pack enough clothes, including bodysuits, rompers, socks, hats and jackets, depending on the weather conditions at your destination.
Nappies and wet wipes
Make sure you take enough nappies and wipes for the whole trip, as your favourite brands may not be readily available everywhere. If you have a hotel with a spa or are by the sea, swimming nappies and suitable swim aids are also recommended.
Baby food
Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, make sure you take everything you need to feed your baby the entire duration of your holiday. Also pack utensils such as bottles, dummies and milk powder.
Sleeping utensils
Bring your baby’s usual sleeping gear, such as a travel cot, blanket and favourite cuddly toy.
Baby first-aid kit
A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential for a holiday with your baby. Here are some important items that should not be missing from your baby’s first-aid kit:
– Clinical thermometer
– Painkillers for children (after consulting a doctor)
– Nasal aspirator or nose drops for blocked noses
– Disinfectant for the hands
– Sun cream especially for babies
– Insect repellent for babies
A well-prepared baby travel first-aid kit can help ensure that parents can act quickly in the event of illness or minor injuries without having to worry. Here we have linked a travel first-aid kit checklist for you to download, so you can be sure you don’t forget anything:
The first holiday with a baby can be a wonderful experience if parents prepare well and pay attention to their baby’s needs. By choosing the right destination, packing carefully and putting together a baby first-aid kit, they can ensure that the holiday is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
How was your first holiday with a baby? Share your experiences and tips in the comments 😊
