Babies. They take a lot of you but they give back far, far more. They give you Dimpled smiles. Gurgly laughter. Complete trust. Instant joy. And some of the most memorable moments. And nothing adds to those moments like a well-deserved holiday. So please, please take one and do pack these tips when you do.
- Avoid overnight flights and embarrassing sights!
Just imagine, it’s 11 p.m. and your little toddler’s deafening scream hasn’t yet stopped – even after 2 hours of boarding the plane. And all the people on the flight are staring at you. Every mom’s worst nightmare, isn’t it? The trick to make it a dream holiday is to avoid overnight flights. Daytime is more Sunshiney and buoyant, making people chirpier, friendlier, warmer and most vitally, less sleepier and crankier.
2. Is the hotel/resort baby-ready?
Amie O’Shaughnessy, founder and managing editor of family vacation-planning resource Ciao Bambino Inc., says that separation for sleeping should be the top concern in choosing a hotel or resort when traveling with an infant. Even if you can’t afford suites or connected rooms, have some extra space or even a balcony so that they don’t feel claustrophobic. And always insist on a non-smoking floor. Proximity to restaurants and services is also helpful. “When they are young and more prone to crying, having a hotel that’s too intimate can increase stress,” O’Shaughnessy says. Baby-ready hotels will offer quality cribs and high chairs, but please make sure that you check whether your ‘kid-friendly’ hotels are actually kid-friendly. Read as many online reviews (from parents as you can).
3. Carry the comforts of home.
Your baby will find it easier to settle into a new place with objects that she’s familiar with. Her toys, bedding, favourite stuffed animal, even pillow or pillow case (in case of space scrunch). This will make your baby feel safe and at home.
4. One place at a time.
Since kids are at ease with known surroundings, plan a holiday that revolves around a single location rather than hopping from one place of lodging to another.
5. Downtime to up your baby’s energy.
Your baby may not be taking regular naps but remember travelling takes a toll on her. She may get much more tired than at home. So, when you’re planning an itinerary, avoid making strenuous plans such as touring a beautiful city for one full day. Babies will be less irritable when they’re given some quiet time – time to rest and rejuvenate. Offering your child 15 minutes of snuggle in soft swaddles or even singing your baby’s favourite tunes to her will make a lot of difference to your trip. And when it comes to bedtime, use the same routines you do at home, such as dinner, bath, etc.
And one last thing… Pack sun-screen lotion, dye-free towels and soft booties if going to a beach. And lots of woollens if going to the mountain. And don’t forget to apply baby-safe mosquito repellent lotion.
Ciao. Do upload those happy, happy photos in the comments below! Bon Voyage.
