ROAD TRIPS WITH

Babies & Children: Travel Tips

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Travelling long journeys in the car with your baby and children can seem exciting and daunting all at the same time. My husband and I travelled 4 hours in the car to Devon for Christmas, when Elliott was just a few days old. We regularly make the journey. I’ve even done the journey alone with a toddler and small baby.

The longest trip we took was from Woking to the Isle of Skye Scotland! Elliott was only 18 months at the time and got car sick! We’ve made mistakes during our travels and learnt a thing or two. Here are some tips I have learnt to help with your road trips.

Its all in the planning

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Make sure you know the route you’re taking and that there are places to stop and pull over along the way. You may need to make unplanned stops, so it’s important to have a plan. You may also want to avoid routes with winding roads, as these can be more challenging for drivers with young children.

Timing

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Schedule your journey around your baby’s naptime. This will help them to sleep for most of the journey, making it easier for everyone. If your baby is not a good sleeper in the car, you may want to consider starting your journey early in the morning or late at night, when they are more likely to be tired. I do this with my children now. I find even if they don’t sleep very much they are quite chilled in the back of the car. 

Pack a Change of Clothes

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Now this is super important! Not too long into the beginning of our oh-so-long journey to the Isle of Skye, we discovered Elliott got car sick. Yes we had our luggage packed but it was safely stored in suitcases in the boot. We always have a backpack with a spare change of clothes  in case of accidents. Don’t forget clothes for you too!

Be prepared for Feeding

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If you’re breastfeeding, keep a nursing pillow close to hand. For bottle fed babies, bring a travel bottle warmer or premade formula. Some mums even bring a breast pump so they can pump while their partner drives. 

First Aid

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Bring a First Aid Kit. This is essential in case of any accidents or injuries. You should also pack any medication that your children need. 

Snacks, Snacks and more Snacks

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Boredom = hunger! However many snacks you think you need, pack more! My children are only quiet when they are sleeping or eating, so for their comfort and your sanity, I cannot recommend this enough!

Bring Toys

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Bring toys and games to keep your children entertained. However, be careful not to bring too many toys, as this can lead to arguments and fighting. Some good options include soft toys, books, and puzzles.

Car Games

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Even with snacks and sleep, your children’s will likely get bored at some point. We like to songs or play games to keep our children entertained. This is a great way to pass the time and keep your children engaged. You can also try playing eye-spy or counting cars.

Comfort

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If you’re driving around your children’s nap time or in the evening/night, bring their bla

nket and any other bedtime comforts they may have. In the daytime or summertime, car blinds work wonders.

Relax

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Relax and enjoy the journey. It is important to stay calm and relaxed, as this will help your children to be more relaxed too. If you are feeling stressed, take a break and stretch your legs.

Lorraine Claire Photography– based in Woking, Surrey- specialises in newborn, baby, and maternity photography.
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