I am not a big traveler but I do love getting away with my family. I especially love quick weekend trips to the beach and staying at a hotel with a pool – it is just so fun to play, not do chores, and spend time together. Below you can find a sample packing list (I used this exact one for our first week-long vacation with both kiddos at ages 5 months and 2 years), as well as some life hacks that have helped make our trips smooth-ish 🙂
- If flying a long-distance, bring carseat on the plane. It is a lot easier to have the carseat you are used to because if you rent a car, while they can provide a carseat for you I like not stressing about figuring out how to install it, make straps the right fit, etc. Also, while this means you need to purchase a ticket for your kiddo on the plane, it is so easy to have a spot he/she can nap, eat, play with toys, etc.
- Bring special toys just for the plane so that there is some novelty – I especially like toys that suction to the food tray so that baby can’t throw them lol
- If staying at a hotel, many provide a crib at your request. If staying at a rental house, there are companies that can deliver baby equipment (crib, high chair, etc.) directly to the house. Or, you can bring your own goods. Pack and plays are lifesavers.
- Don’t stress too much over baby’s schedule, but don’t push baby too far otherwise nobody is going to have a great time. Be respectful of baby’s sleep needs and then take advantage of awake time to explore. Finding a balance will help everyone.
- I relax a bit with my rules, but I don’t start creating bad habits. So while I might bring baby into bed with me early in the morning a handful of times, something I don’t do when at home, once vacation is over we get back to our normal routine.
- Have fun! Attitude is everything 🙂
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