Traveling with a newborn can always be tricky, especially if you are first time parents. Things can get overwhelming at times, and it is always best to prepare ahead of time.
When is it safe to travel with a newborn?
In general, it is not recommended to travel with a newborn during the first month. Our body needs to heal postpartum and also the baby needs time to adjust to the new world outside of womb. But it is always best to check with your doctor as well as the pediatrician.
I had a caesarean delivery but with postpartum blues kicking in and no help whatsoever I had no choice but to go to my parents. I first checked in with my gynecologist if I was fit to fly. Once I got the go ahead, we then went and checked with the pediatrician.
Since I had a healthy pregnancy and a full-term baby, we were given the go ahead after 3 weeks. And so, we took our first flight with our newborn when he was just 21 days old!
Planning for the trip
Being first time parents, we were not really sure of our baby's schedule, and we booked tickets as per the availability. But I would advise you to plan your travel keeping the baby's schedule in mind.
Try and book the flights that match with the nap time of the baby. This way you and the baby both can relax on board and during the flight. Despite of no proper planning I had a smooth journey since my baby was asleep during most of the flight.
I had to travel 2 different sectors to reach to our destination. Keeping that in mind I choose the flights which gave us ample of rest time before the second leg of the journey. During this time, I changed diapers, fed and burped the baby and also got the time to eat my meals in peace.
What to pack while traveling with a newborn
I would suggest going minimal with the packing. Depending on the travel time keep only the essentials in your carry-on bags and pack all the extra stuff in the check-in luggage.
Rather than a separate diaper bag I carried a small bag in my backpack. I also ditched my regular handbag because that meant carrying extra stuff. I made a small regular sized zipper bag as a diaper bag. I kept extra diapers, rash cream (which thankfully was never needed), Baby wipes, small bottle of baby lotion, diaper disposable bags and a small bottle of sanitizer.
Since I exclusively breastfed my baby, I didn't have to carry any bottles or formula. But if you are carrying bottles and formula, I would suggest putting them in a separate pouch and carrying together in your backpack. Also, do not forget to carry your own water for the formula.
Whatever the weather I would suggest carrying at least 2 extra sets of woolens (caps, sweaters, socks and mittens). Also carry 2 sets of regular baby clothes. I would recommend keeping the baby in suit sets rather than onesies because it would be easier to clean in case of blow outs.
I never carried or rather brought a burp cloth because I never needed it. But if you can, carry one just in case. I also carried a few washcloths. Always go for the muslin washcloths or the soft cotton ones. And make sure to wash them once beforehand.
I also carried a small diaper changing mat in my backpack. It comes in handy even while changing the diapers without a proper set up.
Documents that are needed while traveling with a new born
First of all, I kept both my and my baby's medical file. I also kept baby's birth certificate although it was without his name. Since our baby was only 21 days old, I did not have his name on the birth certificate. It is better to keep all the relevant baby documents especially the vaccine certificate or card.
Since I was traveling during the pandemic, we carried my husband's COVID vaccine certificate as well. The COVID vaccine was not advised for pregnant women and lactating mothers during that time, in India.
I also carried both hard and soft copies of my travel bookings along with government identity cards.
Other things to consider
I always prefer booking my seats in advance to avoid last minute hassle. I would recommend going for the window seat as it will give you maximum privacy and comfort.
I traveled in an airbus for the first leg of the journey and so fed my baby during landing and takeoff. It is advisable to feed the baby or give them pacifiers/bottles to suck on to avoid popping of ear. The second leg of my journey was in an ATR.
I had an early morning flight, but we reached the airport a couple of hours before. I did not carry a baby carrier or a stroller because I preferred keeping him in my arms. Carrying my baby in a baby sleeping bag was comfortable as well as convenient. The baby sleeping bag not only kept him warm and cozy but also safe.
Pacifiers help babies in soothing, but I did not give one to my baby because I never understood the concept of it. And also, my mom is totally against them too! Instead, I tried other ways to help him soothe, like rocking, humming etc.
I also made sure to take rest whenever possible. Since we did not have a baby carrier, my husband took care of our baby while I was eating or just needed some time. Make sure to take care of yourself too Mama.
I hope my experiences and tips will help you and make your trip a memorable one. Do check out my other blogs on postpartum blues, postpartum hair care, taking care of postpartum body, hospital bag essentials, newborn essentials, potty training and immunity boosting chicken soup.
Do give us a shout-out on Instagram too. Happy parenting! :)
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