My husband and I grew up in different countries. Our families live far from Australia, which turns each visit into a trek with our kids. Each journey has made us slightly wiser when it comes to holidays and travel with little ones.

Here are 8 top tips that have made our journey that little bit easier each time:

1.Take at least two pairs of spare clothes for yourself and baby.

I learnt this the hard way. I brought one spare pair. I was vomited on twice. Needless to say it was a very long flight.

2. Use a baby carrier at the airport when checking in and collecting bags.

This comes in handy when travelling alone or if you have other kids. You will need your hands to pick up bags, get your passport or money out, hold one of your baby’s siblings, hands, bags or toys…

3. Ask for assistance!

Don’t be shy to ask for help. If you are travelling alone and need someone to mind your baby whilst you pop to the bathroom, ask the cabin crew. You can also ask the airline for special assistance when you leave the plane. On arrival alone with baby and kids in Sydney, I received amazing assistance, which included an airport buggy for the kids and I, quick access through passport control and help with luggage collection and customs.

4. Invest in an in flight bassinet sleep cover

There is an Australian mother who invented the world’s first sleep cover that can be used on an in flight bassinet. She should be given the Nobel Prize award. Parents and passengers will appreciate her invention. This genius pop-up canopy blocks out the light from the exit signs, toilet lights and nosy passengers. I used one of these with my third baby and it worked like an absolute dream. The combo of the dark cocoon and plane white noise really did help her to sleep just like a baby! It is definitely well worth the investment as it can be used on any pram too! Don’t forget to book your bassinet prior to your flight.

5. Take enough formula, food, and snacks

Sometimes planes are delayed for long periods. I remember being stuck on a plane for an hour before we took of with a wriggly toddler on my lap. In that one long hour we went through milk, snacks and I was so grateful that I over packed rather than under packed.

6. Bring Sleep Clothes

If you are travelling on a night flight make sure that you change baby or toddler into their PJ’s and slip on their sleeping bag or swaddle as per usual. If they go to sleep with a comforter or dummy, ensure that you give this to them when you expect them to go to sleep. Sticking to your little darling’s routine is vital to ensure that they go to sleep and feel settled in their new environment.

7. Take sufficient nappies and spare clothes if toilet training

Unfortunately there have been many parents who have been caught out when their little ones have got gastro on a plane journey. Be prepared with sufficient stock of nappies and wipes. If your child is toilet training ensure that you have enough underwear and changes of clothes if needed.

8. Take your pram to the plane door

Take your pram with you and check it onto the plane just before you board. They often let you take it right up to the plane’s door. Ensure that your baby sticks to their routine and sleeps without distraction by investing in a great quality, breathable, block out pram cover. If baby sticks to their usual sleep routine, they will be much happier and therefore so will you be happy. As mentioned above, there is a multi-purpose pram cover on the market in Australia that can be used on both prams and in flight bassinets.

 

Good luck! Happy Travels!

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