first vacation for newborn?

Question

well, my baby is due on may 9th and my husbands cousin (his best friend from childood) is getting married on july 22nd. we would really like to go, the only thing is that we live in TN and the wedding in in Palm Beach, FL. has anyone traveled this soon with a newborn? how did it go? what precautions should i take?

also, i plan on exclusively breastfeeding, so no bottles to worry about, and we are planning on going down several days before the wedding so we can take our time traveling ect.

oh, we're driving, not flying. we cant afford plane tickets, a hotel and a rental car all.

Answer 1

As long as the baby has at least the first round of shots, it should be okay. (You don't want an unvaccinated newborn handled by all kinds of people.)

Since you're driving, as long as you allow plenty of stops to feed at as close to a regular schedule as at home and change diapers, it should be hunky-dory. The baby will probably sleep most of the drive anyway - cars are like Ambien for most.

Good luck and have a good time! =)

Answer 2

Everything should be fine. Remember to bring along a few extra outfits, burp cloths, and diapers that are easily accessible is case of accident (spit up and such) Plan for frequent stops for feedings and diaper changes. I would also have some Infant gas relief drops on hand as it is a common problem among newborns. You do need to make sure the baby gets all immunizations on time, which might be hard since you will be traveling so soon after. Also your plans might be ruined by unexpected things at birth such as jaundice. Our little girl had jaundice and we had to go in every two days for blood work, so keep in mind that you may not be able to take the trip. I would be a little concerned about having a newborn around so many people. The one thing the docs stressed the most when we left the hospital is to keep her away from big crowds. Also take into consideration how YOU will feel and if you will be up to taking the trip. Road trips can wear you out in normal conditions, not to mention when you just had a baby and are worn out. I would also bring along some bottles and formula. I would say the best lesson I learned about having a baby was that they don't always agree with you plans. I'm not saying you won't be able to exclusively breast feed, having a baby is a lot of trial and error, so it's good to be prepared for anything. I would also map out where there are hospitals along your route in case anything unexpected comes up. I moved from GA to PA when I was 8 months pregnant. The night we got to PA I went into labor, so this came in handy, we knew exactly where to find the hospital. Talk to your doc and your soon to be pediatrician and get their opinions. They have a wealth of information.

Answer 3

I travelled with my four month old daughter overseas a few months back. I had no trouble travelling with her, and like you she is breastfed. While I was overseas we did do a car trip and all we did was stop a few times to feed and change our daughter as well as give her a chance to stretch out her limbs and get the blood flowing again. The only thing I can complain about is that she slept most of the way and then didn't want to sleep at night.
If you can try travelling at night, I know it;s hard but it'll keep her schedule and also allow you to still have "normal" (I use this word very loosely) hours.

Answer 4

I flew abroad with my baby at 2 months, there was no problem since they are at the age when they are still sleeping all the time. Driving is a little tougher, you can't nurse in the carseat so plan to stop for 30 minutes every 3 hours for feeding. You will probably need to sit in the back seat with her so she can see you and play with you while awake and you can pat her to sleep etc. Take lots of extras of everything!

Answer 5

My daughter was 5 months old for her first vacation. We traveled from Indiana to Arkansas. She was fine the whole time and never cried. BUT, the following year, when she was 17 months old, she hated every minute of it and fussed and cried about going home pretty much constantly. She also got sick. So, in my opinion, the younger they are, the better it is for traveling. I say take your baby with. It will be fine. Besides, everyone will just love to see him or her! Good luck.

Answer 6

I went from Louisiana to Ky and Tn on about a 3wk vacation with my 7 wk old son. It was very easy.. he slept mostly and we would stop frequently and I would walk him around and change him. He was the best baby.. my mom set with him in the back and kept an eye on him the whole trip. Make sure you bring plenty of juice or milk and extra clothes in the car with you.. also bring something to wash the bottles with.. otherwise take care and have fun.

Answer 7

This will actually be easier at this age, the older that they are the harder it is. The baby will be fine and you can put him in a carrier that you wear and transport him this way. Bring an infant carseat with you for when you get there. Try to feed the baby on take off and landing to avoid any problems with ears. Have fun.

Answer 8

I cant help you any, I am pregnant with my first. Due May 25th. My boyfriend and I live in Rhode Island, and all of his family is in Texas. He wants to go to Texas for Christamas. I have been wondering the same thing. So I'll be keeping an eye on your question! Good Luck and Congrats!

Answer 9

I live in AR and the longest trip we have traveled with my son is Branson (5 hour trip) he was 1 and it was HELL! My advice would be to leave enough in advance to make room for frequent stops. And have fun. Good Luck and congratulations.

Answer 10

I have there's really nothing to it since you are going to Florida keep your baby hydrated so that they dont get diarrhea or anything else. I traveled with my son and the doctor said as long as i had him hydrated he would be fine.