Trip with baby

Going out with a baby is quite exciting. Especially at the beginning, many moms and dads are initially unsure: What do I need to remember? What if my baby is hungry or gets tired? But with a little preparation, it's not a problem to experience small or big adventures with a baby. Here you will learn what to consider when planning outings with a baby.

When can I go outside with my baby?

In general, walks and short outings are possible within the first weeks and months after your baby's birth once you have completed your individual postpartum period. Because: a is important for your child to settle in, for you to recover physically from the birth, and for your family to get to know each other in peace.

LILLYDOO Midwife Sissi advocates for an extensive postpartum period of up to eight weeks. Whether it actually lasts that long is up to you — the so-called early postpartum period in the first ten days after birth should be observed by mother and child to give the body time to recover. Additionally, it is very individual when you first venture outside as a small family. Many new parents find daily walks beneficial. Especially with little sleep and when the head is about to explode between diaper changes and burps, fresh air can work wonders. As a rule of thumb: take enough time as a family to recover from the birth and get to know your baby in peace before making plans. Your gut feeling, as in many other questions, is also a good advisor here. Furthermore, you should consider your individual daily condition and that of your baby when planning. An exciting day out can be exhausting if you or your baby are already tired.

Tip: Start with small rounds around the block and gradually increase the duration of your outings – this way, you can slowly get used to the new situation and gain confidence.

What is the best way to transport my baby on the go?

Even on the go, you want your baby to always feel safe and secure. It is important that it always has a protected retreat, for example in the form of a or a .

Baby carrier or stroller? Both options have advantages and disadvantages. One Carry or a baby wrap The point of being on the go is to let your baby feel your presence, your scent, and your heartbeat, which can provide security even in unfamiliar surroundings. This way, your little explorer is always with you, able to sleep or observe their environment protected. For longer tours and hikes, a so-called Kraxe is recommended, in which you can carry your baby on your back from about eight months of age. A Kraxe distributes your child's weight from your shoulders to your hips, making carrying more comfortable, especially on longer, more strenuous trips.

Also a Stroller offers certain advantages: It allows you to move without the weight of your baby and has additional storage space to carry diaper bags, picnic baskets, and more. Some strollers and buggies are specially designed for off-road excursions. Large tires, flexible steering, and strong suspension make them comfortable for you and your baby on country paths or in the woods. Tips for choosing the right stroller are provided by midwife Sissi in the video:

Whether you ultimately choose a carrier or a stroller depends on the destination and the length of the trip, as well as your personal preference. Regardless of which mode of transportation you use for your outing, your baby should not be sitting in the carrier or lying in the stroller for hours; instead, they should be able to stretch and explore their surroundings from time to time. A soft crawling blanket, on which you can take a picnic break during your outing, is therefore always a good idea.

What are suitable excursion destinations?

Once you get the hang of it, nothing will stand in the way of big and small excursions, and you can set out to explore your surroundings together with your little explorer. We have collected some popular destinations that may serve as inspiration for your next trip:

• Zoo or animal park: The classic among outings with children. No wonder, as there is so much to discover and marvel at. Another advantage: the paths are also manageable with strollers, and a child-friendly infrastructure with changing rooms, playgrounds, and more is usually available.

• Excursion into the forest: The earthy smell in the nose, pinecones and moss between the fingers: Even in the forest, there is plenty for little explorers to discover. The trip becomes especially enjoyable when you combine it with a picnic in the green.

• Hiking: Mit der richtigen Vorbereitung und Ausrüstung sind Wanderungen als Familie auch kein Problem. Es ist am besten, sich vorher professionellen Rat in einem Fachgeschäft einzuholen. Besonders wenn es das erste Mal ist, dass Sie gemeinsam wandern, sollten Sie eine Route wählen, die nicht zu lang oder anstrengend ist und die Gelegenheit bietet, unterwegs Pausen einzulegen.

You can find more excursion tips, for example, on the website , where you can search for family-friendly destinations in your region or on local family websites.

What should I pay attention to when I'm out with my baby?

The right preparation is half the battle when you're out and about with your baby. That's why we've compiled the most important tips for all kinds of outings:

• In der Kleidung The motto in case of doubt is always "onion look". ;) With multiple layers of natural fibers such as wool or silk, your child is also dressed appropriately for changing temperatures. Especially on longer trips, it is also advisable to have spare clothes with you, if they are not already in the diaper bag.

• Even when you're on the go and especially in warm weather, you should ensure that your baby always sufficiently drinks . If you are breastfeeding, a scarf or large cloth at busy excursion destinations provides a little privacy and the necessary quiet for your baby. When your child is having a bottle, it's best to bring a thermos with warm water so you can easily prepare their meal in the woods, park, or by the lake.

• With the right Timing Will your excursion be a complete success: If you're flexible, it's best to plan your trip at a time when it's not too crowded, for example in the morning or during the week instead of on the weekend. By – especially at the beginning – allowing a bit more time for even small tours, you reduce stress for yourself and your baby. It's best to set out so that your baby is full and freshly changed at the start of the trip. If travel, for example by car or train, is necessary, also make use of your little explorer's nap time for that.

• Mit dem richtigen Gleichgewicht zwischen Planning and Flexibility nothing can disturb your peace so quickly. If, for example, you get an impression of the surroundings and local offerings (such as child-friendly cafes, parks, changing facilities) before the trip, it will save you some stress in the end.

What should I bring with me on the trip with my baby?

• Baby carrier or stroller

• Changing mat

• Replacement Diapers

• Wet wipes

• Change of clothes

• Baby food or formula (if you are not breastfeeding)

• Water bottle

• Disinfectants

• Plastic bag or wet bag for dirty clothes or diapers that you cannot dispose of while on the go

• Rain and/or sun protection

• Mull cloth as a versatile tool (for example, as a sun hat, cuddly cloth, or nursing scarf)

• your child's favorite toy

You see, you don't need much to go on a trip with your baby. Often, it doesn't have to be a long or spectacular outing: you can enjoy the time outdoors together almost anywhere – and have fun anyway.