As a new mom, the prospect of traveling during the holiday season can be overwhelming. I know, I’ve been there! I’m a mom of 6 and I’ve traveled pretty much non-stop with my babes. Between packing, planning, and running the day-to-day needs of a family, it’s easy to feel stressed about an upcoming trip. But with a few tips and a little extra planning, you can navigate the challenges of traveling with a newborn, and make your trip a lot more fun. Make sure you leave a comment at the bottom and share any advice you’ve picked up from your own adventures.
- Pack light and smart for your trip with a newborn
As a new mom, you’re likely to be packing more than ever before, especially if you’re traveling with your baby. But it’s important to remember that less is more when it comes to packing. Try to pack only the essentials, such as diapers, wipes, bottles, formula, and a few changes of clothing for both you and your baby. If you’re breastfeeding, you may also want to bring a breast pump and a cooler bag to store any expressed milk.
In addition to packing smart, it’s also a good idea to pack light. This will make it easier to move around the airport and to fit everything into the overhead compartment on the plane. If you’re concerned about running out of supplies while you’re away, you can always purchase items like diapers and wipes at your destination. If you’re heading to a family’s house for the Holiday, you can ship necessities ahead of time.
Holiday Travel Packing List:
| Item | Ship Ahead | Pack |
| Diapers | ✓ | Only a few |
| Wipes | ✓ | 1 pack |
| Diaper cream | ✓ | |
| Baby lotion | ✓ | |
| Baby powder | ✓ | |
| Baby bottles | ✓ | Only 1 |
| Formula (if not breastfeeding) | ✓ | Limited amount |
| Breast pump (if breastfeeding) | ✓ | |
| Cooler bag for expressed milk (if breastfeeding) | ✓ | |
| Extra pacifiers (if your baby uses them) | ✓ | |
| Burp cloths | ✓ | |
| Blankets | ✓ | |
| A few changes of clothing for both you and your baby | ✓ | |
| Bibs | ✓ | |
| A hat and socks for your baby (depending on the destination and weather) | ✓ | |
| Sunscreen (if needed) | ✓ | |
| Insect repellent (if needed) | ✓ | |
| A car seat (if traveling by car) | ✓ | |
| A stroller (if needed) | ✓ | |
| A carrier or sling (if you prefer to have your hands free) | ✓ | |
| A play yard or portable crib (if your accommodation doesn’t provide one) | ✓ | |
| A small first aid kit with items like a thermometer, pain reliever, and a small supply of any prescribed medications for your baby | ✓ | |
| Entertainment for the trip, such as books, toys, or a tablet with age-appropriate content | ✓ | |
| Documents (Driver’s License, Birth Certificate, Tickets and confirmation numbers). |
- Plan to be as flexible as possible during your travel days.
When it comes to traveling with a newborn, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and be as organized as possible, but remember that plans will change and that’s ok. The things that are easy to control will be booking flights and accommodations well in advance, renting a car (if needed), and making sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your baby’s passport or birth certificate. It’s also a good idea to research your destination beforehand, so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
However, it’s important to remember that things don’t always go according to plan, especially when you have a newborn. Be prepared for the unexpected, and try to be as flexible as possible. This may mean changing your plans or altering your schedule to accommodate your baby’s needs.
- Choose the right mode of transportation for your Christmas trip with a newborn
When it comes to traveling with a newborn, the mode of transportation you choose can make a big difference. If you’re flying, consider booking a non-stop flight to minimize the time you spend in the air. You may also want to consider booking a seat with extra legroom or upgrading to a premium class, which may offer more amenities and space for your baby.
If you’re driving to your destination, plan your route in advance and make sure you have all the necessary supplies, such as car seats, strollers, and bottles. It’s also a good idea to take breaks every few hours to feed, change, and soothe your baby.
- Prioritize your health and well-being while traveling with a newborn during the holiday season
It’s especially important to prioritize your health and well-being when you’re traveling with a newborn. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and taking care of yourself. This will help you stay energized and better able to handle the challenges of traveling with a baby.
You may also want to consider taking some basic precautions to protect yourself and your baby from illness. This may include washing your hands frequently and stocking up on all those healthy foods and supplements. When you travel, you’ll be exposed to a whole new world of germs, so you’ll want to make sure your family’s immune system is ready and good to go.
- Don’t forget to have fun!
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your holiday trip with your newborn. There is nothing like the magic of experiencing a baby’s first Christmas. Sometimes traveling with kids is a little stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to create new memories and traditions with the people you love the most. So try to relax, grab a glass of champagne (’tis the season 😉 ) and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.