I love travelling. And, I am the kind of traveller who has to see everything. If something is tagged as boring, I need to feel that boredom too. So, you see, vacations with me are more work and they need a lot of planning and every hour has an agenda. I get some kind of high from all the planning itself.

But, well, ever since I entered my third trimester of pregnancy, I had not felt that rush. Once my baby turned 3 months old, I developed the confidence of taking a short trip by car. Some things fell in place, some didn’t and I have gathered some valuable tips(and more courage!) for my next trip !

So, let me pass on that knowledge to you –

1. Plan. Plan. And plan some more.

Well, remember when you travelled as a couple or solo and did not care if it was sunny or raining or whatever? That ship has sailed! Your baby is used to being comfortable and you need to keep it that way. Otherwise, that cute little baby can make your life a living hell. But, you already know that!

2. But, do not go crazy with the planning. Be flexible.

You do know that the show is essentially run by the baby, right? Especially when they are that small. You might have planned that you’ll stop for some snacks on the way and feed him. That monster of yours might have other plans. So be it. As long as you have planned well that what goes in the diaper bag, do not fret!

3. Patience is the key to happiness.

In general, in life, patience can take you places. But boy! What all can be achieved if you are patient as a parent! You can be happy forever. So, your plan didn’t work out. Stay calm. Your baby wants to get his diaper changed in the middle of nowhere. Well, stay calm! And there, see how you’ll enjoy your trip!

4. Keep all your equipments ready but know what to use when

A stroller, a baby carrier, diaper bag, car seat, etc. The list can be endless. Have it all or have a few. More important part is to know that using what would be more convenient.

For example – If the place has a lot of stairs, stroller would be a struggle. Research about the places you want to visit and be equipped.

For meals, you might want a stroller, if the baby does not sit independently yet.

I found baby-wearing was the most comfortable for us to get around. We used the Anoona sling by https://in.soulslings.com/ and I am forever indebted to the friend who gifted it and the soul group 🙂 (Lesson here – Have great friends 😀 )

5. Quick bites are better than elaborate buffets

Your little monster might lose it any moment! Buffets and thalis are meant to be relished and they can become really difficult if your baby demands to be held. Its easier if the meals are short and sweet like quick idli-dosa or a burger at McD.

6. Keep it simple

Always keep in mind that your decisions influence another human being now. If you are anything like me and like to explore everything a place has to offer, you need to take it easy buddy!

You need a very straight-forward plan with this little one. Go visit one or two places in a day. Do not try to squeeze in a lot of places in 24 hours. Take a breather and unwind a little. Stay for more days if needed.

7. Do not push to the extent that your baby gets cranky

Essentially, turn back to your relaxed abode, the moment you feel your baby is done exploring. It can be anything from hunger to boredom. The best thing is to stay safe and get back to your hotel and relax.

8.Change is great, but schedule is important.

Remember that you have to eventually get back to routine. If your baby is used to sleeping or napping at a certain time, try to maintain that. This will keep him happy and well, do I need to say it?? Baby happy means you’re elated. Isn’t it?

Being a parent, is a learning curve. These are few things that helped me in a decently successful first trip. It has made me quite confident for my next trips and I’m planning another one already!!

You can get in touch with me for more on how I planned things.

Images mostly from google.com and my little Ahaan’s first trip 🙂