How to Care for a Newborn When Traveling
Traveling with a newborn is no easy task, especially when they’re very young. You should ideally wait up to three months before going on a trip with a baby, but sometimes you don’t have that option. Here are some tips to help you take care of your newborn when traveling.
How to care for a newborn when traveling
Keep your baby safe
Try to avoid feeding your baby while you fly or travel because it can be harmful if there is a lot of movement. He can get dizzy, and on a plane he could suffer from an earache if you feed him mid-flight.
You should also protect your baby from the sun, using curtains on the windows in vehicles. If you travel by plane, train or bus, they’ll likely already have curtains incorporated for passengers.
It is also necessary for you to have a first aid kit in your bag to treat minor ailments that may occur during the trip, such as infant paracetamol, treatment for colic, infant nose drops, teething gel, etc.
Also make sure your baby is seated in a properly installed car seat that is suitable for his weight and age. Adjust the seat belts correctly too.
Find a convenient way to feed your baby
When it comes to feeding your baby, breastfeeding is the best option. It does not require you to use any additional equipment and you will only have to place your baby comfortably to your chest so he can suckle and feed on your milk.
If you cannot breastfeed your baby for any reason and you use formula milk with a bottle, it is important that you take the formula you have made with you.
It’s even better to also have a portable bottle warmer. You can also choose to carry travel sterilizers with bottle cleaners to keep the bottle clean after use.
If your baby already eats solids, bring jarred food for your baby. Do not forget to take a bib, container and spoon in order to feed him in the most comfortable way possible.
Baby wipes will also be essential for cleaning any possible stains or vomit after eating. Water is essential for your baby to be well hydrated if he is already eating solid food.
Make your baby happy
Your baby should be well rested the day of your trip, so make sure he gets enough sleep the night before. A stroller or baby carrier will make the trip more comfortable for both of you, especially if your baby moves a lot.
Rattles, stuffed animals, teething rings and other toys will also help keep him entertained during a long trip.
A change of scenery can also help keep him calm, so try to walk around on the plane or train, or stop the car to walk a little bit every two hours.
After two hours of sitting, put your baby on a safe surface to give him the opportunity to move his legs. Hydration is also very important during the trip.
These are some tips to help you take care of your baby when traveling. Remember that it is also very important to take care of his personal hygiene.
Therefore, take a changing table to put on any surface, and change the diaper whenever necessary. Do not let a dirty diaper sit too long because it may cause discomfort.