If you’re planning a road trip with your baby, you may be wondering if it’s even possible! Road trips can be one of the best ways for new parents to spend quality family time, enjoy scenic views, and make unforgettable memories.
Whether this is your first adventurous endeavour or if you’re a seasoned traveller taking that epic family vacation, you want to ensure you are equipped for any situation on the road to give your family an enjoyable journey.
Whether you’re travelling in your car or using a rental motorhome or campervan, here are some tips for road-tripping with a baby.
Schedule the right driving times
Scheduling the right times to drive when road-tripping with a baby is essential. Consider your baby’s sleeping schedule, and if they’re good at sleeping in the car, you may want to plan your driving stretches for a while they’re asleep.
However, if they don’t sleep well in the car, you may want to save the driving parts for when they’re awake, making sure you stop during nap time. Keep in mind you may not be able to drive very far to accommodate your baby, so try to plan stops that fit with your driving schedule so that you can grab a coffee or some food when you do come to a stop.
Get in the backseat
One of the most important things to remember when taking a long car ride with a baby is to get into the backseat. Getting in the backseat allows you to be hands-on with your infant and ensure they’re happy and entertained throughout the drive.
It also allows you to interact more directly, as many babies are comforted by their parent’s presence. This can have multiple benefits, from entertaining the baby so they don’t become fussy to helping distribute snacks and drinks between passengers safely and evenly.
Distract with road trip snacks
Distraction can be a great way to keep little ones entertained on long car rides. Road trip snacks are an ideal way to get babies and toddlers focused on something other than the monotony of the road.
With planning, you can incorporate different flavours and textures at infrequent intervals that will interest your little one during the journey. Bring along a variety of items like organic fruit snacks, granola bars, and animal crackers so the baby has something new to look forward to when they start getting antsy.
These snacks are easy to pass out in the backseat, so you can focus on driving without worrying about distracting yourself with baby food. Also, pre-packaged snacks don’t need refrigeration, so you won’t worry about them going bad!
Pack a roadside emergency kit
Having an emergency roadside kit ready before you hit the road is essential. This must-have kit should include diapers, wet wipes, blankets, comfortable clothes and extra water. Most importantly, pack an ample supply of your baby’s snacks and formula.
Also, bring tools for car repairs like wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers. Remember to pack a flashlight and spare batteries too! Being prepared for any potential problems on the open road will ensure everyone has a pleasant journey.
Be reasonable with your itinerary
When embarking on a road trip with your baby, it is important to be reasonable in setting expectations. Sometimes deviations from the plan can add extra stress or exhaustion, so it’s smart to plan out travel times carefully.
Take into account the fact that you will likely need more frequent stops along the way due to feedings or diaper changes, plus any additional travel complications such as bad weather or construction zones.
Allowing extra cushion in your travel timeline is a good practice that will ultimately result in an enjoyable experience for everyone in the car!
Planning a road trip with a baby
Road trips with a baby can be an exciting and rewarding experience; however, it’s important to ensure you have the necessary supplies to keep your little one safe and entertained.
The tips discussed are just a few ways to ensure that you, your baby, and the rest of your family are well-prepared for the journey ahead.
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