Bombay Baby

Baby's big travel adventure 

On to Elephanta Island... [own source]

When you have a baby then travelling may be quite daunting. But actually, going places with young children is very do-able and doesn't have to break the bank. 

I fly every few months with my family, usually within Europe. Then, in December 2018 we mixed things up a bit and went on our first long-haul journey as a family. Mumbai, India, was our destination where everyday life is pretty different to that of our own in the south of France. It was a great adventure; we went to an Indian wedding and we discovered lots of amazing places, but we took our time when we wanted to. Our baby girl enjoyed the senses explosion and our son loved the monkeys and the tuk-tuks. 

The food was a delicious highlight and the kids were eating the local food too (mostly the less spicy elements and no meat). We explored local restaurants and we relished the Pav Bhajis at the popular beach stalls. Drinks wise we stuck to bottled water, which the hotel supplied for free (and recycled the bottles). We also enjoyed the occasional fresh coconut from local vendors we'd pass.

Okay, let's go somewhere!

Destination

When you choose your destination think about: what you want to do (recharge/relax, city break, visit family/friends...), when you want to go, and your budget. There are plenty of exciting cost effective places, and check out some baby/toddler recommended holidays in Europe. 

Whatever destination tickles your fancy look into the weather for your dates. Off season will be cheaper but you don't want to be stuck in the Monsoon or hurricane season. When you've decided on a location check out the local news and political situation, it's useful to be aware of what's going on in a new place.

Plan ahead

• If your budget is tight then plan a trip before your baby turns two - under twos almost never pay for flights, just airport taxes
• Passports - all children need their own passport. Take time to sort them
• Visas - children also need their own visa. Some countries have e-visas which are quicker to get, but lots of information is needed
• Tropics/developing countries - ask your GP about any vaccines that you and your baby will need. They may also have some useful advice for your trip
• Think about places to stay:
• Hotels are advisable in a totally new culture
• Instant apartments are cost effective and offer flexibility, this option is perfect in a comparable culture
• Mobile homes give extra comforts for camping trips
• Plan your mode(s) of transport at your destination to get around easily and safely

Packing

Parents often pack for every eventuality and more. I would definitely recommend not to over pack. You'll be schlepping your luggage and trying to use stuff because you have it with you. There will likely be a washing service so you can reuse your things.

Airlines

Airlines have a lot of rules when it comes to carry-on/hold luggage. Each airline has its own policy, so check the requirements online. Airlines always have a good arrangement when it comes to baby food/drink and bulky baby equipment. 

On board

• Odd-sized luggage - two pieces are generally free, but check the airline’s website. A stroller and a travel cot are good options
• Milk/water bottles and baby food - you can bring these on board, just show the items (with your baby in sight 😉)
• Long-haul night's sleep - airlines often provide a cot bed, which can hold a 10kg baby
• Baby entertaining
• Have a range of snacky foods ready - under twos enjoy trying different foods
• Babies love to explore - walk the aisles, or let them explore around you. A bit of interaction won't annoy fellow passengers!
• Fussy baby - take an upset baby to the back of the plane where there is more space and air crew are always welcoming to a baby. Other parents often gather there too!

Woohoo you've landed and your trip was fine! Now, what did you decide about getting around?

Getting around

There are lots of ways to travel locally - bear in mind where you're going. 

• Car hire with child seats - one of our personal favourites = safe and lots of freedom
• A driver - advisable in a developing country where traffic is chaotic. This is was our choice in Mumbai - we enjoyed the passing sights at the same time
• Public transport - great in a well-connected hub, and your baby will be less restricted
• Taxi - for short distances when you have other transport at your destination. For practical reasons (not safety) licenced taxis/licenced private hire cars are exempt of child-seat laws, but check if they supply them. Otherwise you can hire a car seat or take your own (some strollers come with a maxi cosy attachment)

Exploring on foot

• Stroller - handy for longer city walks and on-the-go napping
• Sling or baby carrier - a sling is useful in lots of situations - at the beach, to access lakes, on rustic paths, hilly surroundings, when using the underground (lifts are often far out), for sightseeing and somewhere with stairs! Plus, babies are usually easily soothed in a carrier 
• Baby scooter (the one with a seat) - a great little city vehicle - small, light and very agile. After a baby's first birthday they will be big enough to go on such a scooter. It's a nice way for a baby to stay active, but they can't fall asleep on it!

Babies are adaptable!

Be prepared to be more flexible with your baby's routine on holiday. Nap-time may have to be shorter/at a different time, or they may have to nap on-the-go if you are out for most of the day. But kids are very adaptable, and when some quiet moments are mixed in with action your baby will be fine.

Let me know where you've travelled to and if you have any tips from your holiday, I would love to hear.