We’ve been in a global pandemic for a little over a year now, and it’s time we adapted to the new normal. One area in particular that I know many parents are curious about is how we can travel with our babies safely.
After almost two years of no vacation, my husband and I decided it was time to go on a vacation. In addition to adjusting to the new norm of traveling, this would be the first time we traveled with our one-year-old darling daughter. My anxiety immediately kicked in because the numbers, while decreasing, are still high. In addition, most places we were considering traveling to were considered a level 4 (which is the highest level according to the CDC). How could we do this? Should we rethink the plan or figure out a way to safely enjoy our first family vacation. We decided we could do this, and we did. Now, I want to share what safety precautions and procedures we took while traveling and during our vacation.
First things first, Amazon will be your best friend in prepping for this trip.
Here are my recommended purchases for every step of the way.
Stroller / Baby Carrier Rain Cover: This helps create a little bubble for your little one (especially if your child is under two and can’t wear a mask). TSA allows you to take strollers/carriers up to the gate, so this is a way to keep your child safe until you board the plane. If you are traveling as a family and have the entire row, some airlines allow you to bring a baby on the carrier. I promise this step alone is the peace you need in knowing your baby is extra safe in their bubble. If you must check your stroller at the gate, you can buy universal airline bags specifically for strollers to ensure your stroller isn’t messed up during transit to your destination.
Lysol to-go spray: These were a little hard to find when the pandemic began, but they are available again! As soon as you get to your row, spray the area with this to ensure your designated space is clean.
Clorox Wipes: After you’ve sprayed, you can then wipe down your seats for extra cleaning purposes.
Airplane disposable seat covers: Yes, they are cleaning the airplanes, but this is an extra safety step you can make on your own to ensure you and your baby remain germ-free. They even have disposable tray covers as well! Fun Fact: Just in case you have to change baby in the restroom at the airport, if you have extra disposable seat covers, you can use this to put down on the changing table as an extra precaution!
Hand Sanitizing Wipes: Most airlines provide these during the flight, but it’s always great to have your own. You can keep them in your bag during travel and pretty much anywhere you go. If your child is anything like mine, they like to touch everything! Having these wipes are a lifesaver to immediately wipe their hands. I usually use wet wipes, but the Honest company also has great ones with aloe vera for babies.
Extra Masks: At this point, you can never have too many masks. Personally, I like to wear the KN95 masks and the surgical masks over that. Double masking in a place like an airport or hotel makes you feel extra protected. If you have children over the age of 2, having the additional masks is great, just if they lose them while on vacation.
A Calming Rub: Because traveling can already cause anxiety, it can be heightened when you have a crying baby. For this, I recommend a calming rub. It is non-medicated and includes natural oils like eucalyptus and lavender. You rub it on the baby’s chest and feet, and it helps soothe them during the flight.
Now that you’ve gotten to your destination let’s talk about vacation safety. When booking your hotel or resort, look for places that are taking extra safety precautions. There is usually a note of some sort on the site that will indicate this. Also, look into the details of how they are ensuring that safety.
For example, we chose Puerto Rico as our destination. The hotel that we chose explicitly lists on their site that there is a minimum of 24 hours between the time someone checks out and a new person checks in. Masks were required at all times in shared areas. Temperature checks are required every time we entered the hotel (even if you already checked in). There was a required negative Covid test no more than 72 hours before checking in, and lastly, they had officers on-site at all times to ensure everyone was following the safety protocols.
As an extra precaution upon arrival to our room, I used an air sanitizing spray that I found throughout the room, and we were ready to enjoy our vacation.
By taking these safety precautions, I assure you can take a vacation with little to no anxiety. It may be time-consuming, but it’s worth it. It’s not only your health but your child’s health that depends on it. There may be some mom guilt with traveling during a pandemic, but after taking the precautions, having a good time, and everyone coming back Covid free, you’ll be looking to plan next year’s vacation. I know we are!