TRAVELING WITH A BABY

Carry a breast pump
Even if you are breastfeeding exclusively, it is important to pack your breast pump in your diaper bag. Airports can be highly stressful and with a breast pump, you can always have a serving of breast milk to calm your baby down. Carry it in your diaper bag or carry on to prevent it from breaking.

Disposable chucks pads
Disposable chuck pads are easier to clean when changing diapers. Furthermore, most changing rooms are germ infested, so try and stay away from them.

Pacifier clip
Pacifier clips will keep your pacifier in place so that you don’t lose it when you need it the most.

Medical kit
Fill your medical kit with essentials such as infant Tylenol (for discomfort), wipes,  teething single-use drops, band-aids, Neosporin or anything else you think your baby might need.  Before you sit down, use your antibacterial wipes to wipe down everything around you especially if your baby is handsy.

A car seat or umbrella stroller
If you are bringing a stroller, detach the base so that it can fit through the screening machine at security. Remember to get to the airport early so as to check in your gear.

Wear slip-on shoes
Slip-on shoes are easier to take on and off than the ones that have to be tied or zipped up. Bear in mind that you will be holding your baby as you go through security hence ensure that your shoes will not overcomplicate the process.

Don’t settle right awayBecause you will be trapped and restless for a long time in one space with yourbbaby, try not to sit down immediately you board. Stand by the lavatory as you bounce your baby before you have to sit. You might also have to walk your baby up and down the aisle if he or she is upset.

Bring plenty of snacks
Be sure to bring plenty of snacks for yourself of your baby where necessary. Chocolate, candy, protein bars, trail mix or jerky are great options for snacks. Remember that you may have to run around before you can board, which means that you may not get time to eat before boarding.

Birth certificate
If you are traveling locally, a birth certificate may not be required. However, international flights often ask for a baby’s birth certificate. If you do not want to carry it around, you can take a picture on your phone to tablet for easy identification.