Hi there! We are thinking about taking a weekend trip this summer with our daughter (now 3 months, will be 4-5 months when we go). We are just thinking something close like up north or Chicago, but are nervous about travelling with her. I am BF, so no issues with having to pack formula. Any ideas for places or suggestions to make the trip easier (on us and her)? Thanks! -J.
We travelled to Chicago for the first time when my daughter was 4 months and then to Traverse city when she was 15 months. Both times, we tried to limit our car rides to either nap time or bed time. Bed time works best because (as long as your baby sleeps well in the car), they sleep the entire trip. You get to your destination a little late but it was worth it for us. At least with nap time you get 2-3 hours of "easy" car time :)
we drive with our little guy a lot my parents are 8 hours away - my only suggestion is try to keep her in the car and away from stops because we did get a little cold the first trip when he was like 3 months so now we take turns running in to go to the bathroom and we wash real good and I breastfed in the car in the back - :) you will have a great time!!
Hi J.. we took a trip to chicago with my (then) 5 month old twins. We went by Amtrak train, which was cheaper than driving and parking.BONUS: the train had a bathroom available whenever I needed it! Passengers gave a lot of attention to my kiddies, and we had the grandparents along for extra hands.
We did the museums,Navy pier, etc..walked a TON and had a great time!
Remember to take car seats - the taxi's were very accomodating with these, but not every one had one. We used umbrella strollers so they were less bulky going in and out of stores and hotels.
We even took the subway to the museum exhibits. We spent 4 days there, and had a BLAST. It was just what we needed, and the kids were so much better than I was expecting them to be.
Check ahead to see if your hotel has a crib available,(many do) or you need to take your pack-n-play.
Tip the doorman whe you first get there, and they become an unbelievable helpful resource.
Hope this helps.
D.
Hey J., Our son is 6 months old and has traveled about 200 miles to my mom's house. The first time we did it he was 5 weeks old. The best bet is to leave at bedtime. We did that this past weekend so he had already eaten and in his pajamas. When we got to her house, we just transfered from car seat to pack'n'play and had no problems. Someone else mentioned not stopping and I 100% agree with that. Sometimes I'll sit in the back seat with our son as my husband drives. However if he sees me he will more than likely not sleep at all. Once our son is out of the car, he does NOT want to get back in, even if it's only for another 30-45 minutes. Of course if you have to get gas then that's not an option. If it is farther than one tank of gas I would plan on stopping where you know there's either a mall, nice McDonald's, or Babies 'r' Us. That gives you some places to walk around and usually have a decent spot to feed your daughter. Have fun!
