Embarking on your first family adventure is incredibly exciting and filled with anticipation for shared discoveries and precious moments. However, travelling with a breastfed baby might seem a little daunting. It's natural to wonder how you'll manage feeding schedules, maintain hygiene, and ensure the comfort of your baby and those around you.
Rest assured, breastfeeding and travelling with your baby can be manageable with careful planning and a positive outlook. This guide will equip you with practical tips and strategies to make your journey smooth and fulfilling, allowing you to focus on creating cherished memories with your little one.
Pre-Travel Planning
Planning ahead is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip with your breastfed baby. Start by researching breastfeeding-friendly destinations and accommodations. Some hotels and resorts offer amenities like private nursing rooms, designated breastfeeding areas, or refrigerators for storing expressed milk, which can facilitate breastfeeding during your travels.
Next, prepare a baby travel packing list to ensure you have all the essentials:
- Nursing bras: Comfortable and accessible bras are a must-have for easy feeding on the go.
- Nursing pads: To manage any leaks and keep you feeling fresh.
- Breastfeeding cover: A cover offers privacy and discretion while nursing in public spaces.
- Breast pump: A portable pump is essential if you plan to express milk while travelling.
- Storage bags: Cooler bags are helpful for safely storing expressed breast milk during your journey.
Finally, familiarise yourself with airline policies regarding breastfeeding and bringing breast milk on board. If you're planning a road trip, map out potential stops with breastfeeding in mind, ensuring you have comfortable and private spaces to nurse your baby.
Navigating Transportation
One of the critical things to remember while travelling is maintaining good breastfeeding hygiene. Washing or sanitising your hands before each breastfeeding session is essential to ensuring your baby’s safety.
If you’ll be handling expressed milk, store it in a clean, airtight bottle. While you might not be able to refrigerate the bottles in transit, you can use an insulated bag with ice packs to keep the milk fresh.
Travelling by Plane
The change in ear pressure during take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for your baby, and you might feel anxious about keeping them comfortable while minimising disruption to fellow travellers. To help them manage this, try breastfeeding during these times, as sucking and swallowing can help alleviate ear pressure.
Choose a comfortable breastfeeding position for both you and your baby, and consider using a breastfeeding cover for added privacy. If you can get one, a window seat can offer more space and seclusion.
Travelling by Car
Travelling by car offers the benefit of a more private and familiar space for you and your baby. If you're taking a road trip, plan for regular stops to allow for comfortable breastfeeding sessions.
You can also experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find what works best in the car. For example, a nursing pillow or rolled-up towel can support your baby and provide additional comfort.
When you’re not breastfeeding, familiar toys and engaging in interactive games can help keep your baby entertained during the journey.
At Your Destination
Remember that travelling across time zones may affect your baby's feeding schedule. Stay attuned to their hunger cues and adjust the nursing schedule accordingly to ensure they still receive the required baby milk intake.
Here are some additional tips for navigating breastfeeding as you explore new places:
- Seek comfortable nursing spots: Find quiet and private spaces to nurse your baby, whether you're at the airport, your hotel, or exploring tourist attractions.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain your milk supply, especially when flying.
- Pack snacks: Keep nutritious snacks handy to maintain your energy levels.
- Be prepared for unexpected situations: Delays and changes in plans can occur, so pack extra supplies and stay flexible.
- Communicate your needs: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance or accommodations when needed.
Cherishing the Breastfeeding Journey
Pre-planning and adaptability are your allies in ensuring a stress-free travel experience with your breastfed baby. As you embark on this new adventure, remember to prioritise your well-being. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods that affect milk supply will help you stay healthy and maintain your milk production.
Most importantly, enjoy this special time with your little one! Travelling with your baby creates memories that will last a lifetime. Cherish the journey, the shared discoveries, and the unique bonding experience that breastfeeding provides.
As you navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood, remember that you don't have to do it alone. At Hegen Lactation Centre, we're here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking community or expert breastfeeding guidance, our comprehensive resources, such as our Caring For Your Newborn Class. can empower you on your parenting journey.