Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Outings and Travel | Making travel with babies & kids fuss-free

June holidays are approaching. Yes, some like it some fear it. My kids childcare has planned a series of school outings for the kids and I am tagging along too to enjoy the holidays as an adult. Well, adults don't have school holidays so I have to make full use of any opportunities to play and bond with my children.


My children are 3 and 6 years now and thus it is much easier now. I definitely recalled when they are still a baby and a toodler. The mind is all about making sure that I have brought enough items so that I won't lack any items that are required. Ironically, when I have brought everything out in a big bag (sure heavy!!!), then I realised a lot of items were not used at all. Well, it's for just in case purposes anyway, sigh. =p Sometimes, I even have this bad thought that we should not go out so that we won't be iny situation that makes the trips unpleasant. Bad thought actually!

Nevertheless, parents will tend to bring their children out more often during the holidays, be in some interesting places locally or aboard. At different ages, parents should be concerned and prepared themselves essentially when out as you won’t know what you might experience along the way, especially when all of you travel overseas.

Outings can in fact be very enjoying if you are well prepared, well organized and self-assured. However, do bear in mind that travels should not be too ambitious and should not be any overly strenuous walking expeditions. Relax and should you experience some hiccups, laugh at it instead of fuss over it, spoiling your outings and overseas trips.


Here's a guide of what to pack in your bag.



A. Local Outings

0-1 Year Old
It’s worth while to spend some time to plan how you are going to your destination, what you need, where to feed your child and change him. If you are not confident, have your partner or friend with you to help.

Items to bring along for a young baby:
- Changing Mat (if nursing rooms are not easily located)
- Sufficient Nappies/diapers
- Baby Wipes/ Diaper cream/
- Milk Feeds
- Sweater
- Extra set of clothes
- Burp cloth/ Bib
- Pacificer (if baby needs it)
- Hat
- Toys
- Wet Bags

Extra items to bring along for an older baby:
- Milk Feeds, Baby Food and spoon
- Snacks
- Water
- Bib
- Sweater
- Extra set of clothes
- Hand Sanitizer

How to bring your baby out?
Parents should also think about how you want to bring your baby out. The time you are bring them out, i.e. during off peak or peak hours, the amount of time out and what is the mode of transport all contribute to how you decide to carry your baby and of course the items baby needs.

1. Using a Sling
Slings are one of the most convenient methods to carry your baby if your outings are not too long. But do ensure that baby and adult is comfortable.


2. Using a stroller/pram

Use a stroller if you are expecting to be out for hours as your baby can sleep comfortably in the stroller. However, do not leave your child unattended. When in stationary position, ensure that the wheels are locked and put on the safety harness.

1-3 Years Old
By this time, your child might have learned to walk. The greatest possible problem is to keep him or her safely restrained. Always be prepared to slow down your outing pace as your child might stops to look and explore what he or she sees along the way.

Your child might not be happy if he or she is totally restrained in his or her stroller. You might see the need to persuade your child to stay in it and one of the best way is to bring along his or her favorite toy as well as some snacks.

Items to bring along:
- Toys
- Books
- Water
- Snacks
- Comforter
- Sweater
- Hat
- Diapers if not toilet trained
- Additional set of clothes
- Wet Bags


B. Air Travels

If you are intending to travel by air, you need to plan your journey meticulously. Always check with the flight company or travel agency the constraints on board an air craft.

Things to note:
- Always indicate that you have a baby with you.
- Ask for a bulkhead seat as there’s more leg room
- Check if cots are provided onboard
- Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare
- Always seek your child’s doctor advise ahead of the trip for health precautions, vaccinations, medication

Items to bring along (ensure sufficient supplies):
- Child’s travel documents
- Baby bag for baby’s on-the-go items
- Stroller/ pram
- Changing needs
- Plastic bags
- Feeding needs
- Toys
- Comforters
- Sweater
- Water
- Medication

Here's a list of products to consider. Get them at www.eobexclusive.com.

Label Label Pacificer Holder

OXO Tot Snack Disc


Smelly Bag

Steripod Portable Toothbrush Sanitizer

0 comments:

Post a Comment