Traveling for the Holidays with a newborn? Here are some tips that will help you get there sanely and safely!

Are you traveling for the holidays with your newborn? Holidays are stressful enough, let us help you be prepared to get there in one piece!

1. GET YOUR BABY A PLANE TICKET. I can’t yell this loudly enough. You’re going to want the option to lay your baby down somewhere safe and clean to rest- Especially if the flight is long. If your baby is older they are likely already used to being confined in a carseat and will understand that you can’t hold them the entire time. It’s also much safer to have your baby strapped in than it is to have them in your arms. Most plane crashes are rough landings. It’s also recommended by the AAP.
2. Okay this is kind of 1.5, If getting your baby their own plane ticket isn’t in the budget, then invest in a comfortable carrier so that you can wear them. If your baby is under 4 months I strongly recommend a stretchy wrap like a Solly or a Moby. Older babies you may be more comfortable using a soft structured carrier like an Ergo or Lillebaby.
3. Make a plan. Does your airline have pre-boarding? What about a stroller-check? Do you need a special bag to check strollers or carseats? Are you guaranteed multiple seats next to each other?
4. Fly direct whenever possible. You know the pressure we feel in our ears on planes? Babies feel thet as well, and they can’t exactly chew gum to help! Going up and down multiple times is often a recipe for a miserable and uncomfortable baby. Tip: Try to plan a feeding for the way up and down. Sucking can provide relief to the pressure change.
5. Prepare for the worst. If you are formula feeding bring enough for a few extra bottles. Bring extra clothes, extra diapers, extra wipes, extra burp cloths. Bring extra snacks for you in case you’re stranded somewhere. And have everything you need WITH YOU!
6. Documents. Have copies of identification and immunizations for you and your baby, as well as photos on your phone.
7. Products to make travel easier:
   • A portable soundmachine
   • A hand pump and a bottle if you’re breastfeeding, just in case [keep this with you in your carry on]
   • Pacifier cleaner wipes and all the pacifiers
8. Products to make travel safer
   • That wrap again. Keeping babies close can help ward off strangers from wanting to see or possibly touch the baby.
   • Hand sanitizer. Clean off hands before handling your baby or their things.
9. Are you breastfeeding? If so, stay hydrated! It’s so easy to forget to drink, and airports and trains can have very dry air. If you aren’t hydrated, your baby is more likely to be hungry and fussy too.
10. Pack for the weather. If you are traveling far North or South, it could be your baby’s first experience with a different climate than what they were born into. It may take them time to adjust.