Road trips with a baby definitely require more planning and patience than your pre-mom days, but they are possible! This checklist will help you remember all the things your infant needs to survive the open road and their vacation.
Feeding:
Bottles
Probiotics
Vitamin D Drops
Gas Drops
Formula
Microwaveable Sanitizing Bags
Bibs
Burp Cloths
Nursing Pillow
Nursing Bras/Pads
Nipple Care (cream, shields, etc.)
Baby Dish Soap
Bottle Brush or Sponge
Bottle Warmer
Bottle Drying Rack
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Pumping:
Electric Pump
Manual Pump
Spare Pump Parts
Milk Storage Bags
Cooler
Ice Packs
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Diaper Changes:
Baby Wipes
Diapers
Changing Pad
Diaper Rash Cream & Applicator
Small tie-able bags for dirty diapers (e.g. doggie poo bags)
Diaper Bag
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Health:
Baby Thermometer
Snot Sucker
Pain Reliever (depending on age)
Allergy Medicine (depending on age)
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Bathtime:
Towels
Wash Cloths
Baby Body Soap
Tub Thermometer
Nail Clippers
Hair Brush
Lotion
Bath Elbow and Knee Pad
Bathtub
Bath Rinser
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Clothes:
Swaddles
Day Clothes
PJs
Socks
Shoes
Hat
Swimsuit
Swim Diaper
Jacket
Baby Laundry Detergent
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Gear:
Car Seat
Stroller
White Noise Machine
Baby Wearing Sling
Baby Monitor
Pack N Play
Bassinet
Blanket(s)
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Road Trip Tips:
The keys to a successful road trip with an infant are keeping expectations low and remaining flexible.
The days of driving “straight through” are likely over, so it’s best to set small goals, and celebrate these victories. For example, set a goal to try driving for two hours before pulling over again. Maybe it will turn out to be an hour and a half, maybe it’ll be three hours. Either way, it’s okay!
Keep extra pacifiers in easy to reach places like the middle console or sunglasses holder. The pacifiers with small stuffed animals attached are much easier to find in a panic as well.
Fill up any and all drink holders in the backseat with extra wipes and diapers so that there are always some accessible without having to hunt for them.
Keep a paper towel or toilet paper roll handy, along with some small wash cloths to clean up inevitable messes.
If you can’t throw a diaper away right away, tie it up into a doggie poo bag to contain the smell.
Add sun shades to the back windows.
Add a mirror to the headrest.
Use a variety methods to distract baby when fussy:
Crinkle books
Toys
Portable White Noise Machine
Shows on your phone/tablet (e.g. Kipper, Cocomelon, Sesame Street)
Take turns sitting in the back seat with your baby.
For multi-day road trips, try getting baby into a routine:
Feed and change diaper (while pulled over)
Buckle into the carseat
Entertain with toys/books/music
Nap (hopefully)
Entertain again
Pull over and take a break for another feed, diaper change, and to get some fresh air.
If baby is hysterical, do not take them out of the car seat while driving. Pull over and take a break. But, if a break hasn’t helped:
Check that the car seat angle and straps are adjusted correctly. Refer to your car seat manufacturer for proper installation and use information.
Check if baby is too hot (sweaty neck) or too cold (cold hands or feet). If so, try adjusting the temperature in the car.
Try changing baby’s outfit. Some clothing items have scratchy decals or tags that may be bothering them.
Consider stopping for the day or at least for a few hours.
Disclosure:
Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication or giving any medication to your baby.
