When can I travel with my baby?
There is nothing scientific about traveling with a young baby.
It is best to use common sense, such as a newborn does not need
to go to the rainforests of South America. However, young infants
travel nicely by car for visits with relatives. When travelling
overseas with a child, it is best to consult a local travel clinic
to obtain the latest information about required vaccines. The Center
for Disease Control (CDC) has traveller's information on their website
at www.cdc.gov
for the public's use.
Going out in a stroller:
- Newborns can go out when dressed for weather conditions
- Dress baby according to the weather, remembering their body
temperature is like an adults, so many layers are not needed in
mild temperatures
- Put a hat on your baby when it is cool or cold outside
- Take along an extra blanket just in case
- Avoid taking baby out in extreme weather conditions
- Strangers like to peer in a stroller, ask them not to touch
the baby
Traveling by car:
- Most babies do fine in the car - they sleep through most of
the journey You will need to make more frequent stops than before
for diaper changes, feedings, and just to hold baby
- Toddlers and young children need to stretch their legs, use
the "potty", and have a snack at frequent intervals
Traveling by airplane:
- Most babies and young children travel by plane without many
problems
- Avoid airplane travel for at least the first month of life
- Avoid contact with strangers on the plane when flying with a
young infant
- Breastfeed or offer a bottle to baby during take off and landing
- Bring snacks and drinks for toddlers and young children
- After 2 months of age, you may give baby a dose of acetaminophen
(Tylenol) shortly before the flight to relieve possible discomfort
in the ears
Chicago Area Travel Clinics:
- Children's Memorial Medical Center 773/880-4649
- Lutheran General Hospital 847/318-9320
- Wyler's Children's Hospital (U of C) 773/702-3853
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