Tips on Traveling with Babies?

Dear P. B.,

We travelled often with our two daughters when they were that young (10 months) and younger. We stopped frequently (like at least every 1 1/2 hours) and let them run or crawl (when that was their mode of personal conveyance)and showed them whatever we were around that stop. If there were flowers we would point out all the colors and name them or if there were dogs we would say what breeds they were, etc. It gets their minds off of how tired they are of riding in the vehicle.

Be sure to take a couple of his favorite toys to play with while riding in the vehicle and especially his favorite sleeping toy for bed time. Plenty of water during the trip is a good idea because travelling can make some constipated and you don't want that in a baby. Apple juice for adults can be diluted 2/3 juice and 1/3 water will help if this happens.

Be sure to have a soothing routine before bedtime for the night so he can relax and calm down, especially if he has had a lot of stimulation during the day.

L. C.

Lots of sunscreen, hats, toys. I have been travelling with my daughter since she was 5 months old. She has always done amazing! I go to the dollar store and get some "trip" toys, brand new things for the travel makes it more exciting.

I use a lotion called Renew that has been proven to help with eczema, I put it on before the sunscreen and make sure he is well hydrated. Put on sunscreen often as the ocean tends to be a little cooler.

Be sure to put the sunscreen/sunblock on at least 30 mintues before going out in the sun so it has time to start working. Also watch that the baby doens't drink the ocean water, I would recommend if you are going to take him int he ocean staying as close to the shore line as possible, I have read that baby's under a year should not go in lakes, oceans, and even cholorine pools. Granted we all do what we think is right and not what others tell us to do. But you don't want to keep him in the water too long. There is also thie little pop up tent at Babies r us that you can take to the beach to put the little guy in to help him stay out of the sun, I purchased one for my daughter and it's great!!!!

Enjoy your vacation!!!!!

Eczema can be successfuly treated by removing the toxins in your son's surroundings & life. Replace them with natural alternatives that promote healing. Renew Intensive Skin Therapy Lotion is great for this. Apply before and adter his salt water swim. You'l be very pleased!

Go to: www.ThisFamilyCounts.com

Hi P.,

I read a lot about babies and what is good/not good for them. When I look at all the studies about how much just a short time in the sun can increase the chances of getting skin damages later in your life - I definitely try to protect my daughter from the sun as much as I can.
When we went to the beach I took a litte pop-up tent for her (if it´s windy it works better than an umbrella) She even loved playing peek-a-boo through the windows. Also you can get UV-protective shirts and pants (e.g. www.onestepahead.com).
For sunscreen I ordered sunlotion from Lavera. This is a mineral based sun lotion and much better for the skin than chemical ones. After reading different sun screen test (mainly German web sides) I found this very good rated lotion (Lavera) online here as well. But still I try to avoid being in the sun with her from 11am to 3pm.
Oh, and if your little one does not like wearing hats: I bought a little headscarf for my dauhter (they can wear it like a little pirate´s hat).
Some friends think I am overprotective, but I think all this research cannot be wrong and there is a reason why they are trying to warn the people.

We still had a great time at the beach. I am sure your little son will love it!
Have a great vacation
Melanie

We took my son to Texas when he was about that age (14 years ago!) to visit relatives. We went to the gulf coast and had a great time. He was fine. Just remember to cover him up so he doesn't get sunburnt.

If can be a bit difficult traveling with a baby because you have to pack all their "stuff"! But the relatives love to see babies. After you're done with your trip you may need a "girlfriend getaway' though. Check out: http://www.greatspacesatfunplaces.com/html/girlfriend_get...