Baby’s First Adventures: Traveling on Maternity Leave

I just completed my maternity leave recently and like all travel addicts, I wanted to ensure I make the best of this time “off work”. So I decided to indulge in a number of local and international travels along with my family. Read about my experiences and secret parenting hacks of travelling with an infant and a toddler below.

I started travelling with my baby within a few weeks of his birth. To make ourselves and our baby used to travel,  we took him out on short 2-3 hr drives. This gave us the confidence to be able to venture out with two kids on future overnight trips that were a bit longer from home. 2 hour rides at a stretch with breaks in between for feeding the baby, nappy change and snacks helped making our journeys smoother.

Then when he was around five months old, we took our first international family holiday as a family of four to a destination 18 hours away. From then until now,  my baby has sat in 8 flights and been to more than 10 cities across 3 countries.  At the end of my maternity leave, I realised that while we still had to do the same baby tasks while travelling, just the feeling of being in a new destination with different views, food, climate and sightseeing helped me relax and have a better bond with my little one.

Traveling while on maternity leave can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to bond with your baby and create lasting memories. Here are some tips to make the most of your travels:

• Consult with Your Healthcare Provider: Before planning any trips, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your baby are healthy and fit for travel.

• Choose Baby-Friendly Destinations: Opt for destinations that are baby-friendly and offer amenities such as changing facilities, nursing rooms, and stroller-friendly attractions.

• Pack Essentials: Pack essential items for your baby, including diapers, wipes, formula or breast milk (if applicable), baby clothes, blankets, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget to bring items to keep your baby entertained during travel, such as toys or books.

• Plan for Rest Stops: If traveling by car, plan for frequent rest stops to feed, change, and comfort your baby. If flying, book flights during times when your baby is most likely to sleep.

• Be Flexible: Understand that traveling with a baby may require flexibility. Be prepared to adjust your plans and take breaks as needed to attend to your baby’s needs.

• Stay Organized: Keep all necessary documents, such as passports, travel insurance, and medical records, organized and easily accessible.

• Take Advantage of Maternity Leave Benefits: Depending on your employer and country’s policies, you may be entitled to certain benefits or allowances during maternity leave. Research these options to see if they can help cover travel expenses.

• Prioritize Safety: Ensure your baby’s safety by using appropriate car seats, baby carriers, and sunscreen. Research local healthcare facilities at your destination in case of emergencies.

• Enjoy Quality Time: Most importantly, cherish the opportunity to bond with your baby and enjoy quality time together in new and exciting surroundings.

By following these tips and planning carefully, travelling while on maternity leave can be a fulfilling and memorable experience for both you and your baby.

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