Out and about with baby

Introduction

Your first trip out with your new baby can be daunting, even if you’re just popping to the shops. But once you've been out a few times, you'll soon get the hang of it.

Love a list? Read our handy checklist on what you need for taking baby out for the first time.

When can you take a newborn out?

There are no set rules as to when you can take a newborn out - you and your travel-size human can go out whenever you’re feeling up to it. There’s no reason to wait, it just requires a bit of planning and preparation. Yes, going out for the first time can be daunting and doing more things with fewer hands takes a little getting used to. So, it might be good to go with a friend or your partner the first couple of times, until things get easier. If you’re unsure about anything or you’re feeling a little anxious, chat to your midwife or health visitor.

Places to go with a newborn

The good thing about your newborn is they’re compact and light but can’t run around. You can take them almost anywhere – enjoy it while it lasts! There are a few things to bear in mind though:

• Are there baby changing facilities nearby?

• Is it crowded and noisy?

• If you’re eating out maybe try a family-friendly place instead of a fancy restaurant, it will probably be more relaxing for you that way.

• Is there step-free access? Or do you have to manoeuvre loads of stairs with your buggy?

• If you’re using public transport will you be travelling off-peak?

• Plan ahead to consider where you will feel comfortable breastfeeding, it might be helpful to ask breastfeeding friends for suggestions.

Is your baby bag packed and ready?

Forget the designer handbag it’s all about the baby bag these days. Before you leave, do a quick check to make sure you’ve packed all you need for going out and about with baby. Don’t worry, this will become second nature over the next few weeks:

• Nappies. Not just one or two. Four or five.

• Cotton wool. Changing mat. Wet wipes. Bibs. Muslin squares... Check.

• A couple of outfit changes and a spare top for you too in case baby brings up their feed.

• If you're breastfeeding, pack breast pads and you may want a large shawl or muslin to make feeding in public more private.

• Don’t forget your keys, purse and a fully charged mobile.

• Keep expressed milk in a sterilised bottle in a cool bag and use within four hours.

• Formula feeding? You'll need an insulated flask of previously boiled hot water, a sterile container of pre-measured formula powder, and sterilised bottles and teats.

• For a fuss-free alternative to making up formula, pack ready-made formula in individual cartons.

• A baby sling can be a real lifesaver when you’re on the move and baby gets fussy in the buggy. They love snuggling up to you for comfort and you’ll love it too.

Travelling with a baby

Can’t wait for your first holiday away with baby? Here’s a few tips to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Things you might need:

• A lightweight buggy

• A baby sling

• A baby car seat. This is often permitted as an extra in your baggage allowance on flights. Check with your airline before you go. Just remember those buggy adapters, you might want to use the car seat on the pram to travel light(ish).

• A travel cot

• A travel steriliser

• A travel bottle warmer

• Formula if you’re not breastfeeding

• Baby’s favourite soft toy or blanket

• A first aid kit with infant paracetamol, medicines and sun protection

• Travel blackout blinds

• A monitor if your accommodation is big enough to require one. You’ll need to make sure you bring enough adapters of course.

For a more interactive and extensive list, check out travelling with baby on our Mother of all Checklists.

Travelling with a baby by car

• Time your journey round baby’s naps and factor in plenty of breaks.

• Take car window blinds for when baby is sleeping. A dark muslin tucked into a shut window is always a good backup plan.

• Line up a few nursery rhyme playlists on your phone. Or keep it classical – everyone’s a winner.

• Avoid rush-hour traffic.

• Do a test drive and make sure you have your car seat properly fitted to the correct safety standards.

• If you’re travelling alone with baby you may want a baby car mirror to keep an eye on your little one from the driver’s seat.

Travelling by public transport?

• Avoid travelling in rush hour, it’s really not pleasant.

• Plan the most direct route with the fewest awkward changes.

• Check for step-free access and lifts. Don’t forget the baby sling.