It can be daunting to think of travelling with your baby,
with all kinds of paranoias rising up, about forgetting Sophie the Giraffe, or
what it they start wailing and you can’t quiet them and everyone’s staring…
But it’s important for both babies and parents to get out of
the house, not just to avoid going stir crazy, but for physical and mental
development of the little one. By seeing different things, smelling different
smells and experiencing the wide world while feeling protected and safe in the
important early development stages you can ensure they are confident and well-adjusted
in the world as they grow up.
Travelling with a baby on public transport
It can be quite daunting to get on a bus, train of the tube
with a baby, but it can be done, with a little thought about the factors and
how best to handle them.
The key here is travelling light. It’s all the accessories
that will encumber you and be a cause of obstructions and stress. If at all
possible, try to avoid using a buggy, as these tend to be bulky and hard to fit
in the narrow spaces of public transport. Also, someone has to hold the baby
while you collapse and open it up again. Better to use a body sling, which will
keep your hands free, baby close and safe near your body (and feeling extra
secure there) and adds the minimum of weight and bulk.
Similarly, only bring the essentials. It can seem like a lot
of things are essential, but most things can be bought on demand if you’re in
relative civilization, and in many cases you can make do. For example, will a
blanket double as a changing matt, and can you simply use a cloth and water
instead of wet wipes?
Travelling with a baby by car
The advice is opposite if travelling by car. You have the
space and luxury to be able to overpack and bring anything you think might come
in useful. The main concern here is keeping the baby from crying the whole
journey and turning you into a ball of stress – not good for driving. Try to
plan the journey for when they are going to be asleep or at least drowsy. The
movement often encourages sleep (in some adults too!) and a sleeping baby is a
quiet baby.
Also, make sure you get to know your car seat well. The
majority of car seats are not fitted properly, reducing their safety levels.
Read the manual and seek advice if you’re really struggling, but make sure it’s
in correctly.
