Traveling with my daughter Stone is always an adventure it’s a combination of work and play. Traveling with babies can be a learning experience, especially when there are long-haul flights and jet lag involved, but I’ve picked up a few tricks to make the whole process less stressful. Here are my top tips for traveling with a baby, including what to pack and how to prepare.
Jetset Style
Being comfortable is key but you also want to look smart and stylish on a flight. I’ll be wearing pieces from my CRK x VIMMIA capsule collection which are practical while still being chic, pairing the cozy Stevie Jumper with my oversized cotton High Waisted Sweatpants for ultimate comfort. I’ll complete the look with my luxe Outback Convertible Coat.
Stone’s Style
It’s always worth bringing at least two to three changes of clothing, in case of any unexpected spills and messes on the flight. I’ll be styling Stone in this snuggly Alpaca sweater and jogger set from Bacabuche, with these Misha & Puff leggings and cardigan as a back-up option.
Packing Vice
Cozigo Bassinet and Stroller Cover
This clever, multi-functional cover works first over an airplane bassinet and then as a shade for your stroller when you get to your location.
E Marie Travel Blanket
Avoid those flimsy airplane blankets by bringing your own – this cozy one by E Marie also doubles up as a shawl or an elegant scarf.
The BabyZen Yoyo+ Stroller
This compact cabin stroller folds down into a backpack, which can then be stored in the overhead bin on flights – meaning you no longer have to check in your stroller.
Rilla Alexander Touchwords Books
Keeping kids entertained on flights is key, but instead of sitting them in front of a screen why not give them one of these Touchword books instead? Educational and beautiful, they’re guaranteed to keep them amused for hours.
Cosco Scenera Next Car Seat
It’s worth investing in a lightweight convertible car seat for the trip – this one from Cosco Kids weighs just 10 pounds.
Quick Snacks to Park
Once Upon A Farm Cold Pressed Pouches
Jennifer Garner’s baby food smoothies are easy to eat on the go and are packed full of nutrients, including good fats like avocado, flax and hemp seeds.
Happy Baby Organics Superfood Puffs
These handy snacks are enriched with vitamins and minerals, melt easily in your baby’s mouth and encourage self-feeding.
Homemade Vegetable Medley
I always pack a container of my own vegetable medley, which I make at home with butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, olive oil, vanilla and cinnamon, all baked in the oven. It’s one of Stone’s favourites.
Tips
Prepare
Plan as much as you can in advance, from what to pack, what to eat to how you’re going to entertain them on the flight. Be prepared to be flexible – parenting-on-the-go doesn’t always go precisely as planned.
Try to organize flights during naptime – Wherever possible, book flights that coincide with your baby’s regular sleep schedule. Keeping any disruptions to their normal sleep schedule to a minimum will make traveling more enjoyable for everyone. Choose your seat carefully – if your baby weighs between 20-30 pounds try to reserve a bulkhead seat so you can make full use of the bassinet.
Consider using a baby equipment rental service – There’s only so much you can take with you on a long-haul flight, but there may be certain pieces that you know your baby won’t be able to live without. Think about using a baby hire service like Baby’s Away or Air Tots, where everything from high chairs, cribs and play boxes can be delivered to your final destination.
Stick to your usual time zone
If you’re planning a quick getaway, consider keeping your baby on a schedule that’s as close to your original time zone as possible. If you’ll be away for a longer period of time, babies do normally naturally adjust to the local time zone after around three days.
Get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry TSA
Signing up for these services makes it much quicker to get through airport security which means shorter lines, faster screening and an easier experience at customs when traveling internationally.