Traveling with a baby can be a lot of fun. However, it can be a little difficult to know what to expect, which is why we have compiled these top 10 tips to help you get the most out of your travels.
For many, the anticipation of travel becomes almost more enjoyable than the journey itself. But for trips with children, you need to prepare a little more carefully, and we will be happy to help you with this!
Our baby went on his first trip when he was under six months old. Now he is almost two, and we have already visited several countries and traveled by different modes of transport. And before each trip, like any mother, I think about the problems that may arise. However, having some experience of independent travel with a child behind my back, I can highlight a few key points that need to be taken care of in advance. Read more here.
So, what every parent should worry about before the trip:
1. Documents
I have heard more than once that one of the parents forgot some documents for the baby. Therefore, on our travels, I take the birth certificate of the child, the passports of all family members, insurance policies, and notarized permission. Although we all have the same last name, the border guards may have questions, and it is better to be prepared for anything.
2. Medical Insurance
According to the rules, everyone who crosses the border should have a medical insurance document with it. However, we always take out an insurance policy for the child. When choosing an insurance company, be guided by the reviews of friends you trust and who have already used their services. If there are none among your acquaintances, then carefully read the reviews about insurance companies on the forums.
3. Problems With Transport
No one is immune from a car breakdown or from the fact that the flight will be delayed or postponed for several hours. Therefore, you should always have a supply of food for the child, a snack for yourself, and some small change in the currency of the country where you are so that you can quickly and easily buy something to eat or water.
4. Car Rental
If you decide to rent a car for your trip, make sure you have a child car seat. If you book through the site, this wish can be immediately included in the list of additional services, or you can check with the manager what you need and how much it will cost.
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5. Always Dress Your Child in Bright Clothes
Or let at least one piece of clothing be very bright and noticeable. The child may briefly disappear from your sight at the airport, at the train station, in a store, or even just on the street. To be able to see him quickly, choose a brightly colored cap, boots, or jacket, and put your contact information in the pocket of his clothes.
6. Theft or Loss of Documents
Anything can happen on the road, and even if the documents are not stolen, they can be lost. In this case, always carry copies of all your documents with you, which you must keep separately from the originals. Take a photo of your documents and save them on your phone or in the cloud.
7. When Choosing a Hotel
First of all, start with what interests you. If it is the sea and the beach, then choose a hotel by the sea. If you want to go sightseeing, stay within walking distance of the main attractions. If your goal is amusement parks, which are usually located outside the city or on the outskirts, then you need to live closer to them. Please note that the distance to the desired objects, which does not create obstacles for an adult, can create problems when relaxing with a child if he gets tired quickly or wants to go home.
8. Take a Snack With You
Be sure to take something to eat on every trip with your child. Of course, we are not talking about a thermos with broth or cutlets with potatoes. Put yogurt, a banana, an apple, a muffin, or a couple of sandwiches in a drinking bag. When sightseeing or conquering water slides in a local water park, children, as a rule, play out a serious appetite. So that the child does not become capricious while waiting for dinner, it is enough for him to make a small snack.
9. Bring a Hairdryer
Many babies easily become cold or, conversely, overheat. Something as simple as a hairdryer with two settings (cold and hot) will help you maintain a comfortable temperature for your baby.
10. Attach a Gps Tracker to Your Child
Airports are crowded and easy to get lost in. It might be like the movie Home Alone when little Kevin got lost and missed his flight with his parents. A GPS tracker is a beacon that will help you find your child using a smartphone.