If you’re planning a camping or caravan holiday with a young baby, you might be feeling a little apprehensive about how both you and your baby will cope. With a bit of planning, you can look forward to a stress-free holiday which everyone will enjoy.
Our guest blogger, Melissa Riley of BubCarrier has put together seven useful tips to help you (and your baby) prepare for your holiday!
1. Plan ahead
Find a family friendly
resort or
campsite and ask them what
facilities are available for babies and young children. Some will have equipment such as portable cots and highchairs available to borrow or hire. Having access to a pool, shady spots to play and even other mums and dads with young children can also be really helpful!
2. Allow extra time for the journey (& set off at nap time!)
It might be tempting to get the drive over and done with as quickly as possible, but with a baby that doesn’t always work. Plan to set off when your little one is having their daytime sleep and get as much driving done while they are napping. Plan any break times around feeds, nappies and play time. It might take a little bit longer to get to your destination but you’ll arrive feeling happier and less stressed!
3. Stick to the same sleep times & routine
Your baby will be sleeping in a different place when you are away from home and that could unsettle them a little. However, if you stick to the same sleep routine and times you’ll find that your baby will quickly adapt to their new surroundings and you can enjoy some much-deserved relaxation time while your little one sleeps!
Remember to bring their favourite toys, books and soothers to help them feel relaxed and comfortable in their new, temporary home!
4. Get your baby used to sleeping in a portable cot before you leave
If you get a chance, setup a portable cot at home for a few days before you leave for your holiday. This will get your baby used to their new cot in their comfortable and familiar surroundings. It also gives you a chance to make sure you know how to put it up and make sure everything works before you set off!
5. Use a baby carrier
Baby carriers are great on holiday because they allow you to carry your little one and keep your arms free to setup the tent or hold a cold drink! They are really calming and soothing for most babies, and they will often fall asleep in a baby carrier or wrap when all else fails! It’s important to follow the
T.I.C.K.S guidelines for safe babywearing, and purchase a carrier from a reputable brand.
6. Stay Calm & Relaxed!
Babies are highly intuitive. If they pick up on your stress they are more likely to be unsettled – which will probably stress you out even more! Try to relax and enjoy your holiday and you’ll find that your baby will be more likely to relax too (we realise this is sometimes easier said than done!).
7. Bring everything you need for baby
To help you relax and make sure you don’t have to worry about shopping for baby supplies while on holiday, it’s worth making sure you have everything you need for your baby before you set off. Make a checklist and go through it before you leave.
Things to think about include:
- Nappy bag with a portable change pad
- Baby wipes and lotion
- Enough nappies for the trip
- Extra clothes so you don’t have to worry about washing
- Baby bottles (and if you are formula feeding be sure to ask the staff for a fridge).
- Anything else you would take along with your baby if you were to go on a day outing.
- Favourite toys, soothers & comforters
- Any medications or pain relief you might want
- Baby food or formula
- Sunhat
- Plastic utensils, bowl etc
With a little planning it really is possible to have a fun and relaxing holiday with a young baby!
Many thanks to our guest blogger
Brisbane Holiday Village would like to thank Melissa Riley of
BubCarrier one of Australia’s leading baby carrier, sling and wrap retailers, for their guest blog! Melissa is passionate about helping people throughout Australia experience the benefits of babywearing. Melissa loves the outdoors and regularly goes on camping trips with her two young boys.
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