One of the best parts about being a mother is making memories with your children. Every mother knows that parenting isn’t always a cakewalk; it takes a lot of patience, hard work, and often little sleep or acknowledgment. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or juggling motherhood and a career like 50% of American moms, booking a vacation is essential to your peace and sanity. On top of the health benefits of taking a vacation, it’s the perfect time for you to relax, unwind and make memories with your little ones. Whether you identify as a vacationing pro or it’s your first getaway with kids in tow, keep reading for all the essentials you need for a vacation as a new mother.
Multi-Functional Pieces
Multi-functional wardrobe pieces are vacation staples for a new mom, whether you’re nursing or not. But, if you’re nursing your little one, they’re a must-pack in your suitcase. Opt for maxi dresses and button-down tops that make feeding your baby easy. The last thing you want to struggle with on vacation is uncomfortable clothes that don’t suit this need. In addition to nursing-friendly pieces, an oversized scarf works great to keep you comfortable during temperature fluctuations on a plane or in the car and can double as a coverup for you and even a blanket for your baby.
White Noise Machine
You may be obsessed with the miraculous ability of your baby’s white noise machine to help them sleep at home, and thankfully, they’re easy to find in a lightweight, portable option. Babies, the same way adults have difficulty falling and staying asleep in new surroundings like hotels. Ensure your baby is sleeping through the night, is well-rested, and stays in a good mood by packing a white noise machine.
Functional Footwear
Before you had your baby, you might get by on vacation exploring the new location in a pair of cute wedges or comfortable flats. But, since strollers are bulky and hard to travel with, chances are you’ll be toting your baby in a baby carrier or wrap while on your trip. Wear comfortable and supportive shoes; the wedges can wait until your little one can walk. Investing in a pair of nice tennis shoes and supportive sandals is essential and likely all you’ll need on your getaway.
Extra, Extra!
Most mothers pack plenty of extra clothing for their babies and small children on vacation because, let’s face it, kids can be messy, and they’re accident prone. While that’s smart for the little ones, it’s smart to pack extra clothing for yourself as well. Kids can spit up on you, wipe dirty hands, and anything else. It’s a good idea to pack at least two options to wear each day. While it takes up a lot of luggage space, this period of needing to pack this way is fleeting, and just like other aspects of motherhood, you will miss these days when they’re gone.
Preparedness Kit
Luck favors the prepared, and as a new mother, sometimes it can feel like you need all the luck. Preparedness can be a literal lifesaver as well as a sanity saver. On top of a small first aid kit, toiletries that you and your child need, and things like sunscreen, there’s even more with which you can arm yourself. Healthy snacking options will help keep you and your child happy and energized while traveling. Extra charging cables for your iPhone or tablets are also essential. Any creature comfort that you know helps keep your little one happy, whether six months or three years old, are key to making travel easiest on everyone.
A Curated Carry-on
While all the above items are must-packs for new moms, there is one other thing to consider – the reality that your luggage could be delayed or lost. Try and pack these same items in lesser quantities in a carry-on bag if you’re flying to your destination. That way, if anything happens to your luggage, you’re not scrambling or stressing that your little one doesn’t have everything they need.
Traveling as a new mother can be daunting but, at the same time, magical. Though your child won’t remember this trip or the memories made, you will. Happy Trails!
p.s. Related posts:
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Family Reunion Vacations: North Captiva Island, Florida
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Family Reunion Vacations: San Antonio, Texas!
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