Traveling with your newborn can be fun and enjoyable. By the age of 2–4 weeks, your baby is fit enough to travel, as long as the trip is well planned. But, traveling with a newborn presents some challenges that can be overcome with ease by proper planning and preparation. Infact, traveling with a newborn is much easier as she cannot run around and get into trouble as older children.
Traveling by plane, train or car does not matter as long as your baby is amused and comfortable; makes your trip enjoyable. Taking few extra safety precautions can make your traveling comfortable, safer and easier. |  |
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When taking up the public transport like bus, car or train it is advisable to carry a car seat, so that your baby is safe and protected even when there is no seat belt. If you are traveling by yourself, a portable stroller is very helpful.
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If you plan to travel by car, it is necessary to properly install the car seat and seat belts. Your baby should always ride in the backseat, in a rear-facing car seat. It is not safe to place your newborn in the front seat or hold her in your lap when you are in the front seat.
It may be risky to take out your baby from the car seat when the car is in motion. It is always better to stop the car for feeding, changing diapers or for comforting her. Plan to stop for every 30 min to 1 h to check whether your baby is comfortable. |  |
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Infant car seat safety - Use the right kind of seat for your child's age, weight and height.
- Buy an FAA-approved car seat.
- Place some non-slip rubber under the car seat.
- The middle rear seat is generally considered the safest.
- Read both the car and child seat manuals carefully.
- Rear-facing infant car seat should sit at a 45° angle to prevent the baby from slumping.
- After installing the car seat, check it by trying to move it. It should not move more than an inch side to side along the belt path. If it does, tighten the straps or try installing it again.
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Traveling by plane
If all the safety issues are considered, air travel is safe for your newborn. Anytime after 4 weeks your baby is safe to take up the trip. Once you board the plane, place your baby in a rear facing infant safety seat and ensure that the seat is correctly installed.
During take off and landing the changes in the atmospheric pressure can cause changes in the middle ear leading to pain. To reduce the pressure during take off and landing time, feed your infant.
If your infant is not hungry,try to offer a pacifier. If your newborn is already suffering from ear infection, it is always advisable to consult your pediatrician before planning your trip. Your doctor will suggest accordingly.
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After the air travel your baby may experience jet lag, so to over come this situation you can change your baby’s sleep hours for few days in accordance to your departure. Exposing your baby to sunlight once you reach your destination will be of great help.
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Traveling by train
Traveling by train can be fun, as train travel is slower and safer. You will be comfortable in taking a walk with your baby as it is spacious and slower. Here are some tips which will make your train trip comfortable and safe. It is always important to arrive at the station early to avoid unnecessary rush.
Always prefer seats facing each other, so that you can place the baby in the seat across from you. Since the temperature is not constant in the train, it is essential to dress your baby in layers of clothing, so as to add or remove accordingly. |  |
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Tips for a comfortable air travel - Try to avoid over scheduling the first few days of your trip, as this may disrupt your baby’s biological rhythms.
- Try to avoid busy flights.
- Pack all the essentials that you need to during the trip, like diapers,baby powder, pain relievers, feeders, juice, blanket, a bib, snack foods and spoons, medical kit, teething items, toys and puppets.
- Schedule your air travel during the sleep hours of your baby.
- Use ultra absorbent diapers just before you board the plane and also change in the airport once you arrive.
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Traveling check list
It is important to make a list of all the essential items that you might need during your trip. Just forgetting an item can make you regret and uncomfortable all through your trip. |
- Carry enough diapers.
- Bags for dirty diapers.
- Goody bay with your baby’s favorite toys.
- Hat for your baby.
- Soft blanket.
- Infant car seat.
- First aid kit.
- Snacks.
- Ready to use baby food if you are not breastfeeding.
- At least one extra set of clothes for yourself and your baby that's easily accessible.
- Warm clothing.
- Waterproof bib.
- Sunscreen of at least SPF-15.
- Front carriers or sling.
- Emergency list of important contact names and numbers.
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Traveling first aid-kit - Prescription medicines
- Nappy rash cream
- Thermometer
- Baby paracetamol
- Antiseptic ointment or liquid
- Saline nose drops
- Plasters
- Tweezers
- Insect repellent
- Calamine lotion
- Rehydration powder
- First aid guide
- Teething gel
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