I start to question what is essential as I’m packing my suitcase. I’ve been traveling my entire life and since then, lots of things have changed. Security is tighter at the airports, Mickey Mouse seems a lot shorter than he used to, and gas is way more expensive now. You know what hasn’t changed though? Luggage. It’s always seemed to me that when it comes to packing a bag, less is always more. Can someone please teach my son that?
Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, a binky, the sippy cup, water, and formula. That’s just the diaper bag. Don’t forget we also need to bring the pack-n-play, the stroller, car seat, and some extra toys. I hope I didn’t leave anything out. When it comes to Boy Wonder, there is no such thing as traveling light. Why didn’t anyone tell me that babies come with so much luggage.
I should have seen the warning signs back when Bex was pregnant. There was nothing more overwhelming than walking into Babies”R”Us for the first time. As we registered for baby gizmos, I knew absolutely nothing about, I started to question how much of that stuff we actually needed. Frankly, I still do.
Gone are the days when Bex and I could go away for a week or two with nothing but a pair of back packs. But that doesn’t mean that we have to rent a small Uhaul truck just for his accoutrements. Traveling with Boy Wonder requires more strategy, luckily this is one of IncrediDad’s superpowers.
Let’s say you’re going on a trip. We’ll be traveling to New York this summer so I’ll use that as an example. We’ll be staying with/near family who also have babies. Lucky for us, they are happy to lend things like a pack-n-play. Don’t worry if you’re not staying with family. Just call your hotel ahead of time and make sure they have a porta-crib available for your room.
Next step, don’t pack a suitcase full of diapers. Save yourself the room. Pack one diaper for every hour of travel time, plus two extras, and then buy a supply when you arrive. Or, if it’s more convenient for you, order a box from Amazon and have it shipped to your destination.
Stressing over everything you need to pack just isn’t worth it. Just pack the essentials. The baby will be fine. And so will you.
Do any of you have some Incredible Travel stories with your little ones? How did you handle the packing dilemma? Share your stories in the comments below.