There comes a time when the decision to multiply is made. Having children is a life-changing experience. Gone are the days of less responsibility, replaced by dirty diapers, late nights and moments of pure joy. Of course, having little ones will also change the way you travel. Traveling with infants can be daunting, but it is possible. Not only do you have to worry about a baby on top of travel planning, but of all the small details that go along with taking an infant traveling. Yes, it may mean deciding to travel a bit differently than the days of roughing it without any itinerary. That said, traveling with infants will add a new dynamic to what it means to leave home and could turn you into a travel expert.
Traveling with infants: searching for the right location
Wwoofing in the Canadian Rockies, backpacking through Southeast Asia, or cycling South America may have to be put on the backburner when traveling with an infant. Taking the baby along for the trip means that you will have to find a destination that includes all of the amenities; one that is baby friendly. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean staying at an all-inclusive resort. Booking a room with clean running water, ample electricity with access to emergency help – if needed – and relatively easy access – think stroller – should work just fine. Of course, steering clear of war zones or natural disasters is also highly recommended.
Traveling with infants: planning for the plane
It is more complicated than you think. Having a baby equals having more suitcases to carry. Bottles, pampers, clothes – for all weather possibilities – a stroller, and more pampers will make traveling with infants a logistical challenge. Remember those pesky laws that prohibit you from carrying more than 100ml of liquid on the plane? Well, breast milk also counts. Contact the airline well ahead of the trip to find out what you can and what you cannot take with you. Large items such as strollers will usually have to be checked-in at the ‘oversize’ counter. Also speak with the airline about optimal seating with the baby. Some airlines still have ‘baby beds’ on board. If not, request seating with additional leg room.
Traveling with infants: public displays of emotion
Traveling with infants on a plane will be no different than visits to the local restaurant. It is inevitable that, at some point, your baby will cry its lungs out on the plane; and it could go on for a very long time. As expected, other travelers will be annoyed. Nasty looks will be thrown your way and requests will be made to flight attendants to change seats. What should you do? Nothing. Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed. Babies cry, and every person on the plane with you was once one too. For a remedy try taking a walk around the plane, baby in arms, to calmly sooth the distressed little one. Also be prepared for landings, as the pressure often upsets infants the most.
Traveling with infants: travel insurance
There may have been a time when you traveled and thought: ‘why do I need travel insurance. I’ll just save the money for beer.’ Sound familiar? After the baby arrives purchasing travel insurance is no option. Visiting a hospital in a foreign land can be incredibly expensive. The last thing you want is to be sent back to the hotel by a doctor refusing to see your child.
