Panama City Beach here we come! Yes there are TWO WEEKS until our vacation so (since I am doing my own bit of packing) I thought I would share my advice and experience for packing with a small child/infant.
There are SO many things you need when you are going on vacation for a child. Things that aren't even in your normal every day life that you wouldn't think about packing.
First of all you need to think about where your child is going to sleep. We took a pack-n-play for my daughter to sleep in last year and plan to do the same this year. BUT if you have limited space, maybe you can call the hotel/condo and see if they have a crib, pull away bed, pack-n-play, or some other portable bed for your child to sleep in. Some nights my daughter would end up in the bed with us. I was still nursing and it was only in the wee hours of the morning. This is what she was use to at home though. I suggest trying to stick to your normal sleep schedule as much as possible or slightly adjust it as the days go on. Just remember that when you get home, your child will still be on vacation time if you change their normal routine too much.
Next thing to consider is food. If your baby is on formula, you should DEFINITELY bring enough formula for the entire trip so you can make sure you can get the good deals. What I highly suggest is buying snacks or foods that your child loves but doesn't get very often, that way when you are out at a restaurant, they have their pre-meal snack and are pre-occupied with it as well. And if you don't mind nursing in public then I wouldn't worry about a pump. But if you milk share or are a power pumper and you are flying, I would call the airline ahead to make sure they know you are bringing breastmilk on board and ask for any of the rules that go with that.
Okay so now that the two main factors are considered. Remember you are going to need two outfits per day. Plus an extra outfit, just in case. Also bring as many bathing suits as you have. If you can afford it, I suggest getting at least two bathing suits for your little one. That way they don't have to put on a cold one. Little ones just don't understand and won't want to put it on or will scream, so it will save you the headache.
Remember the sunscreen! I suggest BabyGanics because the FDA doesn't regulate sunscreen and this one is really the safest for baby on the market.
Also remember to bring any loveys and a backup if you have it. Also anything that will make the new place like home. If you do a bed time routine that includes reading, then bring books. If your child prefers a certain type of sippy cup, bring only that kind along. Children don't do well with change and this will make the adjustment easier and help you stay sane.
Other Quicklist Helpful Tips:
*Start preparing to pack a few days before you
travel. Keep a running list of things to take, or put items out on a
table or dresser as you think of them.
*Use a diaper bag with a waterproof lining and a shoulder strap.
*Be
prepared for leaky diapers and baby spit-up if you are traveling by airplane: Tuck an
extra outfit or two for your baby – and an extra shirt for you – into
your carry-on bag.
*Prevent leaks by packing medicines and toiletries in resealable plastic bags.
*Pack
each of your baby's outfits in its own zipped plastic bag so you don't
have to hunt around for tiny socks, shirts, and so on.
*Take your camera, battery charger, and an extra memory card.
*Take the phone number for your baby's healthcare provider in case you have questions while you're on the road.
Congratulations. You are now going on a trip with a child. It is no longer a vacation. But you will still have a blast!
Did I miss anything? Leave me a comment letting me know what is something you ALWAYS remember to pack. :)
