Terri Ramsey Beavers Going on a family vacation is something you should always strive for. It will be hard work to organize it, but it’s well worth it for the memories you’ll make and the fun you’ll have. If you’re normally at work and are busy around the house, being able to spend some real quality time with your baby or toddler is precious indeed.
You might be struggling to know what to pack, however. You don’t want to pack too much, but equally, you don’t want to forget anything either. It’s true you can buy things when you arrive at your destination, but do you really want to spend money you don’t have to spend or waste time searching around stores for items you have at home? This is why being organized when it comes to packing is so important. Read on to find out what you should take with you.
Plenty of Clothes
Babies and toddlers are messy. That’s a fact. No matter what they’re doing, from eating to playing (and sometimes even when they’re sleeping), they will make a mess. If you don’t want to constantly be doing laundry on your break away, make sure you pack enough clothes. Think about how often you might change your child at home and try to pack for that if possible. Although it’s good not to take too much stuff with you when you’re traveling, this is perhaps the one exception to the rule.
The Right Footwear
Of course, babies who are pre-walking age don’t need to have sturdy shoes; they just need to have their feet covered and kept warm if the weather is colder. However, if your little one is walking, or even if they’re just starting to make a move, having good shoes is a must.
The best option is to have their feet measured in a store, so you have the exact size you want – too big or too small will be very uncomfortable, and they will have a miserable time on your break, which means you’ll be miserable too.
Think about the type of vacation you’re going on and the weather. Will you need sandals or rubber boots, for example?
Baby Carrier
Some kind of baby carrier is going to be necessary if you are going on vacation with a baby or toddler. Even if you don’t intend to do a lot of walking, you’ll still need to go out at some point, and the better the carrier, the easier this will be.
It will depend on the age and size of your child as to what you choose, but for younger children, a car seat and stroller will be useful. Do plenty of research to make sure you’re choosing the best option for you. For example, you can learn how Doona baby strollers and car seats can simplify your life which could be just what you’re looking for.
Sunscreen
No matter where you are going, and no matter what the temperature or the weather predictions, it’s vital to take sunscreen with you. This needs to be safe for a baby’s skin, and ideally, it’s something you can use as well (otherwise, bring two types of sunscreen so you can be protected as well as your little one).
The sun’s UV rays can cause harm even on a cloudy day, so it’s good practice to wear sunscreen every time you go outside. The earlier you can instill this into your child, the better.