AS PART OF TheJournal.ie’s weekly Family Magazine, we’ve created a space for parents to share their views. A place where mums and dads can share their experiences, lessons learned, and even mistakes along the way.
This week, we’re talking holidays, and specifically holidays with a brand-new baby in tow.
What’s one must-pack item for the first trip away with a baby?
Here’s what they had to say…
A breast or bottle for them to suck on during plane take off and landing: Either be ready to breastfeed or have a bottle for them, both can help little ears deal with pressure change.
- Olly Keegan
A pack of disposable bibs: If they’re on solids, these are great for when you’re eating out.
- Denise Cumiskey
Any new and shiny toy for distractions: If they’re very young and still breast/bottle feeding then you can’t turn to snacks and treats for distractions like you can when they’re older. Something new and shiny that can distract and help deter a meltdown will work wonders (even if it’s just a set of keys). To be honest, the hard part comes when they’re a bit older.
- Kait Quinn
Bring the pram: There is no point killing yourself before the holiday has even begun by trying to carry your baby through Dublin Airport! No. Just take the pram, even if you have to struggle through your destination airport to get it back from the luggage carousel.
- Ross Boxshall
A sling to keep your hands free: Put your little one in a sling. Your hands are free to do other things (like hunting for boarding passes) and if you have other kids, you can more easily tend to them.
- Denise Cumiskey
Easy access to the boob: For very small breastfeeding babies you really only need one thing – and a dummy and some good hanging toys too.
- Marta Lisiecka
A spare baby outfit in your hand luggage: As sure as anything, you will have an immediate explosion of wee or poop as soon as you change them! Have the baby changing bag as your hand luggage and make sure you put in your own book, or whatever entertainment you need for yourself for travelling.
– Olly Keegan
Lots of patience: It’s the one crucial element for travelling with small kids. And a plan. And more patience. We have had plenty of flights where they cried, they were angels, they were happy and sad. You get through it all. Don’t let it stop you from travelling.
- Alan Dooley
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