Enjoy your first vacation with your baby

Tips and expert advice for your first vacation with your baby

Since the arrival of your little adventurer, many of your routines and activities may have changed. Holidays might feel very different too: now you have to pack an extra bag and think ahead to anticipate what might come up. At LILLYDOO, we want to help you plan your first vacation, so in the following text we answer the most common questions—for example, how long to wait before organizing your first trip, which destination to choose, how to avoid surprises, and what to pack in your suitcase.

Ready? Take note, because first times are, without a doubt, meant to be enjoyed.

How to choose the destination?

Although your baby can travel from the first weeks of life, only you can decide when the time feels right. Sometimes we push ourselves before we’re ready. Relax—your little adventurer has many years ahead to enjoy vacations with the family.

Keep in mind that the first year, especially, is a learning period for everyone. You may feel more comfortable choosing domestic destinations that are relatively close by. You likely have plenty of places to discover! You can start with short trips near home to practice for those first vacations. How about a getaway to the mountains? Is the beach nearby? Natural settings and picturesque villages are wonderful for strolling with your baby in a baby carrier backpack.

If you decide to travel to more distant destinations, jet lag usually isn’t a problem. Up to six months, babies follow their own internal rhythm and aren’t yet very sensitive to day and night. If your baby is older, it may be a good idea to take advantage of overnight flights so they can rest on the plane. When choosing where to travel, it helps to consider a few things: whether you speak the language, whether there are healthcare resources, and whether the transportation network is good. Some destinations require vaccinations in advance and may not be suitable for babies under one year old.

What should you pack in your suitcase?

When packing your suitcase for your first vacation with your baby, keep in mind that you’ll need to bring more than you would for an older child—but be careful, you don’t need to pack the whole house. When traveling with a baby, it’s easy to add endless “just in case” items. To avoid this, we encourage you to make a list of what you’ll truly need for your little adventurer. That list should include:

Comfortable clothing suitable for the climate of the place you're traveling to . Bodysuits and pajamas are essential, as are tracksuits and sweatshirts. Pack one extra outfit per day because, as you’ve probably already noticed, it’s easy for babies to get dirty after eating or during a diaper change.

Ideally, estimate how many you usually need each day and add a few extra, just in case. You already know that, and we’ll deliver them before your trip. If you already enjoy the monthly diaper box from LILLYDOO, remember to adjust the delivery date so your diapers arrive on time. Also add our to continue caring for your baby’s skin during their first holidays.

If your baby is formula-fed or on mixed feeding, don’t forget to pack a bag with a couple of bottles, the formula you’ll need for those days, and a few spare pacifiers if they use them.

Have you thought about the toiletry bag? Just as you’ll bring your own toiletries, your baby will need theirs too. Remember to pack the soap you use at home for bathing, a soft sponge, a small comb, and the oil you use to hydrate their skin after the bath. Our is perfect to accompany you during these moments.

Don’t forget to always carry a to keep everything within reach during the trip and your outings. Pack a change of clothes, two or three diapers, and wipes in it. It may also be a good idea to bring a . Remember that at LILLYDOO we have super soft changing pads that are gentle on your baby’s skin.

  • In the case of babies over one year old, it is advisable to take sunglasses to prevent the sun from damaging their eyes.

  • Of course, you should always carry <\/br> SPF 50+ protective sunscreen cream to prevent the sun from harming your baby’s delicate skin. This applies to your first vacation, but also to the rest of the year.

  • If your little adventurer has any manta de peluche para acurrucarse o manta de apego , it’s a good idea to take it with you on the trip. It can help them feel secure during moments that make them nervous or in unfamiliar situations.

  • Finally, keep in mind what will be most comfortable for you when traveling with your baby. The mochilas portátiles are a fantastic solution in these cases, since they allow you to move quickly and travel light. If you prefer a shopping cart , try to keep what you bring on your first vacation as compact as possible to avoid major difficulties when visiting places or using transportation.

How can you avoid unforeseen events?

As we mentioned, traveling with your baby should be a joyful experience. To help make that happen, it’s essential to plan ahead for any unexpected situations that may arise. While this isn’t always possible, here are some basic recommendations to keep in mind for your first vacation:

  • It can be helpful to locate nearby health centers and emergency services close to where you’re staying. That way, it will be much easier to respond quickly if your baby gets sick or if something unexpected happens.

  • If you have started complementary feeding , check whether your destination has a place where you can cook or whether restaurants can accommodate your needs.

  • Have you thought about your mode of transportation? Whether by car, train, plane, or boat, your little adventurer can travel by any means. Consider luggage capacity and comfort, the potential costs involved, and the documentation required for each option. When in doubt, it’s best to check the FAQ section of the chosen provider’s website.

  • Bring a few trash bags with you for used diapers in case there are no bins nearby during your outings. This simple step saves you from carrying a dirty diaper in your changing bag.

  • If your baby is breastfed or, alternatively, formula-fed, they won’t need anything else until six months. From then on, it’s advisable to carry a bottle of water (or a sippy cup if they no longer drink from a cup) for moments when your little adventurer needs it.

  • Diaper diaper rash can be quite bothersome. If your baby often experiences episodes like this, they can easily happen during trips. Remember to carry some water-based ointment with you so you have it on hand if it appears.

  • It’s a fantastic idea to put together a small first aid kit with a thermometer, paracetamol, saline solution, gauze, band-aids, and your baby’s doctor’s card.

  • And, of course, don’t forget to document your little adventurer’s first holidays. If you plan to travel within Spain, you’ll only need the DNI (if they have one), the family book, and their Social Security card. If you’re traveling to Europe, you should also carry the European Health Insurance Card . This card is essential to cover any medical assistance during your stay abroad; and not just for your baby—you should apply for it before starting your trip. It is free and valid for two years. If you’re traveling outside Europe, you’ll need their passport (valid for five years) or even a visa, depending on the destination. Check directly with the embassy of the country in question to find out whether you need additional documentation.

You’ve got this! Remember, there may be a setback or an unpredictable situation, but don’t worry—it’s part of the great adventure of being parents. Relax and enjoy your first vacation with your baby.