Traveling with little ones can be both exciting and stressful! We often get asked in our classes, about the things to consider when traveling with a little one. Here are some of the most commonly forgotten considerations and helpful hints, you need to think about before hopping on that plane with baby!
Vaccinations
Parents sometimes delay vaccinations for their babies, if the scheduled time falls within their travel dates. Some vaccinations are better brought forward than delayed! Speak to your GP about both scheduled and recommended vaccinations before your trip – pending where you are traveling, there could be additional vaccinations needed.
Babes on planes
Here are some specific considerations when flying with a baby, that you may not have thought of;
- Where will the baby safely sleep? Make sure you look into a bassinet option on the plane.
- Avoid passing hot drinks and food over baby.
- During take-off and landing, your little one may need to be fed or given a dummy to suck on, to help their ears adjust to the pressure changes.
- Make sure you check the restrictions for liquids – the last thing you want to be doing is tipping out medicines or formula before getting on the plane! Note: If there is a prescribed medication your little one needs, be sure to see your GP for a note so that you aren’t caught out!
Pack it up
This is more than just popping your First Aid Kit in the luggage (which you need to do!). What else could you consider?
A thermometer? Pain relief? Antihistamines? A microwave steriliser for bottles? Nasal spray? Bottle warmer/flask? Nappy rash cream?
Imagine what different scenarios you could face with a little one, and pack for them! There may not be an easy way to obtain specific medications when overseas – and some may not be available at all.
This extends to you as well – imagine if you (and a partner you may be traveling with) become unwell and need to look after your baby in a foreign location, while sick – make sure you have an oral rehydration solution (in powder form will be easier to pack and travel with!), and any other medications you may need to help get you all through.
Know how to seek medical help, wherever you are
This is an important one! You must know how to seek medical help wherever you are traveling
- Take note of nearby hospitals and medical services from where you are staying and traveling
- Know emergency numbers. Here is a list of Emergency numbers around the world
- Make sure you know the country, city, and street name of where you are staying at, and know how to find your current location using Google Maps.
- When traveling abroad, you can make it as easy as possible for emergency services, by learning how to say the name of your country and your native tongue in the local language.
Travel Insurance
This one can easily slip your mind when you are trying to organise a trip and pack for your little family! Make sure you have updated any necessary insurance.
And lastly… book a class with us before you go! Leave for your trip feeling confident and prepared with the skills of baby + child first aid.
