TRICKS OF THE MAMA TRADE

B E A C H  R E - T R E A T

Travel tips for a sunny getaway with your little one

Oh sunshine – there’s just something about Vitamin D that puts everyone in great spirits.  Unfortunately in Ottawa, we’re not quite in the clear of the Winter blues.  While I feel we’re close to permanent warm weather, I’m not rushing to the tire shop just yet.  Ben and I have felt in somewhat of a rut lately with so much on the go so we decided last weekend on a whim to go somewhere we know will be sunny and hot.

Distance is always a factor when travelling with Calvin so we picked somewhere we could fly to in less than five hours (so as not to miss TWO naps in one day); and the lucky winner is…Florida!  While a trip planned less than a week away from our date of departure would normally only call for a late night pack job the day before, packing for baby and myself entails much more preparation!  I will note that Ben and I have travelled to Florida once before when Calvin was only two months old and I over-packed BIG TIME so here’s how I have simplified the process this go-around:

1. I get a hat – you get a hat – we all get hats! Every piece of clothing I pack for myself, I pack one for baby – ONE.  Clothing can be easily purchased at our destination should something mysteriously disappear so a selection of 5 different chapeaus isn’t necessary for baby or myself.

2. When in doubt – it goes in the checked bag.  I could easily spend hours going through our airline’s baggage guidelines and even then, I’m likely to accidentally pack my contact solution in my carry-on.  No one likes to make it all the way through the security line with baby only to find out you either need to A) go all the way back to the check-in counter to re-pack your luggage or B) throw out $60.00+ worth of essential items.  If you’re unsure of where to put it…play it safe and pack it in your checked bag (sidenote: if the airline loses your luggage…you didn’t get this advice from me). 

3. Sun safety is key! My pearly white skin burns easily enough but Calvin’s skin is even more fragile at this stage.  It is absolutely essential for me to keep him out of harm’s way while laying beach/pool side.  I make sure all his beach gear is UVA/UVB protected – check your tags/labels!  Baby needs a hat, sunglasses, rash guard, sun screen (6 months +), play tent etc.  While sometimes it’s unavoidable to keep baby entirely out of the sun, you can’t win mother-of-the-year with a sunburned tot on day two of your beach retreat.

4. Be mindful of flight duration.  Most babies typically don’t do well on long flights, and mine is no exception.  A substantial component of packing is ensuring that baby has everything he/she needs during the flight.  If you forget to pack toys (as noise-free as possible), books, a naptime blanket, and/or a baby-friendly drinking cup – you’re in for quite the flight!  See also: my post on flying with baby below.

5. Pool vs. Ocean…This requires a little bit of research on my end.  On our previous trip to Florida, we stayed at a beautiful spot right on the beach….with one of the choppiest shorelines I’ve ever seen.  Needless to say, it was not safe for baby and we spent most of our time by the pool.  Everything is online these days so check out the beach you’ll be visiting before you start packing.  If the beach won’t work for baby and you need to lay low by the pool instead, consider bringing along a floatable device that can help your little one enjoy the water with you.  If the beach looks calm and safe, consider bringing along a compact tent to help keep baby out of the sun.  

6. Diapers, diapers and MORE diapers.  This is always my dilemma when travelling anywhere.  Do I pack diapers or buy them at my destination?  Here’s my best advice: pack enough to get to your destination + half-a-day’s worth and buy the rest after you’ve arrived.  Diapers tend to take up A LOT of space and I have yet to travel somewhere that makes finding them a scavenger hunt.  Unless you’re headed to Timbuktu, save yourself the space and buy diapers upon arrival.

7. Babywear….stroller….or both? If you’re anything like me, you fully appreciate all the benefits of wearing your tot on your hip as opposed to pushing your stroller through shops and restaurants while repeatedly banging into chairs and racks.  Here’s the thing: at some point, you will want that stroller (how else are you supposed to load up those suitcases with new goodies for the way home??).  What’s more, your lovely partner in crime probably won’t want to lug your bags through the airport while you only have baby to carry – strollers always help lighten the load.   Do yourself a favour and don’t contemplate this one no matter how long your trip is; bring both (I recommend a Wildbird sling – its light and compact even for a carry-on bag).

8. Crib sheets can be a luxury… Although I’m not quite sure why, many times Ben and I have opened the door to our hotel room and there is a mini-crib awaiting our little guy…with one fitted sheet on it.  I realize all babies are different ….and that you’re really not supposed to give them additional blankets at all, but my kiddo likes to be warm in his slumber.  I always stash an extra crib sheet and blanket in my luggage for this very reason (note: hotel cribs are much smaller than average-sized cribs).   

9. Nap game.  As most mamas can understand and appreciate, keeping up a daily nap routine is fundamental to baby's calm and cool temperament.  Over-tired babies typically aren’t as fun!  While travel days tend to cause interference with at least one nap, try as much as possible to get baby back on track as soon as possible.  My little one always notices his different surroundings which can sometimes throw our schedule off a little bit as well.  My best advice is to persevere mama! Eventually he/she will return to a normal routine wherever your travels may take you. 

10. No, this trip won’t be just like your pre-baby trips…You probably remember long afternoons on the beach sipping cocktails and enjoying the peaceful sound of each wave rolling into the shore, maybe even whilst enjoying your favourite book.  Now that baby is in tow, things may be a bit different than any trip pre-baby that you can remember; that being said, you can definitely enjoy yourself even though things may not be as peaceful.  Ben and I frequently take turns playing with baby so that one of us can get some rest and relaxation while the other parent entertains.  Additionally, we try to book a hotel room with a balcony so that we can enjoy some peaceful patio time together while baby naps (note: pack your baby monitor to keep an eye on baby). 

Lastly, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I am no pro!  I learn as I go and I’m sure there will be a new lesson during this vacation (which I will be sure to pass along upon my return).  Wherever your travels with baby may take you, try to relax and enjoy the ride.  Things will be different and you may hit some bumps and turns along the way but you’re creating wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. 

  

P L A N E S , T R A I N S  & ...

If we take a look at the facts, at some point in your mama career, you will have to travel with an infant.  While I am by no means an expert on traveling with a little, I’ve had my fair share of flights and long car rides…enough that I feel adequate to share some of my life-saving/embarrassment-saving tips.

Firstly, if you’re traveling by car and google maps tells you your trip will take “4 hours” – double it.  Baby has to eat at some point…and often the feed break will come with a bathroom break for mom & dad, maybe a gas fill-up, and what the heck – throw in some sandwiches and hot beverages while we’re stopped!  Congrats and welcome to parenthood! Your usual 15 minute break has just become an hour-long pause in your already lengthy voyage.  You may even encounter points along the trip where baby just does not want to get back into that car seat for the fourth time (especially if your name is Calvin…).  Here are my best tips for making travel by car, a little easy-er:

1.    Don’t rush it! Travel at baby’s pace.  If you’re making a long trip (i.e. longer than 2.5 hours) plan a stop with relatives, lengthy walk around the mall, hotel stay etc.  Us parents don’t like being stuck in the same seat for hours on end, just imagine being strapped in that car seat – not fun.

2.    Keep baby company – When you’re not in the car, chances are you’re spending most of your day within sight of baby.  I find when we’re in the car, many times my little guy will stay much calmer if Ben or I sit in the back with him.  This helps prevent a crying fit and keeps him entertained (play LOTS of peek-a-boo).

3.     Try to stay safe – I’ve been tempted so many times to sneak Calvin out of his car seat when we’re stuck in a traffic jam in the middle of the highway.  Its absolute torture hearing your baby cry and you can’t help them because the next exit is 20+ kilometres away.  If baby is having an absolute meltdown, pull off safely to the side of the road or try distraction mechanisms (books with bright pictures work great!).

4.    When all else fails…food – Just like us parents when someone waves a chocolate bar in our face, kiddos generally respond well to food!  If baby is old enough to eat solids/drink water or juice, pack a few easy-to-open pouches of baby’s favourite food and his/her favourite sippy cup.  Snack breaks generally help keep baby happy longer.

Travelling by air? This can sometimes be an easier or more difficult trek.  I frequently have to travel alone with Cal via plane to visit his dad/grandparents and I’ve had as many good trips as I have not so good trips.  If you can travel with your partner in a row all to yourselves – this is key to a good trip (always approach flight crew ahead of time to see if they can switch your seating if available).  Here are my tips for making your flight endurable:

1.   Pack according to airline guidelines (they’re all online) – This is a big one, especially if you’re doing carry-on only (my favourite!).  Different airlines have different restrictions (acceptable stroller size, what can/cannot go through airline security scan, how much breastmilk you can bring on board etc.).  During some flights I’ve been able to gate-check my GIANT travel system (car seat + stroller) without any qualms.  During other flights – I’ve ended up in a hostile argument with the man/woman at the check-in counter.  Save yourself the grief and make sure you’re packing correctly beforehand. 

2.   Ask for assistance (if you need it) – Even when I try to pack as light as humanly possible for Cal and I (often forgetting my own socks, pajamas etc.) I still find myself loaded down with bags, blankets, coats, scarves… it’s not easy to carry it all! In my experience, there are some great folks out there who kindly offer to hold your baby, your luggage or offer to fold up your stroller for you at the gate.  However, on some occasions those generous offers of help don’t come around and airline staff are hit or miss.  Bottom line: if you need help, ask an airline attendant.  Even if they do it begrudgingly, they will hold your screaming child while you stow your luggage in the overhead bins.

3.   Arrive well in advance – This goes without saying for any airline travel, but especially with an infant.  Calvin has had full on meltdowns in line for the check-in counter and I’ve had to step out of the line we just waited 30 minutes in to feed him on a bench.  Arriving early also gives you time to change him/her before the flight (since drive to the airport + check in/security + quick feed probably took you atleast 1.5 hours), grab a bottle of water for the flight, and calm baby down before boarding.  Baby can feel mommy’s stress so it’s important you both board in a peaceful state of mind.

4.   Don’t be afraid to nurse on board – I’ve been on a few flights where the attendants have actually encouraged nursing on the way up/descent as opposed to “burping baby” position.  While it may sometimes be uncomfortable to nurse in such a tight space next to an unpleasant soul (or the person could be very nice and friendly also!), it will help with baby’s temperament. 

5.  Wait until everyone else has de-boarded before de-boarding with baby – If you’re one of those people who was used to standing up and grabbing your luggage from the overhead bins as soon as the wheels hit the pavement, travelling with baby is different.  While it’s not always fun to be the last person off the plane, it’s worth it!  Rather than having to quickly round up all of your personal belongings + baby while the people behind you sigh deeply and shoot you looks of aggravation, just wait it out and de-board in harmony.

As for trains…I have not yet braved the journey with an infant.  I can’t imagine it would be easy but some of the tips above may apply.  Try them out if you’re planning to travel by rail.

I will likely add to this post as Calvin gets older and I learn new ways of keeping him content but this should give you a great start! While many of these tips may seem like no-brainers, traveling with baby as opposed to just you and your partner is VASTLY different and therefore these small reminders are warranted.

What are your travel tricks to keeping baby happy? I would love to hear your thoughts!