Tips on Road Tripping with your Baby

Being home with a baby can feel monotonous and tedious. Especially during a time like now, where outings are limited due to COVID-19. While there is no joy like spending time with your baby, it can sometimes feel like the walls are closing in on you. A change of scenery could be just what the doctor ordered. Why not head out and hit the road?

Here are some tips for taking a road trip with your baby!

• Choose a destination that has stops along the way. Everyone needs to stretch their legs after a few hours, and this is no different for your baby. Map out a park or fun destination along the way to take a driving break.

• Prepare to spend longer on the road than you would pre-baby. More stops = more time on the road. Be prepared for unplanned diaper changing and feeding stops. Avoid the scenic route this time and choose the fastest route to your destination.

• Try to drive during nap times. If your baby is on a schedule and naps well in the car, try to get your long stretches of driving in during times when she regularly naps. If your baby doesn't nap well in the car, then plan to leave right when he/she wakes up and is happiest.

• On that note, if you can get a nap in too while the baby is napping, you'll be better for it. One of our Toddler Pillows will do the trick!

• Bring a bag/caddy that is easily accessible with supplies A great way to keep everything organized is with our Baby Caddy!

• A travel diaper changing pad like our SWIFT Diaper Mat is a must for a road trip! You never know when a diaper blowout is coming.

• Necessities: diapers and wipes, formula, etc. Pack extra, just in case!

• Books, toys, CDs--all of baby's favorite things! Consider packing some new, never-before-seen items for the road trip. This will excite your baby and (hopefully) extend the time they are occupied.

• Snacks, snacks, snacks--Did I say snacks? If your baby isn't eating solid foods yet, then consider a teething ring! Otherwise, don’t forget your silicone bib to catch the crumbs!

• Snacks for YOU. No one wants a HANGRY mama on the road.

• Plastic bags for trash.

• It's helpful to have one adult ride in the back with your baby, but that can't always be done. If you are planning to be the driver, or ride shotgun, you'll want to get one of our handy Baby Car Seat Mirrors. Babies love looking at their reflections, and it will give you a way to easily see their faces from the rearview mirror.

• Don't forget a window shade to keep the sun out of your baby's eyes.

• Bring your sense of humor! Have a little pep talk with yourself beforehand. Not everything will go as planned, and there will be hiccups. You are more likely to skate through the stressful moments when they arise (because they will) if you are mentally prepared.

A road trip or any trip with a baby is just that, a trip. I have changed my verbiage from thinking of it as a "vacation" because you still have to take care of your baby, and your wants/needs often come second. I don't know about you, but to me, a true vacation means I don't have to look at the clock or worry about anything. That being said, it is still a magical thing to experience traveling with your little one. Embrace the journey!