What to Pack?
Pack the essentials and pack as light as you can! There’s nothing worse than juggling babies in one hand and a mountain of bags in the other. Firstly, forget the kitchen sink, the 32 soft toys (but he loves them ALL!), and the 10 pairs of sandals (us? never!), and keep your packing to a minimum. Cut down your clothes to a selection of key items that you can mix or match. Take clothing that is easy to wash and won't get too creased. If you're going somewhere with washing facilities, that's great. If not, it's always worth taking some hand wash with you just in case, (we all know what kids are like!)
Additional Packing Tips:
Essentials: Pack items such as nappies, wipes, and baby food in easy-to-reach places.
Entertainment: Bring a few small toys and books to keep your child entertained during travel.
Health & Safety: Don’t forget to pack a small first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.
What About Flying?
Flying with small children can instill fear into the bravest of us, but don’t panic it’s not as bad as you think! Follow these steps and you’ll be fine…
Check Airline Policies: Different carriers vary on how they transport equipment and what they'll do in the event of lost or damaged luggage. If you have a special travel bag for your pram, they are more likely to pay out in the event of damage.
Time Your Flights Well: Try and time your flight around the time your baby sleeps best. That ensures a peaceful journey for you and other passengers! Let's hope your child's peak sleeping time is in line with the cheapest available flights!
Get Ready to Feed, Suckle, and Entertain: Babies and toddlers may need food or a bottle to soothe them during flights, particularly during take-off and landing to avoid sore ears. Bigger kids will need a new iPad game, an entertaining book, or a favourite toy to keep them happy during longer flights.
Have a Plan B: It's important to have a "Plan B in everything". Extra nappies, a change of clothes, and a wraparound baby carrier should always go in your hand luggage in case your luggage is lost or your flight is delayed.
Additional Flying Tips
Seating Arrangements: Whenever possible, book seats that offer extra legroom or are located near the front of the plane for quicker boarding and disembarking.
Ear Protection: Consider bringing earplugs or earmuffs for older children to help with cabin pressure changes.
Accommodation?
Make sure you pick holiday accommodation which caters to small children and babies. Sometimes the all-inclusive holidays work out best as they offer a huge range of activities and refreshments, which usually work out cheaper than buying everything separately. Try and make sure the accommodation is near to places you want to visit. There’s nothing worse than having to travel for ages on other transport that will irritate baby!
Additional Accommodation Tips
Child-Friendly Amenities: Look for hotels that provide cribs, high chairs, and baby-proofed rooms.
Proximity to Attractions: Choose accommodations close to family-friendly attractions and amenities to minimize travel time and keep everyone happy.
Have Fun!
Lastly- have fun! If it’s your baby's first holiday you want them to enjoy it and make amazing memories you can look back on. It’s a special time for all the family-so be well prepared for anything and everything and you’re sure to have a fabulous time!
Final Tips for Fun
Capture the Moments: Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture those special moments.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your baby’s needs and moods. Flexibility will help ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
