Prior to having a baby, my work required me to travel frequently. I was also taking a leisure trip every few months simply because I wanted to see as much of the world as I could, and now that I’m in London, it’s the best place to be for exploring UK and the rest of Europe.
I would pack a weekend bag, find the cheapest flight and accommodation, and I would be off for the weekend.
Then COVID happened, and the travel bug inside me had to go into hibernation. When the borders were opened, I was already a Mom with an infant son. While changes have to be made, there are certain things which I felt shouldn’t be compromised, and one of which is the desire to see more of the world. As a result, I decided to travel with Neo.
Before Neo turned one, he has been to 7 cities across the globe. For one of the trips, we flew from London > Singapore > Perth, and we travelled for approximately 31 hours (and I had Neo strapped onto me for close to 24 hours).
For almost all of these trips, my husband was with us, so it was much easier to deal with any challenges that came my way.
However, I decided to do a solo trip with Neo in July this year, and boy, what a trip! I didn’t know what I was thinking (and perhaps, I really wasn’t thinking…) but I decided to explore Venice, the city of bridges and canals with my one-year old boy.
Prior to traveling with him, there were a few health scares which caused quite a fair bit of anxieties for me, but overall, it was a trip with so many wonderful memories that I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Here are some tips to share if you intend to travel solo with your little ones:
- Use backpacks
If you’re traveling on your own, it’ll be challenging having a wheely case while pushing a pram. Therefore, I always travel with a backpack that I can carry on, and a lightweight pram. We have the Ickle Bubba Globe Max stroller, and that has been a breeze to travel with. If I need to pack a little more, I’d use a roomier backpack for checking in. So, essentially, I’d have 2 backpacks (one which I can wear on my back, and the other in front), while leaving my hands free for the pram.
- Pack light but right
If I’m traveling for more than 3 days, I’d pack just enough nappies, formula and snacks to last for around 2 days. I would then buy locally, as it’ll allow me to explore local produce and brands, but also enable me to have more space in my luggage for other essentials. And if you're going somewhere really hot, bring a portable fan.
- Offer plenty of distractions
Most flights within Europe will be between 1 to 4 hours. Often, Neo will be having a nap during the flight, but when he’s not asleep, and sitting on my lap, it is essential to have plenty of distractions for him. I’d make sure I pack different varieties of snacks and toys. I will also pack some painter’s tape, stickers, crayons and bubble wrap… anything to keep him entertained for the flight, but also at the accommodation. Here's a list of travel toys which would do the job to entertain your babies.
Nope, sorry, the ice-cream is for Mommy only
- Dummies and ear defenders for the flight
I was initially hesitant to offer Neo a dummy, but I realised that dummies have their benefits and is extremely helpful for soothing him. I offer him the dummy (or the bottle) during take-off and before landing, as it’ll help ease any air pressure in his ears. I also bought a pair of ear defenders to block out any loud noises.
- Bring a baby carrier
I have several baby slings and carriers and when Neo was younger (before 6 months), I would wear him in a cloth carrier (e.g: Baby K’tan) and now that he’s much heavier, an Ergobaby fits us better. Baby carriers are great to get around with, and when I was in Venice, where I have to cross multiple bridges, having the carrier is a lifesaver.
- Always pack medication and a thermometer
Always be prepared for the unexpected. During several of our travels, Neo fell ill, and we had to ensure we have the right medication on-hand to ease his discomfort. Pack the usuals, such as Calpol and teething gels/ powder.
- Ensure your data works locally
This might seem obvious, but it is so important to not assume that your mobile phone provider is equipped for the country you’re traveling in. Upon checking out of the airport, test your mobile phone and send a text to your next-of-kin and ensure that your data is working seamlessly. The last thing you need when you have an emergency is not having data to get in touch with your loved ones.
- Bring a small baby monitor
If you’re traveling alone, it is important to bring a baby monitor as you might need to step away from your baby for a few minutes at times. For example, when you need to take a shower after your baby is in bed. I have a Lollipop baby monitor and that has been very useful during our travels.
- Be thick-skinned when it comes to long queues or when needing help
I have always been a little shy when it comes to asking for help. But when I’m traveling on my own, it is necessary to ask for help and accept help when offered. In addition, some popular touristy places will allow you to cut ahead of the queue if you have an infant. Simply walk up to the security and ask if that is a possibility. I managed to cut the very long queue on my last day in Venice and got to view the interior of St Mark’s Basilica with Neo.
- Don’t overpack your day, space your time out
Prepare a checklist for your ‘must-see’ and leave a few things in the ‘optional’ pool. When traveling with a baby, everything needs to be spaced out. For example, when Neo gets fussy and does not want to stay in his pram, I had to stop everything and simply let him explore. Though I spaced everything out, I did still get everything that I wanted done, and it was definitely less intense for both of us.
Hope the above has been helpful, and after the trip, it’s time to perhaps book for a massage to get over those weary shoulders!
