Traveling with babies as a single parent is challenging but does not need to be a burden (Image by Flickr User BohPhoto). If you, as a single parent, decide to travel with your baby for pleasure, then you simply need to do some very good planning in advance.
First of all, if you are thinking of flying with your baby, try to select a travel destination that will allow you to catch a direct flight with no stopovers or layover time. If possible, arrange to have another adult with you to accompany you. Ask someone you trust and whose habits you know well. Provide incentives. Promise something nice in return. If this is not possible, do not be shy and ask for help from people wearing uniforms. Most train stations and airports have personnel working the floor, so ask them to help you carry your bags or call you a taxi. But never under any circumstances leave your baby with anyone, regardless of what uniform they wear. If you need to go to the bathroom, take your baby with you. Most restrooms in the United States are equipped with baby-changing tables. Many airports have family rooms where you can change your baby, rest and wait for your flight. Buy your tickets online; electronic tickets automatically generate boarding passes, so you don't have to wait to get them at the airport.
When flying as a single parent with a baby, buy your baby a separate ticket and bring a car seat with you (rentals are expensive, so you might as well bring one, but if you have to check your car seat in, put it in a large plastic bag and wrap it well). Consider the length of travel and schedule your flights so that your baby can sleep most of the way.
Pack a backpack with diapers, a simple medicine kit, toys and 2-3 changes of baby clothes. For yourself, wear loose comfortable clothes and pack a couple of extra tops as well. Chances are you'll spill something or miss the time to change your baby's diaper. Bring some spare clothes as carry-ons, underwear and socks for a couple of days in case your flight is delayed or your luggage gets lost.
When traveling by car as a single parent with a baby, arrange your itinerary with plenty of stopovers. At stopovers, park your vehicle in the shade and keep your windows open to have plenty of fresh air circulating inside the car. Use air conditioning, but do not forget to get fresh air every few hours. Most air conditioners omit chemicals that can give your baby a headache or even a skin rash, especially if your car trip is long. Do not leave your baby in the car unattended, not even for a few minutes. If you need to get something quick at a gas station, ask the local personnel folks for help, don't be shy. You are asking for help not because you are lazy, but because you are traveling with a baby. Pack plenty of chlorine-free purified bottled water and keep yourself and your baby well hydrated.
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