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When is it safe to travel with a newborn by car, plane or train? Some people find it harder traveling with a newborn; others find it easier than traveling with toddlers or older kids. You may hang around home for some months after the baby is born. From diaper changes to feeding, a newborn needs constant attention. Additionally, a new baby’s immune system is not fully developed, posing a risk of getting sick.
However, newborns are not as fragile as presumed. Traveling with a newborn requires careful planning. Here are things you should know about newborn travel.
When is it safe for traveling with a newborn by plane?
Your baby may be set to fly at least two days after birth. However, some airlines might insist on waiting for the baby to be at least two weeks old. In this case, you may be required to bring a form from your doctor indicating your baby is fit to fly. Be sure to check with the airline before booking.
However, just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s right. Pediatricians do not recommend flying with a newborn under one-month-old. Exposing your newborn to many people will pose a risk of contracting infections.
Postpartum rest and a stable environment for the baby right after birth is essential. Temperature changes, pressures, and noise could be uncomfortable for the infant.
Things to do before traveling with a newborn by plane
• Passport or Identification Proof
If you are traveling internationally, your baby needs a passport. You will require the baby’s passport photo with your infant’s eyes open, looking straight ahead. Tip: You could lay your baby on their back on white sheets and have his/her head adjusted to look up Domestic flights may ask for identification proof since you are flying with a baby on lap. Ensure you submit all passport details in time to avoid cancelling your trip.
• Vaccines
Babies need to be vaccinated against possible childhood diseases that are preventable before traveling abroad. Some diseases that are nonexistent in developing countries could break out in developing areas. Immunization is vital, especially if your baby will interact with local children.
Your doctor will advise on the vital immunizations depending on various factors, including the destination, health, and age of the baby, and the nature of travel. If your travel plan is urgent, you might need to speed up things a bit by shortening the periods between doses. It works, although the immunity may not be optimal. If extra doses are required, they can be administered later.
Checklist of items to pack when traveling with a newborn
Ensuring you have everything your baby could need is one of the factors of a stress-free trip. You might be surprised by the amount of stuff you need more, so if it’s your first time to travel with a newborn. Here’s traveling with a newborn checklist and tips on packing.
• Diapers– You may count one for each hour in transit and a few extras in case there is a delay.
• Changing pad- you could buy reusable or disposable changing pads at the baby store
• Swaddles or blankets- you will need to shade your baby or cover yourself and the baby when breastfeeding.
• Lots of wipes
• Diaper rash cream
• Changing clothes for you and your baby
• Ziplock bags for soiled clothes
• A couple of pacifiers
• Some toys and books
• Baby Food or formula if the baby does not breastfeed
• Snacks to boost your energy levels
• Baby wash, disinfecting gel, baby lotion, and baby lotion
• Water
• First-aid kit
• Breast pump if need be
• Extra set of bottles
• Nightlight
• Front carrier
• Car seat
• Collapsible stroller
• Playmat
Here are some tips to make your packing more efficient:
• Start packing several days before your travel date. Make a list and assemble all the items on a table
• Use a waterproof diaper bag
• Tuck two extra outfits for your baby and a shirt for you in the carry-on bag just in case of spills and leaky diapers
• Pack toiletries in zip-lock bags or resealable plastic bags
• Pack the each baby’s outfit in a zipped bag to avoid hunting for tiny shorts or socks
• Have your baby’s doctor on the emergency dial in case of an emergency, or you need clarification
• Bring your charger and a camera
• The regulation on liquid limits does not apply to formula, breast milk, or juice. You may carry extra accessories like frozen gel parks and icepacks in the carry-on.
Tips for Flying with a Newborn
• Book a Good Seat
If your newborn still sleeps in the bassinet, take the bulkhead seats. Most airlines will provide infant bassinets when you tell them you are traveling with a newborn. After takeoff, the aircrew may attach the basket to the wall so your baby can lie flat as you sit back and read a book or listen to music.
• Give yourself enough time to avoid rushing
This is not a good time to cut close. Getting through the airport with plenty of time on your hands will help the baby settle much better for the flight. If there is a need to change seats, you will have enough time to do so.
• Confirm what is charged and what is checked for free
Depending on the airline, car seats and strollers are free to check. Using a baby carrier will help you get through security quickly. You won’t have to use the X-ray machine. They will probably only use the metal detector and check for any explosives.
• Ask for Help
It may be hectic juggling your baby and getting your luggage through the machine. TSA agents may be of help in this situation. Smile and be kind! Befriend the flight attendants. They are more experienced with handling newborns during flights
• Use a wine bag
A wine bag allows you to organize the stuff you may require during your flight without taking up too much space. This way, you will have more space for movement.
• Nurse when taking off and landing
To help with the pressure, the baby’s ears, get the jaw moving. If you don’t breastfeed, you may use a pacifier or use a bottle.
• By the window or by the aisle?
If your baby is still tiny, sit right by the window for extra privacy. If the baby is active and needs constant movement, sit by the aisle.
Tips for Traveling with a Newborn by Car
• Your baby should ride at the back and never in the front seat. If the car features bottom and top anchors for the child’s safety seat, the middle of the back seat is the safest spot.
• Confirm the car seat has been installed correctly before you drive off. The harness should fit your baby securely and snugly.
• Make use of removable shade screens. Babies are delicate and should be protected against heat and the sun. Peel-and-stick shades are safer than those that use suction cups.
• If you are using public transit, bring the car seat to maximize your baby’s safety
A stroller is essential when traveling with your baby. The best travel stroller is compact, lightweight, and collapsible for portability. Sun protection offered and the ability to recline are other factors to consider for the best travel stroller system. The following are some of the best strollers designed for travel and meet most airlines baggage allowances
• GB Pockit Lightweight Stroller
It is the most compact and the smallest stroller in the market currently. It weighs around 9.5lbs and measures (11.8*7*13.8) inches when folded down. It does not feature straps or a bag to carry. It has a small pouch at the bottom to store small items. This stroller has no recline option and is suitable for babies above six months of age. The sun canopy is not very protective from the sun
The UPPABaby G-Lite Denny 2018 is an updated design of the G-Lite. It weighs 11lbs and is reclinable. The seat features a breathable mesh. Its basket is a reasonable size. It has a large UPF canopy to shield your baby from the sun. It can comfortably hold up to55lbs. It has a cup holder. Compared to other strollers, its recline is smaller
• Summer Infant 3D Lite stroller
This midway budget stroller weighs 13lbs. Its ability to recline to an almost flat position is impressive. It comes with a carry strap for easy transportation. It can hold up to 50lbs. It has ample storage; underneath, a pocket on its back and a cup holder. The strollers legs may dangle if your child is tall
It weighs 13lbs. It comes with a strap and a storage bag to help you carry it around without hassle. It is sturdy and may be used as an everyday stroller. It has a rain cover, a sun canopy, multi recline, and enough under-seat storage. It functions well, even in bumpy areas. It falls in the high-end market. The BabyZen YoYo + is suitable for babies aged six months and above.
Use these baby travel tips when traveling with a newborn. Share your outcomes in the comment section below.
