Could there be anything worse than making another list of things to take on vacation? It seems there could be. When we go on vacation with a baby and discover what we forgot, which we will have to senselessly spend money on—money we could otherwise spend on various pleasures. A baby is a being that differs from us not only in size but also in needs. You have to consider these needs to take what is necessary.
When we have a baby at home, we know that every trip, even a weekend one, is a challenge. What to take, in what quantity, what is essential, and what might come in handy? These are questions that keep us awake long before the trip. And even more so when the trip lasts longer, several weeks for example. To calm down, we want to create a list, but where to start? Let's start with the fact that no vacation can be successful if you don't take care of formal matters. You should bring documents such as insurance certificates, health booklets, passports or ID cards, accommodation address, payment confirmations, plane tickets if traveling by air, and contact information for a specialist, e.g. a pediatrician. Right after the documents, think about the first aid kit. It should contain:
Right next to the first aid kit is the topic of hygiene articles. It is essential to bring something suitable for the baby for bathing and washing hair because these are gentler products than ours or those offered in hotels. Also, toothpaste and toothbrush. Hygiene tissues and wet wipes, and toilet paper also seem mandatory. Diapers, potty if already used. Hairbrush, nail scissors, device for removing ticks. It may turn out that a hairdryer will also be useful. Besides, it's always worth having some laundry detergent. Of course, sunscreen creams, something for mosquitoes, after-sun balm, sunglasses.
Clothes to take on vacation with a baby is a topic that often ends with taking almost everything we have. Worse if we have to consider baggage limits. What to definitely take?
Shoes for the baby are, of course, an issue to consider depending on what stage of walking learning they are at. It’s also worth thinking about how to store and serve food and drinks and deciding if and what thermos flasks, sippy cups, bottles, plates, cutlery, bowls, etc. will be needed. Perhaps a milk warmer will also come in handy. Porridges, powdered milk, or jars just in case. It is important not to forget the child’s favorite snacks.
With a small child, it is different than with an older one. You have to provide them activity not necessarily in the form of sightseeing. Going on vacation with a baby to the water, don't forget floating toys, balls, inflatable rings, or armbands. Also, of course, sand toys, a screen, maybe a beach tent, blanket, beach umbrella. Often such items are provided in the accommodations where we stay, so it’s worth asking the owner to avoid unnecessary luggage. Also favorite toys of the child, a cuddly toy, stroller, car seat, unless we rent together with a car. Baby carrier, pacifiers, or travel cot. It all depends on where we go and what the place where we will stay offers.
When such or a similar list is ready, the trip with the baby will probably still make us stressed but less so. Still, remember that vacations are for us too, and there must be room in the suitcase for everything we need ourselves. Sometimes, unfortunately, we forget that, and on-site we have to go shopping immediately.
