Traveling with an Infant
Missy Ryan12.27.18As Moms and Dads, the minute a baby enters our life we are changing schedules faster than we can say the baby’s full name. Lives get altered and we become last on the list. Being a Mom of six it did not go any different for me when my sixth child came into the picture. I typically take about 6 months to adjust to a new baby in my life. With that I mean I need to figure out when I can work, how I can work, who needs to be where, when and how.I know many believe traveling with an infant is something they would never even think of. Without shaming anyone for traveling with or without infants let’s just keep an open mind. Some of us who have had a few children find that changing everyone’s schedule can be difficult opposed to a first baby coming to join the family. Which leads me to my travel time with my newborn who was just a little over 2 months when I first took her to Walt Disney World. Let me give you some background information.
Each year my mom and my other daughter go to celebrate the life of a daughter I lost. I knew when my daughter Willow was born I would want to take her. Crazy? Maybe. However, I planned and knew to accept some imperfections and bumps in the road.Is it difficult to cart around an infant in Disney? Some would say yes, yet some may see it as I did. She was always in a seat, never needed a rest due to the fact she slept the entire time, did not care about characters, dining or swimming. Best part was that she was free!Prior to my travel I made sure to have everything lined up.What would I pack? I decided this process would start at least a few weeks in advance and I would set aside one luggage just for her.
I also purchased packing cubes. These allowed me to organize her sleepers, onesies, dress up outfits (which was my most favorite part…I mean an infant as Minnie Mouse? Yes, please!), socks, and other items needed.I also wanted to be prepared for the plane ride so as a formula fed baby I prepared a few 3-ounce bottles and brought along a can of powder. TSA will allow pre-made bottles and does not give mothers with babies a hard time. However, do allow yourself some extra time in the security line because each bottle will get tested and the bottles will be handled. I did request the agent please change gloves due to him handling several items and then touching my child’s food. They obliged without any issue.On a side note - even though infants fly for free you still MUST register them with the airline as a traveler. Some airlines will charge a tax for the infant. We typically fly Southwest, therefore there is no tax that needs to be paid.If you are bringing a stroller (which I did because my car seat carrier locks into the stroller frame, making life so easy) you can check that in as part of your luggage. If you want to have them store it under the plane, be sure to go to the check in desk at your gate and have an airline employee tag it before entering the plane. If you do not you will risk losing your spot in line and need to go back to the gate desk to get this done.Also, anyone with infants and children under a certain age (subject to change so I would advise checking ages before planning) may board the plane after the early bird boarders.
Again, this makes life so much easier! We were able to pick out our seats and chose the back of the plane, so we would have easy access to the bathrooms.On the plane I was sure to have access to all items needed and not put them in the overhead. Everything was within reach.As far as the resort, you can call ahead and request a pack and play or crib. These items are said to be non-guaranteed items, but I do not foresee you having a problem getting one placed in your room. WDW rooms will typically have a mini fridge which is great for bottle storage.Resorts will also have washer and dryers on site that are self-pay and self-wash making it easier to keep up with little one’s clothing.When I traveled with Willow (my then 2-month-old) I had my 6-year-old and Mom with me. The biggest challenge for me was doing the parks and busses without my husband who knows my routine.I made sure to bring a stroller I was comfortable folding and a backpack which would help me be hands free. Of course, with my Mom there she was able to assist with my 6-year-old as well as help with loading on and off of the bus. The bus drivers are very patient and helpful when getting on and off the bus if you need more hands.The parks are also equipped with baby stations that are air conditioned and have baby supplies for purchase should you run out. They are located throughout each park and easily spotted on the maps and your MDE app. Utilize these, they are there to make life easier for you!Take breaks, bring supplies, go at a pace that is comfortable for you. I enjoyed taking a slower pace and enjoying the no height requirement rides. People Mover, Carousel of Progress, It’s a Small World, Spaceship Earth, as well as several shows allowed me to still enjoy the parks and not feel I had to be disconnected from the fun.
Overall, I would say the most important factor in traveling with an infant or even a toddler would be preparation. It can be done. It does not have to be stressful or a complicated experience. I would do it again if given the choice.Currently my youngest one is going on 8 months. Our next adventure will be a Disney Cruise. I will have my husband and the rest of the crew with me this time, so I am sure things will go even more smoothly.Stay tuned for a blog about cruising with littles!If you have any questions about a vacation pertaining to Disney or other locations, please feel free to email me at missyr@wishesfamilytravel.com.Follow me on FacebookI look forward to planning and helping you make memories with your family!!