Four hacks to make a travelling baby a happy baby

The holiday season is almost upon us, and as much as you are eager to quickly stuff the luggage in the boot and get your family on the way to a much-needed getaway, your baby is going to need a little added care.

If you think road trips can be long and uncomfortable for you, imagine what it will be like for your newborn or infant. They say travelling with a baby is like being the roadie for a musician; it’s all about carrying things, and the attention is always on them. If you are prepared, there is nothing to worry about, but there are a few tricks you can put up your sleeves.

Here are four hacks to make a travelling baby a happy baby:

1. Pack enough clothing: Depending on where you’re going and for how long, it always pays to have clothes that will cater for all occasions. Few road trips go by where your baby doesn’t mess themselves just a little bit. Also, babies are sensitive to changes in temperature. Even if it’s a hot summer day, an afternoon thundershower can turn the air from hot to icy in a matter of minutes. A clothing checklist helps. Don’t forget bibs, blankets, and lots of babygrows.
2. Remember comfort items: As you may be on the road for a long time, your baby may start to feel uncomfortable and out of their comfort zone. This is quite literally out of their comfort zone as that place is generally home. Make sure to pack their favourite comfort items such as toys, blankets, or pillows to make them feel comfortable. If these items are associated with bedtime, then it may even help soothe them to sleep quicker which can be a real godsend for mommy or daddy in the backseat.
3. Make frequent stops: Babies are prone to getting uncomfortable and agitated if they are stuck in one place, sitting for an extended period of time. If you are going on a road trip, then you must plan and ensure there are plenty of safe places to stop and walk around a bit – every bit of fresh air helps too. This will help when you suddenly discover that a nappy change is needed.
4. Keep baby dry and comfortable: Speaking of nappies, a nappy isn’t just a nappy. Your baby must be wearing one that not only maximises comfort but is also easy for you to change, whether in the car seat or the confines of an airplane bathroom. Consider using pull up nappy pants. If your baby is already walking, you could try a standing change, which is super easy with nappy pants. Pampers has a whole range of nappy pants that make it easy to tear the sides and pull the nappy away while your baby is standing. No changing table is required. Then after you have cleaned any mess on their bottom you can have them step into a new pair of nappy pants.